Psalm 69:16-18

Answer me, O Lord, for your steadfast love is good;
    according to your abundant mercy, turn to me.
Do not hide your face from your servant,
    for I am in distress—make haste to answer me.
Draw near to me, redeem me,
    set me free because of my enemies.

The Reverend Dr. Loder is a retired United Methodist minister who served as Senior Pastor for 38 years at Philadelphia, PA’s First United Methodist Church of Germantown (FUMCOG), which became well known around the country for its dynamic worship and preaching as well as its urban involvement and prophetic social action. He was named one of America’s most creative preachers. He has published several books of prayers, sermons and commentary including Guerrillas of Grace and Loaves, Fishes and Leftovers. He has been a preacher and speaker at churches, retreats and conferences around the country.

Draw Me to Yourself – Prayer from Guerillas of Grace

In this moment
draw me to yourself, Lord,
and make me aware
not so much of what I’ve given
as of all I have received
and so have yet to share.

Send me forth
in power and gladness
and with great courage
to live out in the world
what I pray and profess,

that, in sharing,
I may do justice,
make peace,
grow in love,
enjoy myself,
other people,
and your world now,
and you forever. Amen.