Prayer, on the occasion of an SMU Faculty Club Luncheon

with panel discussion about Election Day

Gracious God,

We confess we have forgotten how to pray.

We find it hard to remember how

to ask for much

beyond our own immediate self-interest.

We want to win, or at least hope

our opponents will fail.

We want what we want, oftentimes

at the expense of

the common interest and

the greater good.

But you, O God,

lover of all people

in all places

and all times,

coax us

to care deeply,

to choose compassionately,

to love unreservedly.

We ask, then, that we may

Awaken to our blessings this day:

abundant food,

political freedom,

and gifted colleagues,

with whom we can share

so many good things.

In your mercy,

add to these many graces

the blessing of a grateful heart.

Amen.

–Tim McLemore

October 30, 2014