In July of 2010, Ken Sehested, co-pastor of Circle of Mercy Congregation, wrote a litany, using Zephaniah 3:19; Romans 8:19-24; Psalm 126:5, in honor of the wedding of Annika Williams and Justin Bass. We used it as a Call to Worship in church on their one year anniversary. Even though it was written in celebration of a wedding, it really spoke to me as a brain injury survivor. Here it is:

May you store up patience, for life is not always kind, and you need to persevere. Remember that regret is not the last word.
Despite life’s disregard, the last word is this: One day every cup will overflow.
May you store up affection, for sometimes the heart grows cols, and you need to persevere. Remember that bitterness is not the last word.
Despite every cold-hearted season, the last word is this: One day the sun’s warm embrace will thaw every brittle hand.
May you store up mercy, for life is not always gentle, and you need to persevere. Remember that enmity is not the last word.
Despite life’s brutal stain, the last word is this: One day pardon will trump vengeance.
May you store up forgiveness, for life is not always charitable. Remember that judgment is not the last word.
Despite all cruel reproach, the last word is this: One day grace will have its way.
May you store up hope, for life is not always buoyant, and you need to persevere. Remember that despair is not the last word.
Despite all dismay, the last word is this: One day the meek will inherit the earth.
May you store up faith, for life is not always devout, and you need to persevere. Remember that infidelity is not the last word.
Despite life’s treacherous grip, the last word is this: One day creation itself will shed its decay.
May you store up praise, for life is not always jubilant, and you need to persevere. Remember that lament shall not have the last word.
Despite every mother’s grief, every father’s sorrow, the last word is this: One day those who sow in tears will reap with shouts of joy.

Sometimes I need a reminder that “one day creation itself will shed its decay and one day grace will have it’s way.” In small ways, I’ve seen this happen. Sometimes there are long periods when I dwell on my challenges and it’s hard to see joy in my life. Then I read something like the above litany and I’m reminded that “grace will have it’s way.” Not just tomorrow but even now in the midst of my challenges.

What comes to your mind after reading this litany? Do you see the hand of God in your life? See above right for commenting instructions or contact me directly at