Prayer

Create in Me a Clean Heart

"Create in me a clean heart, O God
And put a new and right spirit within me."
Psalm 51:10

Create in me a clean heart, open and receptive,
so that I may embrace the many ways you choose to visit my life.

Create in me a clean heart,
cleared of the refuse of old battles with others
and destructive opposition with myself.

Create in me a clean heart,
purified through the daily disruptions and the life encounters
that take me beyond my grasping control and self-centeredness.

Create in me a clean heart, freed from the clutter of cultural enticements,
so that I can enjoy the beauty of life’s simple things
and relish the gifts I easily take for granted.

Create in me a clean heart,
bathed free from harsh thoughts, guilt, and perfectionist tendencies,
welcoming others with the embrace of non-judgment.

Create in me a clean heart,
brushed free from frantic busyness,
so that I will have time to dwell with you
in the listening space of solitude and silence.