During a trip to Morocco, I chose to observe the Muslim call to prayer as a spiritual practice. Five times each day, the Muslim tradition of the adhan sounded over loud speakers through the streets of Marrakech, Fez, Casablanca, and Rabat. The haunting call to prayer allowed me to pause and express my requests to The Living God revealed through Jesus Christ.
Prior to my trip, I had copied a prayer that was framed and hanging in my father’s office. I do not know the origin of the prayer. However, following my father’s death, I claimed it and hung the framed prayer in my home office. I offer these phrases to you as a summer ‘call to prayer.’ If you are willing to do so, consider joining me between now and Labor Day reciting phrases from this prayer at least once each day.
Living God,
Grant me honest knowledge of myself, knowledge of my capacities and limitations.
Grant me wisdom that I may profit from my errors.
Grant me humility, that I may admit mistakes and accept them for the sake of others.
Grant me patience that I may avoid rashness.
Grant me insight into the worth of others that I may judge their true value.
Grant me tolerance, that I may realize most mistakes are the penalty of doing.
Grant me responsibility, that I may learn to shoulder the burden of supporting those who initiate action under my supervision.
Grant me ambition, but not greed, that I may deserve my earnings and affirm others for doing the same.
Grant me peace of mind, compassion for other individuals, and a desire to help others.
Grant me the ability to live as an example for others to pattern their lives in selfless service.
Grant me these things, dear Lord, that I may better serve Thee.
Amen.
