If you are a regular reader you will know that I am a fan of Henri Nouwen. This is his personal prayer for Pentecost from Jesus: A Gospel. And strikes a strong resonance with how I feel a lot of the time.
Dear Lord, listen to my prayer. You promised your disciples that you would not leave them alone but would send the Holy Spirit to guide them and lead them to the full Truth.
I feel like I am groping in the dark. I have received much from you;, and still it is hard for me simply to be quiet and present in your presence. My mind is so chaotic, so full of dispersed ideas, plans, memories, and fantasies. I want to be with you and you alone, concentrate on your Word, listen to your voice, and look at you as you reveal yourself to your friends. But even with the best intentions I wander off to less important things and discover that my heart is drawn to my own little worthless treasures.
I cannot pray without the power from on high, the power of your Spirit. Send your Spirit, Lord, so that your Spirit can pray in me, can say “Lord Jesus,” and can call out “Abba, Father.”
I am waiting, Lord, I am expecting, I am hoping. Do not leave me without your Spirit. Give me your unifying and consoling Spirit. Amen.