Dear God, what shall I renounce?

The time I spend in selfish pursuits? The energy I squander planning trivial victories? The poison words I speak as I judge others?

Lord, make my way to right living easy. Make me ready to renounce what keeps me from you.

(Letter #1,602)

Dear God, what is to be my offering? You shower me with grace, undeserved favor and ease, gifts beyond reckoning.

Lord, let my gratitude be a living thing, no mere words. Let it be tangible.

Let me do your will today with a smile of joy. Let love be my working song.

(Letter #1,601)

Dear God, the dawn greets me; what shall I carry with me this day?

Let me leave behind earlier burdens. They are not needed.

The sun shines. Today, let me reflect your light into every corner.

(Letter 1,600)

Dear God, let me draw near to you.

When beset by daily events, when my thoughts are filled with plans and duties, I set these aside only with great difficulty and reluctance. The world crowds you out.

Lord, let me sweep aside all these busy thoughts. Leave a clearing for me, that I may step into your sunshine and rest.

(Letter 1,599)