# Prayer for the sick
*2015-11-16*

> Bill Young reflects on the life of St. Margaret of Scotland and offers a dedicated prayer for those suffering from illness.

## The example of St. Margaret of Scotland

Today is the feast day of St. Margaret of Scotland, known as the Queen of Scotland. Margaret came to Scotland after a shipwreck, where she met the prince who would become the king. She was a remarkably generous and dedicated person. Whenever she encountered the poor, she would wash their feet and give them alms, and she was always known for helping the sick.

Margaret raised six children; two of her sons became kings of Scotland, and one of her daughters married King Henry I of England. Despite her royal status, the central focus of her life was her generosity toward the poor and the sick. We should strive to live like that, always helping those in need.

## Praying for the homebound

Today's prayer is specifically for the sick. I want to dedicate this prayer to two homebound individuals I was able to visit again yesterday, John and Roseanne. We are praying that they are getting better and continue to improve.

## A prayer for healing and surrender

When the following prayer is said, Jesus wishes that the sick person, and also those who pray for him or her, be commended to God:

Oh my God, this sick person comes before you to ask for what he or she desires and considers to be the most important thing for them. God, allow these words to enter his or her heart. It is important to be healthy; and so, Lord, may your holy will be done in him or her in everything. If you want him or her to be healed, may their health be restored. But if it is not your will, may he or she continue to carry his or her cross.

I pray also for us who pray for him or her. Purify our hearts to make us worthy of manifesting your holy mercy in ourselves. Protect him or her and relieve his or her pains. Let your holy will be done in him or her. May your holy name be revealed through him or her. Help him or her carry his or her cross with courage.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

*We are called to follow the example of St. Margaret of Scotland by serving the sick and trusting in God's holy will for their healing and strength.*