Prayer for Aging

All Gracious God, you have given me all I am and have, and now I give it back to you to stand under Your will alone.In a special way I give You these later years of my life.

I am one of those called by You into old age, a call not given to all.not given to Jesus, not given to most in our world today.I humbly ask You, grace me deeply in each aspect of the struggle.

As my physical eyesight weakens,may the eyes of my faith strengthen,that I may see You and Your love in everything.As my hearing fails, my the ears of my heartbe more attentive to the whisper of Your gentle voice,As my legs weaken and walking becomes more difficult,may I walk more truly in Your paths,knowing all the while that I am held in the embrace of your love.As my mind becomes less alert and memory fadesmay I remain peaceful in You,aware that with You there is no need for though or word.You ask simply that I be there, with you.

And should sickness overtake me and I be confines in bed,may I know myself as one with Your Son as he offers his life forthe salvation of the world.

Finally, as my heart shows a little after the work of the years,may it expand in love for You and all people.May it rest secure and grateful in Your loving Heartuntil I am lost in You, completely and forever. Amen.

- Sr. Moya Hanlen