A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is a set of instructions concerning what to do in a given situation which lend themselves to a a given result.  SOP is used in the fields of health care, education, military, industry, etc.

As I was reading Luke 23-24 (ESV), I was struck by Jesus' last words on the cross ("Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!" Luke 23:46) as useful SOP.  Strikingly, these are very similar to some of the last words spoken by Stephen, as he was being stoned to death ("Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." Acts 7:59)  Based on this, one could suggest that these are a wonderful prayer for the close of life.

But as I was thinking of it, it seems to me that these are a very helpful prayer for the start of a day or a project.  "Lord, I into your hands I commit my spirit...as I start this day...as I start this project."  In other words, Lord, may I be directed by you, guided by you, protect by you in what follows.

I using that as part of my morning prayer today.  How about you?

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