Desire for You Pleases You Merton Prayer: Profound Meaning

Thomas Merton, a Trappist monk and spiritual writer, left a lasting legacy through his profound reflections on faith, prayer, and the human soul. Among his most cherished writings is the prayer from Thoughts in Solitude, which includes the deeply moving line: “I believe that the desire to please you does in fact please you.” This phrase, often referred to as the Desire for You Pleases You Merton Prayer, has inspired countless individuals seeking comfort, guidance, and a deeper connection with God. In this article, we will explore the meaning, significance, and impact of this prayer, offering insights into why it continues to resonate with so many.

Who Was Thomas Merton?

Thomas Merton was a 20th-century monk, poet, and author who became one of the most influential spiritual voices of his time. Born in 1915, Merton led a tumultuous early life before finding solace in the Catholic Church. He joined the Abbey of Gethsemani, a Trappist monastery in Kentucky, where he spent much of his life in prayer, writing, and contemplation.

Merton’s works, including The Seven Storey Mountain and New Seeds of Contemplation, explore themes of faith, solitude, and the search for God. His writings are known for their honesty, humility, and universal appeal, making them accessible to people of all faiths and backgrounds.

Context of the Desire for You Pleases You Merton Prayer

The Desire for You Pleases You Merton Prayer comes from Merton’s book Thoughts in Solitude, published in 1956. This prayer reflects Merton’s deep trust in God, even amid uncertainty and doubt. It is a heartfelt expression of his desire to align his will with God’s will, acknowledging that he does not always know the way forward but trusts in divine guidance.

Here is the full text of the prayer:

“My Lord God, I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me. I cannot know for certain where it will end. Nor do I really know myself, and the fact that I think I am following your will does not mean that I am actually doing so. But I believe that the desire to please you does in fact please you. And I hope I have that desire in all that I am doing. I hope that I will never do anything apart from that desire. And I know that if I do this you will lead me by the right road, though I may know nothing about it. Therefore I will trust you always though I may seem to be lost and in the shadow of death. I will not fear, for you are ever with me, and you will never leave me to face my perils alone.”

This prayer has become a source of comfort and inspiration for many, offering a way to navigate life’s uncertainties with faith and trust.

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Meaning of “Desire for You Pleases You”

The phrase “desire for you pleases you” is the heart of Merton’s prayer. It encapsulates a profound spiritual truth: God values our sincere desire to seek Him and do His will, even when we fall short or feel lost.

Merton acknowledges that he does not always understand God’s plan or his own heart. Yet, he finds solace in the belief that his desire to please God is enough. This idea is both comforting and empowering, reminding us that we do not need to have all the answers or be perfect in our faith.

Why This Prayer Resonates with So Many

The Desire for You Pleases You Merton Prayer resonates with people for several reasons:

  1. It Addresses Universal Human Struggles: Everyone experiences doubt, fear, and uncertainty at some point in life. Merton’s prayer speaks directly to these feelings, offering a way to navigate them with faith.
  2. It Emphasizes Trust Over Certainty: In a world that often demands clarity and control, Merton’s prayer reminds us that trust in God is more important than knowing every detail of the journey.
  3. It Celebrates Imperfection: Merton’s humility and honesty about his imperfections make the prayer relatable. It reassures us that God accepts our efforts, even when they are flawed.

How to Apply the Desire for You Pleases You Merton Prayer in Daily Life

Desire for You Pleases You Merton Prayer

The Desire for You Pleases You Merton Prayer is not just a beautiful piece of writing; it is a practical guide for living a faith-filled life. Here are some ways to incorporate its wisdom into your daily routine:

  1. Start Your Day with the Prayer: Begin each morning by reciting Merton’s prayer. Let it set the tone for your day, reminding you to trust in God’s guidance.
  2. Reflect on Your Desires: Take time to examine your heart and intentions. Are your actions motivated by a genuine desire to please God?
  3. Embrace Uncertainty: When faced with difficult decisions or unclear paths, remind yourself that it is okay not to have all the answers. Trust that God will lead you.
  4. Practice Humility: Like Merton, acknowledge your limitations and imperfections. Recognize that your desire to please God is enough.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Thomas Merton?

Thomas Merton was a 20th-century Trappist monk, writer, and theologian known for his contemplative works and interfaith dialogues.

What is the main message of Merton’s prayer?

The prayer emphasizes that even in uncertainty, the sincere desire to align with the divine is pleasing to God.

Why is the phrase “Desire for You Pleases You Merton Prayer” significant?

It underscores the idea that genuine intentions and the yearning to connect with the divine are inherently valued.

How has Merton’s prayer influenced others?

Many, including Fr. James Martin, have found guidance and comfort in the prayer, especially during times of doubt or uncertainty.

Conclusion

The Desire for You Pleases You Merton Prayer is a timeless reminder of the power of faith, trust, and humility. It reassures us that our sincere desire to please God is enough, even when we feel lost or uncertain. By embracing this prayer, we can find peace and guidance in our spiritual journey, knowing that we are never alone.

Whether you are a lifelong believer or someone exploring faith for the first time, Merton’s words offer a profound and accessible way to connect with the divine. Let this prayer inspire you to trust in God’s plan and live with a heart full of desire for Him.

By understanding and applying the Desire for You Pleases You Merton Prayer, we can deepen our spiritual lives and find comfort in the knowledge that our efforts, no matter how small, are valued by God.

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