Help Me To Be

I’ve spent the last two weeks in Minneapolis as part of the intensive portion for two of my classes in Bethel Seminary’s InMinistry Program. It’s been hard; it’s been challenging; it’s been amazing.

This past week has been dominated by my Intro to Pastoral Care class. I had low expectations going in, but the class has been transformative. I’m still trying to process everything, and I wrote this prayer as part of trying to make sense of all my emotions from the week.

I resonated deeply with the role of the chaplain and their ministry of presence. While I’m not sure what that means vocationally, I think the ideals of their ministry are things I want to cultivate in my own life. This prayer is about asking God to be that presence – though it is a quiet presence, it is still revolutionary.

Help Me To Be
When the chaos of the world swirls around me
Help me to stand
When the arrows of spite and rage pierce my flesh
Help me to stand
When the stars are dark and the night is long
Help me to stand
When death captures the day and life is in retreat
Help me to stand

When you bring form to the mist over the deep
Help me to move
When your love heals my mortal wounds
Help me to move
When you shine forth as the bright morning star
Help me to move
When you rise victorious over eternal death
Help me to move

You are the sculptor
You are the healer
You are the morning
You are life itself

In the midst of your quiet revolution
Help me to be your presence in this world

Lord, in your mercy
Hear my prayer