Morning Prayer 2022 Day 51
Forgiving God,
When I look back at my past, I can feel like Joseph’s brothers - ashamed or worried someone might not forgive me. I can see the places where I chose wrong, the places where I thought I knew better for myself. The places where I hurt others for selfish reasons or to cause them some semblance of the pain or hurt I was feeling myself even if they didn’t cause the hurt.
With some of those decisions, I have been able to reconcile within myself, but others linger like sirens in the distance. I can’t shake them. I wonder if they are coming my way. Like Joseph’s brothers, I wonder when those I’ve hurt will stand in front of me and how they will choose to treat me.
And Lord, while these feelings are real, there are also those in my life who wait for me to stand before them. How I respond in those moments will be my new choice.
The prisons of resentment, shame, and worry keep me from hearing your messages of grace. I pause this morning to focus on Joseph who was able to reimagine his broken relationships and use them to serve you and your hungry people. You freed Joseph from slavery and the prisons he could have rightfully built in his heart to protect himself from his brothers. When I read Joseph’s words, I long for that peace and freedom. Grant me the calm to hear your grace and free me from the prisons I create for myself. Set me free, Lord.
Amen
Today’s Daily Scripture Reading
Daily Scripture readings are adapted from the upcoming readings as outlined by the Revised Common Lectionary. They reflect the New Revised Standard Version.
