franciscan benediction

I didn't get to go for the entire Friends in Conversation: A Quiet Revolution of Hope last weekend due to YF and worship commitments, but I did manage to at least make it for the open Saturday night session. That night, Brian McLaren spoke on Discipleship, and more specifically about spiritual formation. Many good thoughts flowed freely, especially during the conversation between McLaren, Tan Soo-Inn, Dr Alex Tang and Dr Voon Choon King, with Sivin Kit facilitating. Will try to post more on my thoughts later but until then, I'll leave you with this benediction that was read at the close of the meeting.

It simply blew me away.

*****

May God bless you with discomfort
at easy answers, half truths, and superficial relationships...

...so that you may live deep within your heart.

May God bless you with anger
at injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people...

...so that you may work for justice, freedom, and peace.

May God bless you with tears
to shed for those who suffer from pain, rejection, starvation, and war...

... so that you may reach out your hand
to comfort them and to turn their pain into joy.

And may God bless you with enough foolishness
to believe that you can make a difference in this world...

... so that you can do what others claim cannot be done.