Liturgy for the Day of a Counseling Session

I submitted this liturgy to be considered for the third volume of Every Moment Holy: The Work of the People. Since it was not chosen to be part of the book, I thought I would simply share it here. Maybe it’s more of a prayer than a liturgy; either way please feel free to use it as you wish. ~Heather

Merciful Father, as I bring my self to another for help

            Would you show yourself through

            Their eyes,

            Their smile, and

            Their attentiveness

            To my shadowed and fragile places?

I am fearful to be known,

            And yearning all the same.

My heart whispers the plea, “Come closer.”

Yet not too close, as

What you see might be too much.

            Or not enough.

                        Or ugly.

                                    Or fake smiles with tears that burn to speak.

Redeemer Jesus, would you breathe your

            Life-giving breath over my soul?

            Remind me that I can feel safety

            In the presence of another.

May I also find safety in your all-seeing witness of my life.

Sweet Spirit, illuminate the path for today’s encounter,

That I would not leave
Untouched,

            Unseen, nor

            Unheard.

Move me toward wholeness.

Allow me to see myself.

            Let me not puff up,

            Nor shrink down.

Let my lines be true, as you, the Master Builder, bring me

            Into full and right alignment.

In my quest for growth, may I

Never jump further, than I can be caught,

Or dismiss my humanity

For the prize of perfection.

Bring light to the path ahead.

Give me the courage - your courage -

            To honor my dignity as

            A bearer of your Image…

                        One in whom you delight.

Help me remember who I am

            And who you are.

Have your way.

Amen, and amen.