Evening Prayer – 23 May 2021
The sun has set and the Vesper Lights flicker and glow
On Pentecost the Spirit equipped the disciples
On Pentecost the church continues to be challenged
Spirit bring us a fresh, new perspective on selfless discipleship
Help us to live into the command of Jesus
Help us to be loving
Help us to think beyond ourselves
Help us to consider the most vulnerable first
Help us to love You and one another
After all, in the words of Thomas Merton—Love is everything**
Now as my eyelids grow heavy
I lift this humble prayer to you
Dona Nobis Pacem
Grant Us Peace
A wee prayer from the heart of your Padre…
**Audio recording of Thomas Merton from the film, Day of a Stranger, directed by Cassidy Hall — https://www.wmm.com/sponsored-project/day-of-a-stranger/
Thanks for including a link to the video, Michael. I watched the preview and was happily surprised to hear Blues music, by Jimmy Smith, playing during the last recording of it. It never occurred to me that a monk would be listening to the Blues and it makes me understand why you speak of Merton as you do- as a friend; he might have been a monk, but he remained in touch with the world. It makes him seem approachable to me.
Merton enjoyed the blues, jazz, and bourbon! He also had a connection with Bob Dylan through their mutual friend, Joan Baez. Joan was able to visit Merton at Gethesemani but there was never an opportunity for him to meet Dylan.
Cassidy Hall has also become a friend through the wonders of blogging, the Merton Society, and a mutual friend.