Retreat Prayer

A few people who attended the retreat I led have asked for a copy of a prayer I used.  It is written in the Celtic tradition by David Adam.  With simplicity and directness it asks God's help for all our senses to be alive to him.  Prayed slowly I have found it truly opens me up to sensing the world more clearly but, deeper than that, who God is now.

Give to me O God

A clear and watchful eye

Give to me O God

A firm but gentle touch

Give to me O God
              A good receptive ear

Give to me O God

A clean discerning taste

Give to me O God

A subtle sense of smell

Give to me O God
              An openness to others

Give to me O God
              An awareness now of you

Give to me O God

Each thing that is needful for my body

Give to me O God

That which will renew my mind

Give to me O God

That which will strengthen my spirit

Give to me O God

Healing for my sickness

Give to me O God

Repentance for my sin

Give to me O God

Yourself above all else