Lex orandi lex credendi is a principle that was established early in the Christian tradition. The succinct Latin can be literally rendered in English as, “the law of what is to be prayed is the law of what is to be believed.” It suggests that what we discover to be true in prayer and worship shapes what we believe and the way we live.
The start of a new year, indeed a new decade, prompts deep thoughts about the purpose and direction of our lives. Good time for a prayer!
It prompts me to return to a prayer that was composed and adopted at the World Council of Churches World Mission conference held at Arusha, Tanzania, in March 2018. I hope I can pray this prayer at the start of 2020 and let it shape my belief and my life.
Loving God, we thank you for the gift of life in all its diversity and beauty. Lord Jesus Christ, crucified and risen, we praise you that you came to find the lost, to free the oppressed, to heal the sick, and to convert the self-centred. Holy Spirit, we rejoice that you breathe in the life of the world and are poured out into our hearts. As we live in the Spirit, may we also walk in the Spirit. Grant us faith and courage to deny ourselves, take up our cross and follow Jesus: becoming pilgrims of justice and peace in our time. For the blessing of your people, the sustaining of the earth, and the glory of your name. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.
Thinking Mission Blog 