Invocation

by Philip D. Anderson

Father of all — Jew, Gentile, Muslim, and Shintoist,
we hallow your name.

May your heaven come into our lives on earth
as we seek to love our brothers with actions
inspired by your son —
our example,
our guide,
our teacher,
our Saviour

We have each day more than plenty —
of bread,
of shelter,
of clothing,
of security
And for these we do give you our thanks.

But give us, Lord,
more generosity of spirit,
more understanding,
more compassion
For the multitudes of our brothers and sisters
near and far

Who live daily in despair — because of
loneliness,
hunger,
illness,
grief,
or because of
man’s inhumanity to man

Do not let us yield to the temptations of
selfishness,
greed,
power,
and complacency.
Deliver us from these evils.

Bless this cup and bread,
our fellowship together
and our brother, Doug,
as he shares with us
some insights from your servant, Kagawa

For it is your kingdom, your power, and your
glory that we celebrate — now and forever.

Amen

Prayer offered by Philip D. Anderson at a breakfast gathering dedicated to readings from the Japanese poet, Kagawa, read by Douglas Cederleaf. — Ed.