There is no turning aside the water, as it flows from high to low lands. The wind will not be beat back by the mightiest oak. I may shade my eyes, but bright sun shines down nonetheless.

There is no stopping your grace, Lord. I may run from your plans for me out of fear, or hide in my rooms out of indolence. Yet still, your ways meet my ways and upend them with abrupt providence.

If I am to follow your will whether I try or not, Lord, let me pursue it. Let me choose the world I already am in. Let me unclench my jaw, sigh, and receive your grace.

(Letter #2,721)

Deep darkness. A candle lit on a mantle.

Can the darkness beat back the light? Does the candle struggle to overcome pitch black?

Light shines and shines, regardless of the gloom. From far off across a meadow, a candle in the window is seen by a weary night traveler.

My heart contains a candle, let it be seen by the ones who need.

(Letter #2,720)

Yesterday’s worry made me ready for new challenges today. Let this day be equally a treasure, preparing me for tomorrow.

Sun shines, heart quickens. I will sing your song today, even as trial greets me at the door when I leave my dwelling.

Thy will be done.

(Letter #2,719)

Today let me speak softly, let my actions be not ostentatious.

Guide me into small duties, Lord. A quiet voice, a pair of helpful hands, a strong back for simple labor. A faithful servitude.

Let me be yours.

(Letter #2,718)

Mist settled over the meadow; dawn dew on the grass. My view of the path is obscured.

Is this today’s gift, Lord? To see only a few feet ahead in this peaceful vale?

Harsh noon light may burn away the fog. Let me carry the morning’s peace throughout the day’s march.

(Letter #2,717)

The things I face are beyond my power to change, for they rest in the hearts and actions of others. Let me therefore turn myself utterly to you, Lord. Ancient miracles are still at work in the world.

Turn the hearts of my opponents. Heal the thoughts of my loved ones. Set my feet on the correct path. Each a small miracle, easily unnoticed.

Rain down miracles upon us, Lord.

(Letter #2,716)

Roads and paths are crooked where once they were straight.

Is it my role to ease the landscape? Who could do such a large thing?

Lord, as I walk these twisted ways, let me cheer the ones I encounter. Keep me unspotted, my dear friend.

(Letter #2,715)

I come to you, Lord, seeking relief, yet you offer bounty of myriad sorts.

Face I trial? You are my defender.

Face I penury? You provide.

Face I woe? You are a balm.

Face I enemies? You upend the field of battle.

Never do I expect the form your gifts do take. Let me live in happy expectation of sweet rescue.

Let me live in expectation of your peace.

(Letter #2,714)

I was clay, unformed, before you gave me shape. Would I be human or beast? Unwrit potential.

This day dawns unformed and I have yet even to feel. What shall my attitude be toward your creation, Lord?

You prepare a table for me, laden heavy with providence, in the presence of my enemy and friend alike.

How could this be other than a day of joy? Let my heart come alive.

(Letter #2,713)

I was made for this day; you made this day for me.

In fear and weakness, I am enough. In doubt, I am enough. You supply all I need for this day you have made.

This grace showered around me, heaps of living treasure, all already placed at the ready. You went before, prepared the way.

Open my eyes, Lord, that I may cease grumbling. This is the day you made for me; I am the one you made for this day.

(Letter #2,712)