A Kitchen Prayer

A few years ago I paid 25 cents for this little framed prayer at a garage sale. It is hanging beside my kitchen sink so I can read it often and be reminded of the truth of the words.

This morning while reading one of my favorite blogs, Sparrow's Nest, Mrs. Wilt's words here reminded me again of this prayer. At times it's so easy to feel overwhelmed or complain about the routine work we have to do in our homes -- until we stop and realize how we are blessed and that we can bless our families and guests who visit us there.

The Kitchen Prayer

Lord of all pots and pans and things, since I've not time to be

A saint by doing lovely things or watching late with Thee

Or dreaming in the dawn light or storming Heaven's gates

Make me a saint by getting meals and washing up the plates.

Although I must have Martha's hands, I have a Mary mind

And when I black the boots and shoes, Thy sandals, Lord, I find.

I think of how they trod the earth, what time I scrub the floor

Accept this meditation Lord, I haven't time for more.

Warm all the kitchen with Thy love, and light it with Thy peace

Forgive me all my worrying and make my grumbling cease.

Thou who didst love to give men food, in room or by the sea

Accept this service that I do, I do it unto Thee.

~Klara Munkres~

And I am reminded of the words of Jesus when He said, "Whatever you do for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you do for me." Lord, as I work in my home and care for my family help me always remember that I am doing it for You.