A liturgy for encountering unexpected changes.
Father, I am unsettled and frustrated
By such unexpected inconveniences
As changes in time,
Or date, or place, policy, or quantity…
As You know,
“Plans can’t keep up with changes,”
Is often the mantra here,
For good reason,
So help me to be flexible,
Not rigid
Because of fear
Or weariness that brittles my response.
Undo my desire for control…
Of what is new,
Or at least different than expected.
Speak peace
As plans are changed, again.
My routines,
Our plans,
Are not so sacred
That they can be desecrated.
So open my hands, heart and mind
To move and change,
Forgive,
And trust...
For You are ultimately in control
Of my going out and coming in,
My class schedule
And holiday make-up days,
My residence permit,
Store shelves,
Closures,
Or that bank trip with multiplied paperwork and proofs needed.
Help me to see the secretary or student in the midst,
Help me to greet and treat
The messenger that bears the news of change,
Not as an obstacle, annoyance, or enemy,
But as a soul, under authority,
As I am.
Teach me and change me
So that I become a teacher
Able to adjust lesson plans, calendars,
Mindset and moods
Without grudges
Or grimacing,
Trusting that Your outcomes
Are ultimately for my good
And Your glory.
Amen.
