I was interested to learn today that St Richard of Chichester, who served as Bishop of Chichester for 8 years in the mid-13th century and was later canonized in 1262 by Pope Urban IV, wrote a prayer that ended up being adapted for use in the musical Godspell.
Thanks be to Thee, my Lord Jesus Christ
For all the benefits Thou hast given me,
For all the pains and insults Thou hast borne for me.
O most merciful Redeemer, friend and brother,
May I know Thee more clearly,
Love Thee more dearly,
Follow Thee more nearly,
Day by day.
The bishop's life and ministry was characterized by hard work and suffering, including a two-year period living as an outcast of his own diocese following his election as bishop until King Henry III accepted his appointment by the Pope. Likewise, his 'down to earth' prayer reflects the daily commitment and 'stickability' required by all who seek to be true followers of Jesus.
The prayer acknowledges too, that Christians don't become saints overnight! Christlikeness is a gradual process of re-orientating our lives into God's will and way by ...knowing more clearly... loving more dearly ... and following more nearly... day by day.
So be encouraged, for through Christ, we are all saints in the making!
