Lord, hear our prayer:

Father, we thank you, not simply for making us, but for giving us life; for the sheer joy of being alive; for the pleasure of real friendship and for the opportunities to enjoy your wonderful creation. We praise you that you have so made us that we can find renewal and satisfaction and a sense of completeness, not only in the world around us, but also in the love with which you have filled our lives. We thank you, not only for making us, but for making us your special people. You have done this, not because we are worthy, but because we must bear a special responsibility. Thank you for giving us a world to care for; for other people whose needs are our opportunities to show your love and kindness; for helping us to see even the hard times and the times of difficulty as opportunities to rediscover your strength and power. We praise you for the faith with which you have filled our lives; for the growing certainty that you will never fail us; that your peace, love and mercy are the things that really matter. Thank you for Jesus Christ, through whom we are made your special possession.

Amen.

Some minor adaptation on some prayers.
David Clowes, 500 Prayers For All Occasions © 2003 by David C Cook Publishing
Used by permission. All rights reserved.