Prayer for Joy

Lord, fill me with joy
Whatever the circumstance.
Grace me with patience
On all occasions.
Make me quick to listen
And slow to speak.
Keep me from becoming angry.
May love and kindness
Be my first response.
May I be known for my love.
May I be known for my joy.
May my life be a light,
A flame burning bright
That draws others to you.
Burn away my depravity.
Refine what is good in me.
When trials come,
Give me the grace
To see them as gifts
From your hand.
What a crazy statement.
Why should I love difficulty?
Why wouldn't I run
From pain, annoyance, and spite?
Because you didn't.
You don't.
You teach me
That the greatest blessing
Comes from staying.
A dangerous thought.
Controversial.
What about me?
Should I stay to be hurt?
Yet you whisper,
"Stay.
There is more to life
Than self-preservation."
I am stronger with you
Standing firm
In the face of adversity
Than I ever could be
In running away.
So give me joy
In difficult moments.
Give me deep breaths
And peace.
And I will find you there.