New Doors

Every day I see again
that only you can teach me to pray,
only you can set my heart at rest.
Only you can let me dwell in your presence.

No book, no concept or theory
will ever bring me close to you
unless you yourself are the one
who lets them become the doors to you.

But Lord, let me at least remain open
to your initiative.
Let me wait patiently and attentively
for the hour when you will come
and break through the walls I have erected.

Create new doors.
Teach me, O Lord, to pray.

Amen.

(A prayer of Henri Nouwen)

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