grace last saturday played with the metaphor of an iceberg where a large proportion of it is not visible, is below the waterline. it was a simple service but really profound too. the prayers and liturgy have been added to the grace website here. we explored ideas of what is hidden and visible in relation to the grace community, faith and god.
steve collins wrote a final prayer riffing on one by mark berry. i am making this whole exploration a worship trick – no 67 in series 4
welcome
to what you cannot see
to what you cannot control
to what you cannot put numbers to
to what you cannot ignore
to what you cannot hide fromit welcomes you
welcome
the surface is open
the sea has room
the food is plentiful
the water is cool
the company is warm
the rest is undisturbed
the shelter is totalthey welcome you
welcome
the welcome is universal
the entrance is free
the invitation is open
the hand is extended
there is no time limit
the time is nowthey welcome you
welcome
to hidden generosity
to gentle undercurrents
to subtle nourishment
to unspoken prayer
to inarticulate longingwe welcome you
welcome
to actions beyond words
to help without asking
to provision without measure
to hospitality without price
to risk without fearthey welcome you
welcome
take hold of the unknown
accept the unconditional
let go of limitation
give up the guidebook
trust what you cannot questiongod welcomes you
welcome
whether you deserve it or not
whether you think you deserve it or not
all are welcome
you are welcome
they welcome you to their mystery
their depth from which all creation springs
come and swim with themthey welcome you
the father that only the son has seen
the word that no-one recognised
the spirit that intercedes without wordsthey welcome you
world without end
amen