There is a treasury of prayers that have shaped the Church across the centuries. Some readers may object to a printed prayer because they want prayer to be alive, spontaneous and personal. However, consider that lines from movies, poems, or plays can be intensely moving and serve as models for daily life. I believe a written prayer is nothing to be avoided. It is a gift from believers who have gone before us. Here is a prayer that Christians have turned to for centuries: 

The General Thanksgiving 

Almighty God, Father of all mercies, we your unworthy servants give you humble thanks 

for all your goodness and loving-kindness to us and to all whom you have made.

We bless you for our creation, preservation, and all the blessings of this life; but above all for your immeasurable love in the redemption of the world by our Lord Jesus Christ; for the means of grace, and for the hope of glory. 

And, we pray, give us such an awareness of your mercies, that with truly thankful hearts we may show forth your praise, 

not only with our lips, but in our lives, by giving up ourselves to your service, and by walking before you in holiness and righteousness all our days; 

through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory throughout all ages. Amen.

Notice the opening phrase of humility. It goes on to be a comprehensive offering rising through creation, redemption, and hope. It then turns toward our transformation that we live- “giving up ourselves to your service”. Its language is concise and when my mind feels scattered, weary, or unsure, these age-old words give me a way to communicate, knowing I am not praying alone, but with those witnesses who have gone before me.  

Pray the General Thanksgiving along with your personal prayer this week. 🙏