Never Alone

Thomas Merton (1915-1968) was a Trappist monk and Christian mystic who published more than 50 books in just over 25 years. A student of comparative religion, Merton was known for his emphasis on social justice and a kind of quiet pacifism, seeking God's presence in both his mystic practices and his conversations with leaders of other faith traditions.

Born in Prades, France, to a New Zealand painter father and an American Quaker artist mother, Merton was baptised in the Church of England as an infant shortly before moving to the United States. While growing up in New York, Merton continually sought refuge in contemplative prayer and other practices, and his writings that emerged were hugely influential. In 1947, Merton took his vows to live the remainder of his life in a monastery.

When you have a quiet moment, read Merton's prayer from his 1956 publication Thoughts in Solitude:

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 the desire to please you
does in fact please you.
And I hope 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.

Amen.

What words would you add as you seek a deeper connection with the Lord this week?

Peace on your week,

Jennie