While sitting at Starbucks writing a prayer,
a toddler walked in with his mom.
He was clearly excited and happy to be there:
his eyes beamed excitement,
his smile was wide
and his toddle was more like a trot…
He surveyed those around as if bursting to tell us,
« I waited and waited and finally we’re here
and my mom’s going to buy me a cake pop! »
strawberry pink with sprinkles!
And just for a moment, in this boy’s life
peace and joy, with amazing grace,
ruled his world, his heart and his life…
……………………………………………………………………..
Surely I knew such moments, Lord,
simple joys in simpler times,
when the smallest surprises would fill my day
with happiness, memories and love…
Most of those memories are lost now, Lord,
though I do still remember a few
but oh, how I wish I could find them all
and return to a time when peace and joy
ruled my world, my life and my heart…
Though my eyes are now wary,
my smile more cautious
and my steps take a tentative pace
I still wait and wait for little surprises:
a hug, a kind word, an email, a call,
a visit with friends and memories shared,
a photo or trinket reminding me now
of simpler times and the peace and joy
that once ruled my world, my life and my heart…
I’m no longer a child but still I wait
for surprises – new found or remembered;
so open my eyes, Lord, to any way
your amazing grace might just be poised
to surprise me with peace and reign with joy
in my world, in my heart, in my life…
Protect me, Lord, while I’m awake
and watch over me while I sleep
that awake, I might keep watch with you
and asleep, rest in your peace…