It is too easy, God

for faith to become an escape

– a way to avoid the pain of being human and alive;

or a path to success

– a way to persuade the universe to give us the things we want;

or a system of control

– a way to bend others to our will

 

But the faith you offer is different, Jesus,

more dangerous and compelling;

It’s the faith that carries the cross,

that embraces death

and lays itself down for the sake of others;

It’s the only faith that can lead us to resurrection

to life renewed and overflowing.

 

We praise you for this faith, God,

and open our hearts to receive it.

 

Amen.