A lifetime of blessing : benedictions for all the days of your life

Notes: "Compiled by Geoffrey Duncan".; Includes indexes.; "New and original prayers and benedictions from a great variety of writers, drawn from every continent and many cultures, invite us to pause and give thanks for the many ways in which God's presence is made known in our lives. This anthology celebrates countless good gifts that surround us, yet also reminds us that the blessing of God does not equate with material comfort and the rewards of success. . . . . Part One focuses on each stage of human life, from before birth to death and its aftermath. The joys, distractions and anxieties of every phase of our lives become occasions to enter more deeply into the mystery that is the blessing of God. Part Two enlarges our vision of God's presence in creation, in our worship, and through the times and seasons of the year. A final section, Blessings in Disguise, keeps us alert to the God of surprises, waiting to bless us in ways we least expect". -- back cover.; Contents divided into two parts.; Contents: Introduction dated July 2004 / Geoffrey Duncan -- Part One -- Beginnings: Anticipation and Wonder -- Childhood: Exploring Every Day -- Youth: Hold On to Your Dreams and Visions -- Adulthood: Live Within Me -- Midlife: Dancing with Rainbows -- Old Age: Unchanging Love -- Part Two -- Blessings of Creation -- Worship Blessings -- Blessings through the Christian Year -- Blessings in Disguise -- Index of Authors -- Index of Titles -- Acknowledgements and Sources.