Found this somewhere on the blogosphere but have completely forgotten where? Feeling bad about not including the proper link so in a catch-all attempt, ht to EVERY single Youth Ministry blogger :-)
A Franciscan Benediction
May God bless you with discomfort
At easy answers, half-truths, and superficial relationships
So that you may live deep within your heart.
May God bless you with anger
At injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people,
So that you may work for justice, freedom, and peace
May God bless you with tears
To shed for those who suffer pain, rejection, hunger, and war
So that you may reach out your hand to comfort them and
To turn their pain into joy.
And may God bless you with enough foolishness
To believe that you can make a difference in the world,
So that you can do what others claim cannot be done
to bring justice and kindness to our children and the poor.
Amen
Such a powerful benediction.
I came across this a few months back when it was used on a Radio 4 Sunday worship.
Have used it several times as a blessing at the end of a church service and people have found it very challenging. (to the point where they say, "it's not appropriate for church etc- which is always a good sign of something that is touching/disturbing my lot")
I love the bit about having the foolishness to think that we can make a difference!
I read it here first http://paulmorgun.blogspot.com/2007/07/franciscan-benediction.html#comments
Love it
great words