Prayer of Thomas Merton 

   Sometimes I feel lost, like I’m not sure that I am on the right track.  Am I doing God’s will or mine?  Is my life one of devotion to God; one that will cause me to be welcomed into His heavenly kingdom?  Years ago, I found a prayer written by Thomas Merton, a Trappist monk.  It has brought be me peace and encouragement over the years.  I offer it in hopes that it may help you in those times when you also feel lost. 

My Lord God,

I have no idea where I am going.

I do not see the road ahead of me.

I cannot know for certain where it will end.

 

Nor do I really know myself,

and the fact that I think I am following

your will does not mean

that I am actually doing so.

 

But I believe that my desire to please you

does in fact please you.

And I hope that I have that desire

in all that I am doing.

I hope that I will never do anything

apart from that desire.

 

And I know that if I do this

you will lead me by the right road

though I may know nothing about it.

Therefore, will I trust you always

though I may seem to be lost

and in the shadow of death.

 

I will not fear,

for you are ever with me,

and you will never leave me

to face my perils alone.