A Collect for Life Now and in Eternity

Lord God, who promises life to those who come to you, keep us from destroying ourselves in chasing after our own desires. Show us what it requires to gain life both here and in the age to come, and give us strength to give up what we must in order to receive it, through Jesus Christ our Lord, who in life showed us the path to you and the Holy Spirit. Amen. ‘ For what will it profit them if they gain the whole world but forfeit their life? Or what will they give in return for their life?’ – Matthew 16:26