A liturgy for knowing and being known in community.
As my routines settle into place, I thank You for the friendships that will develop and for those that will continue to mature. Community is such a big part of Your heart. May it continue to grow in importance in mine. Father, teach me the balance of seeking a sense of belonging in my city while also being rooted in where my true belonging lies. Co-workers, shop owners, students, neighbors, guards, baristas, waiters, other expats - whoever You have for me, may I welcome them with Your hospitality and peace. Wherever I go, may those around me feel seen, known, and loved.
As I press forward to know and be known by others, guard me from self-protection that has the potential to get between me and those around me. As You were a servant, may I be a servant. As You invited others to share in the joys and difficulties of Your life, help me as I seek to let others in. As You displayed the truest kindness and love, may my hands, feet, words, and expressions display Your heart.
As I press forward to know and be known by others, guard me from seeking to show a perfect version of myself - as I cannot show True Love while creating a mask of flawlessness. Instead of self-protection, may I die to myself daily. As You chose us, may I choose others. Teach me to have healthy boundaries, not leaning too far on the side of solitude nor filling my time in a way that tangles my soul in knots.
As I press forward to know and be known by others, guard me from attempting to build friendships in my own power. As working without Your leading is futile, so too is pouring myself out without Your love. Teach me to be a conduit of Your peace, protection, loyalty, encouragement, and love. And may I never forget the One who goes before me.
As I press forward to know and be known by others, guard me from making assumptions. May I follow You in asking questions. May I listen with attentiveness. May I follow Your example of being willing to stop, to see, to feel, and then and only then to act. May I have the discernment to know when to offer help and when to quietly listen. If I must assume, may I assume the best. If I must confront, may it be done through care. When I don’t know what to say, give me the words. When I can’t seem to connect, help build a bridge.
As I press forward to know and be known by others, may I first rest in the beautiful truth that I myself am seen, known, and loved perfectly and fully by You.
Amen
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