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 31:20-25
How great is the goodness, Lord, that you keep for those who fear you, that you show to those who trust you in the sight of men. You hide them in the shelter of your presence from the plotting of men: you keep them safe within your tent from disputing tongues. Blessed be the Lord who has shown me the wonders of his love in a fortified city. "I am far removed from your sight," I said in my alarm. Yet you heard the voice of my plea when I cried for help. Love the Lord, all you saints. He guards his faithful but the Lord will repay to the full those who act with pride. Be strong, let your heart take courage, all who hope in the Lord.
Reading: From a sermon by St. Leo the Great
The Lord says: Unless your justice exceeds that of the Scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter into the kingdom of heaven. How indeed can justice exceed, unless compassion rises above judgment? What is as right or as worthy as a creature, fashioned in the image and likeness of God, imitating his Creator who, by the remission of sins, brought about the reparation and sanctification of believers? With strict vengeance removed and the cessation of all punishment, the guilty man was restored to innocence, and the end of wickedness became the beginning of virtue. Can anything be more just than this?
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
We praise you for the gifts of the earth. Thank you, Father! We praise you for the gifts of the day. Thank you, Father! We praise you for the gifts of your love. Thank you, Father!
Dear Father, Guide our thoughts, words, and actions so that we may be your true sons and daughters. We ask this in the name of Jesus who lives with you and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
