Day #37
{There are now a number of prayers focused on sex and intimacy, the most challenging to craft. Ever since St. Augustine abandoned his mistress to become a bishop and decided that sexual desire (‘concupiscence’), even within marriage, was the source of all human ills, as it was the means by which original sin was transmitted to every person, Christian authors have not always been particularly positive about the ways they have approached human sexuality. However, by the 17thCentury, the Book of Common Prayer could at least recommend the physically intimate aspect of marriage because it would lead to the procreation of children, and with the secondary benefit of preventing fornication. The Apostle Paul’s recommendation of the single life has certainly contributed historically to a suspicion that celibacy should be the path chosen by the most dedicated followers of Christ. However, the Bible does not speak with just one voice, and even Paul speaks many words of wisdom to the married. There are also sections of Scripture which are surprisingly erotic – and some which are shockingly explicit. In these prayers I have tried to tread a careful path between unnecessary salaciousness and overly-pious prudery. But you probably didn’t hear too many prayers like these in Sunday School.}
Let your fountain be blessed, and rejoice in the wife of your youth… May her breasts satisfy you at all times; may you be intoxicated always by her love.
Genesis 1:26-28
Father, we pray for marriages, that husbands and wives would find great joy in sexual intimacy. For those in whom the fire has faded, may there be a stirring of the flame. For those who have become bored with what now feels like dutiful routine (to be avoided if at all possible), may the holy magic return! And may satisfactory intoxication abound!
Amen.