A Selfish Prayer for the Lonely

5/4/2017

Jesus, you heal. You did it when you walked this earth. You do it today through your Spirit poured into us mere humans in our brokenness.
Most days I feel lonely, out of touch with others. Yes, some of it is my fault as I shy away from others, as I fear overwhelming them with my strangeness.
But, I’ve been hearing and reading that loneliness has become an epidemic and that people are literally dying from conditions that trace back to a lack of connection. Others have been doing themselves harm being seduced by the lie that they are alone and that no one understands or cares.
Goodness, I at least have someone to talk to every day. I imagine that some don’t, or at least not real conversations with people who are concerned for their well-being. I have a loving family and church, and so many do not. I get daily smiles and hugs. I know that there must be people in my midst that get neither. Show these people to me.
Lord, heal my deafness and blindness to the needs of my neighbors. Help me love them better. Use me as a vessel to heal others hurts. Make me a friend.
Give me eyes to see hurt.
Give me ears to listen.
Give me a ready smile to share instead of being preoccupied with my own concerns.
Give me arms to hold those who are lonely like me.
In your name, I pray, Lord Jesus. Amen.

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