Chapter Fourteen: Exquisite ~ Alan Davey
CHAPTER FOURTEEN: EXQUISITE
Abba, we marvel at your infinite love expressed in your solidarity with us. We are humbled and grateful that you enter into our human poverty through your Son Jesus Christ. Becoming one with us in every capacity, you know the pain of the commonplace, the marginalized, the unheroic everyday experience of the average person – all without self-pity or self-centeredness.
We are amazed that you did not pass us by in our brokenness, frailty and anger. Instead, you stopped and called us to your side, even as you invited brother Bartimaeus, to find our rest as beloved children of your Father. You called us by name. Further, you invite us to continually receive, develop and explore our true, authentic selves; you press us to leave behind our false ego-driven selves.
We desire to experience each day as a gift and to be able to live each moment in gratitude, accepting all from your hand as an invitation to know and love you more. Help us, Abba, to respond in compassion to others even as your Son is our constant companion who never passes us by. Enable us to heed the example of the Good Samaritan who gave up his own agenda, convenience and money to come to the assistance of the unknown, broken stranger. Give us eyes to see you in the wounded.
Grant to us, Gracious Creator, trusting hearts that we might surrender ourselves to you completely. Empower us, sweet Jesus, to rise above the human overcast, to not fixate on the exigencies of life but rather to know your consolation, peace and presence that prevail even when the clouds seem interminable. Help us to move forward with confidence and enthusiasm, holding the banner of your love over this day, this experience, this friendship, this travail. Enable us to live in connection with your sacred breath and to experience your exquisite touch.
Amen.
Alan Davey has been the senior pastor of Weston Park Baptist Church for the past 17 years. This is a Toronto inner city church which focuses on the needs of the marginalized as well as celebrating ministries related to worship and the arts. Further, he is an adjunct professor at Tyndale University College teaching in the areas of Christian worship and spiritual formation.