Morning prayer · 16 December

Draw us to you

A small iron nail lying on a workbench with a single magnet beside it, the nail already straining sideways across the wood toward the magnet's pull, with the words “draw us to you” lettered by hand.

Lord Jesus Christ, our merciful and loving rescuer, you carried your cross for us. Help us to take up our cross every day and follow you. You were lifted up for us; draw us to you, so that we love you more for your great love for us. Lord, we love you; help us where our love falls short. Father in heaven, help us carry the marks of the Lord Jesus in our bodies by living a pure and holy life. Rescuer of the world, by your cross and your precious blood you’ve set us free. Save us and help us, Lord, we humbly ask, now and always. Amen.

And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw everyone to Myself.”

John 12:32 (BSB)

Adapted from E. M. Goulburn, via A Chain of Prayer Across the Ages (1913), in plain words. The verse is from the Berean Standard Bible (public domain). Drawing: Mutter.