Prayer of an Aging Priest

DEAREST Lord,
teach me to grow
gracefully.
Help me to see that my
community does me no
wrong
when gradually it takes
from me my duties;
when it no longer seem
to seek my views.

Rid me of my pride in all
the “wisdom” I have
learned.
Rid me of the illusion that
I am indispensable.
Help me in this gradual
detachment from
earthly things
to grasp the meaning of
your law of time.

Teach me, in this
turn-over of work and
workers,
to discern a striking
expression of life’s
constant renewal
under the impulse of your providence.

And please, Lord, let me
still be useful,
contributing to the
world my optimism,
adding my prayers to
the joyful fervor and
courage
of those who now take
their turn at the helm.

(To be continued)