A Prayer for Mutuality

This is one of the prayers I had the privilege of contributing to a great book by one of my teachers and friends: Mere Spirituality: The Spiritual Life According to Henri Nouwen, by Wil Hernandez.

From Chapter Five: Mutuality

Ever-loving Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,

The more I find my sisters, brothers, and myself in you, the more you teach me both to give and receive generously. Show me what is at the root of my unloving habits of critiquing people before I know them, of attempting to put myself above them in some way. Replace that in me with your way of selflessly being the one to wash others' feet as well as wholeheartedly receiving the gifts of others. Free me from my need so that I no longer seek to find ways to defend myself against the needs of others. Show me someone you have put into my life as a gift whom I have failed to value, and may we be gracious to one another as we walk further together on this road toward fullness of life in you.

Amen.