| Contribute a translation | Source (English) |
|---|---|
|
|
For courage.
|
|
|
Ⅰ.
I give thanks unto Thee for the sacred task to which Thou hast called me, as a member of Thy people Israel, and I humbly beseech Thee to help me to fulfil my holy mission. May I at all times and in every circumstance remember that I am Thy messenger, Thy servant in whom Thou trusteth. Instil into me the steadfast courage with which Thou didst inspire my ancestors throughout all their afflictions, and the strength to do my duty manfully and cheerfully. Breathe into me the desire to show mercy and charity to my fellowmen, so that I may be worthy of the name I bear. Blessed art Thou, O Lord, the God, of Israel, the Father of all mankind. Amen. |
|
|
Ⅱ.
Thou alone knowest my difficulties and my temptations. If, when at work or when at leisure, when with my comrades or when alone, I ever feel mean and wretched and disheartened, and the thought of Thee fades from my memory, and I forget the great task which Thou hast given unto me and unto all Israel Thy children, then do Thou, O God of my fathers, make Thy presence felt unto me, so that I may realise Thy holiness. Fortified by the knowledge of Thee, may I strive to serve Thee better, and to be more worthy of the love which Thou hast ever shown unto me and unto all Thy people Israel. Amen. |
|
|
Ⅲ.
If my strength should fail me, if I should fall into temptation, do Thou make Thy presence felt unto me and give me courage to arise and do Thy bidding. At this hour every thought of mine, and every wish, is directed towards Thee, and Thou, all-knowing and all-seeing God, understandest my weaknesses and hast pity on me. Thou wilt give me strength to serve Thee. O Lord, help me to testify in my life to the love that I bear Thee. Amen. |
|
|
Ⅳ.
When I am surrounded by dangers and fear, then let me say with perfect faith: “Into Thy Hand, O Lord, I commend my spirit; Thou art with me, I cannot fear.” But when temptations come upon me and I feel weak and lonely, then let me cry with all my might: “O Father, make Thy presence felt unto me, and give me strength.” When I have failed in my tasks, knowing that I have not done my utmost, then let me pray: “O God of mercy, forgive me, and create in me a desire to begin afresh and the strength to persevere.” But when I have done what I know to be right, then let me behold the beauty of the Lord, and say: “Father, Thou hast rewarded me with the light of Thy countenance. No matter what may befall me, I am at peace and with Thee.” Blessed art Thou, O Lord, my Strength and my Redeemer. Amen. |
Basil L.Q. Henriques’s prayers “For Courage” were first published in The Fratres Book of Prayer for the Oxford and St. George’s Synagogue Jewish Lads Club in 1916, and later reprinted in the Prayer Book of the St. George’s Settlement Synagogue (1929), “Special Prayers” section, pages 91-92.
Source(s)
