Prayer: Thomas a Kempis

Friday, March 12th, 2010 | Lent Meditations, Spiritual Disciplines

Thomas a Kempis (1380-1471) was a writer and monk who penned a famous book on Christian discipleship entitled The Imitation of Christ. The prayer of surrender below is from that book.

Lord, You know what is best; let this be done or that be done as You please. Give what You will, as much as You will, when You will. Do with me as You know best, as will most please You, and will be for Your greater honor. Place me where You will and deal with me freely in all things. I am in Your hand; turn me about whichever way You will. Behold, I am Your servant, ready to obey in all things. Not for myself do I desire to live, but for You – would that I could do this worthily and perfectly!

Give us, O Lord, steadfast hearts that cannot be dragged down by false loves; give us courageous hearts that cannot be worn down by trouble; give us righteous hearts that cannot be sidetracked by unholy or unworthy goals. Give to us also, our Lord and God, understanding to know you, diligence to look for you, wisdom to recognize you, and a faithfulness that will bring us to see you face to face.
Amen.

Tags: Lent 2010, Prayer