Just as day declines to evening, so often my heart declines into depression. Everything seems dull, every action feels like a burden. If anyone speaks, I scarcely listen. If anyone knocks, I scarcely hear. My heart is as hard as flint.

Then I go out into the field to meditate, to read the holy Scriptures, and I write down my deepest thoughts in a letter to you. And suddenly your grace, dear Jesus, shatters the darkness with daylight, lifts the burden, relieves the tension. Soon tears follow sighs, and heavenly joy floods over me with the tears.

(Aelred of Rievaulx 1110 - 1167)

Korah, a woman I know, had visited her family in a distant city. It had not been a happy experience. Some family members were jealous of her prosperity, and hurt her with their cruel remarks. On her flight home, she could not stop crying. With a sad heart, she turned to the Lord in prayer. Her words were, "Lord, if they are not going to change, please change me."

Within seconds, Korah experienced a great sense of relief. A quiet peace flooded her heart. Korah continues to take all her troubles to the Lord, and He never fails to answer her prayers.

Lord, take away my indifference

Lord, take away my indifference and
insensitivity to the plight of the poor.
When I meet you hungry, thirsty
or as a stranger,
show how I can give you food
or quench your thirst
or receive you in my home —
and in my heart.

(Mother Teresa)


Return from Depression to A Prayer Book

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