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 148
Praise the Lord from the heavens, praise him in the heights. Praise him, all his angels, praise him, all his host. Praise him, sun and moon, praise him, shining stars. Praise him, highest heavens and the waters above the heavens. Let them praise the name of the Lord. He commanded: they were made. He fixed them for ever, gave a law which shall not pass away. Praise the Lord from the earth, sea creatures and all oceans, fire and hail, snow and mist, stormy winds that obey his word; all mountains and hills, all fruit trees and cedars, beasts, wild and tame, reptiles and birds on the wing; all earth’s kings and peoples, earth’s princes and rulers, young men and maidens, the old men together with children. Let them praise the name of the Lord for he alone is exalted. The splendor of his name reaches beyond heaven and earth. He exalts the strength of his people. He is the praise of all his saints, of the sons of Israel, of the people to whom he comes close.
Reading: From the chapters On Charity by St. Maximus
A charitable mind is not displayed simply in giving money; it is manifested still more by personal service as well as by the communication of God’s word to others. In fact, if a man’s service toward his brothers is genuine and if he really renounces worldly concerns, he is freed from selfish desires. For he now shares in God’s own knowledge and love. Since he does possess God’s love, he does not experience weariness as he follows the Lord his God. Rather, following the prophet Jeremiah, he withstands every type of reproach and hardship without even harboring an evil thought toward any man.
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
Renew and strengthen your Church. Enlighten us, Lord! Keep us faithful to you. Enlighten us, Lord! Open the eyes of those who do not yet know you. Enlighten us, Lord!
Dear Jesus, May we meditate on your will and so draw closer to you. We ask the Father for this in your name in union with the Holy Spirit. Amen.
