Lord of the pots and pans and things,
since I've no time to be
a saint by doing lovely things,
or watching late with thee,
or dreaming in the dawnlight,
or storming heaven's gates...
make me a saint by getting meals
and washing up the plates.
Thou who didst love to give men food
in room or by the sea,
accept this service that I do--
I do it unto thee.
~Anonymous
3 comments:
Aimee -- This prayer to the "Lord of all the pots and pans" was written by Brother Lawrence in the 1600's. Brother Lawrence was a 17th century monk of very humble beginnings. He discovered the art of “practicing the presence of God in one single act that does not end.” He was a monk who did his chores obediently out of a pure love for God. He found that even when, as cook of the monastery, he was elbow-deep in potato peelings, he could converse with God, entreat him, rejoice with a thousand thanksgivings. His soul could be lifted above all earthly things and be held by God. He thought that our actions should unite us with God when we’re involved in our daily activities just as our prayer unites us with God in our quiet time.
“God does not ask much of us. But remembering him, praising him, asking for his grace, offering him your troubles, or thanking him for what he has given you will console you all the time. During your meals, or during any daily duty, lift up your heart to him, because even the least little remembrance will please him. You don’t have to pray out loud. He’s nearer than you can imagine.”
Brother Lawrence directed his whole life to God. This humble man lived Paul’s advice to the Church at Corinth: “So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10)
Have enjoyed reading your blog so much. Thanks for your inspiring photos and words.
Wylie
Thanks so much for giving me the author of this prayer...I LOVE Brother Lawrence and "Practicing the Presence of God" has graced my shelves for about 15 years! I came across this prayer in another book that I was reading by Jill Briscoe and she had labeled this prayer "anonymous".
His little book revolutionized my prayer life from being one limited to "quiet times" to realizing I could commune with Him all the day in the most mundane of tasks. I am so glad to know that He penned this prayer...that makes it all the more special!
This is so beautiful and very moving along with the picture.
Thank you!
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