Thanksgiving Benediction

Here’s a beautiful benediction from Pastor Joe Sherer.

Benediction

May the Lord bless you and keep you,

May He make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you.

May the broad expanse of God’s love

and the abundance of His riches in glory,

shape your perspective on your own life and needs, 

including those things which disappoint you.

May the eyes of your heart be open

to all the blessings which surround you;

may this awareness produce a harvest of generosity in your spirit.

May thankfulness rise up within you,

not just during this short season,

but day after day,

from the early morning watch until you retire for the night.

May your prayers reflect gratitude,

while also acknowledging the needs of others

whose situations are so drastically different.

May thoughts of Jesus fill your mind,

and hunger for God drive your soul,

and love for Lord guide your speech and your actions. 

And finally, may the grace, peace, and love of the triune God,

protect, defend, and empower you

to run with perseverance the race marked out for you.

Amen.

~ written by Joe Sherer pastor of the Mount Joy Mennonite Church, and posted on A Daily Prayer. http://adailyprayer.wordpress.com/2007/11/16/strangers-in-this-world/