Every day, we will post a few brief prayers inspired by the Liturgy of the Hours.
O Lord, open my lips. And my mouth shall declare your praise.
Psalm 30
I will praise you, Lord, you have rescued me and have not let my enemies rejoice over me. O Lord, I cried to you for help and you, my God, have healed me. O Lord, you have raised my soul from the dead, restored me to life from those who sink into the grave. Sing psalms to the Lord, you who love him, give thanks to his holy name. His anger lasts a moment; his favor all through life. At night there are tears, but joy comes with dawn. I said to myself in my good fortune: “Nothing will ever disturb me.” Your favor had set me on a mountain fastness, then you hid your face and I was put to confusion. To you, Lord, I cried, to my God I made appeal: “What profit would my death be, my going to the grave? Can dust give you praise or proclaim your truth? The Lord listened and had pity. The Lord came to my help. For me you have changed my mourning into dancing, you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy. So my soul sings psalms to you unceasingly. O Lord my God, I will thank you for ever.
Reading: From a Commentary on the Song of Songs by St. Gregory of Nyssa
Where do you pasture your sheep, O Good Shepherd, you who carry on your shoulders the whole flock? For it is but one sheep, this entire human race whom you lift onto your shoulders. Show me the place where there are green pastures, let me know restful waters, lead me out to nourishing grass and call me by name so that I can hear your voice, for I am your own sheep. And through that voice calling me, give me eternal life.
The Canticle of Mary
My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, My spirit rejoices in God, my Savior for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name.
Intercessions
Sanctify our work today. Lord, bring us close to you! Strengthen those who are undergoing trials. Lord, bring us close to you! Make us rejoice in your love for us. Lord, bring us close to you!
Dear Jesus, Cast the darkness of sin out of our hearts with the light of your presence. We ask the Father for this in your name in union with the Holy Spirit. Amen.
