This prayer was previously posted at
http://venerablematttalbotresourcecenter.blogspot.com/2008/11/venerable-matt-talbot-devotional_162.html
Today, we pray with one voice, asking that each of those
suffering from the spiritual death of addiction will be liberated from the bonds
of compulsion and craving; that the hold of these harmful
behaviors will be released forever.
We call to you, Lord Jesus, and to the Power upon whom you called, that like the Prodigal Son, these brothers and sisters, held in the grip of death by addiction, will be able to return to a life free from harmful dependence.
Matt Talbot was led out of the despair of dependence, by living and working in prayerful devotion. He was dedicated to helping others. Through abstinence, prayer, the Sacraments, and reading of the Word, he was saved. Today, we ask that each of the addicted be led out of the shadows and into the light of hope.
With the example of this humble servant, and all the Saints who have struggled and prevailed, we ask that our plea for sobriety be heard, and that the energy needed for recovery will be available to all who seek Your help.
Show us the way out of addiction. Lead us to a new life of Faith. Teach us, through the example of Matt Talbot, to discipline of living addiction free lives.
Send each
of those who suffer from addiction behavior the strength and courage needed to
overcome dependence. Inspire us to seek abstinence and sobriety in our day to
day lives, to live as Matt Talbot lived, by the light of Your Holy Spirit, and
the guidance of Your redeeming grace, as we seek the miracle of recovery.
We ask
this in the name of God, the Most High, Amen.