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 21
O Lord, your strength gives joy to the king; how your saving help makes him glad! You have granted him his heart’s desire; you have not refused the prayer of his lips. You came to meet him with the blessings of success, you have set on his head a crown of pure gold. He asked you for life and this you have given, days that will last from age to age. Your saving help has given him glory. You have laid upon him majesty and splendor, you have granted your blessings to him for ever. You have made him rejoice with the joy of your presence. The king has put his trust in the Lord: through the mercy of the Most High he shall stand firm. O Lord, arise in your strength, we shall sing and praise your power
Reading: Jeremiah 1:4-10
The word of the Lord came to me thus: Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I dedicated you, a prophet to the nations I appointed you. “Ah, Lord God!” I said, “I know not how to speak; I am too young.” But the Lord answered me, Say not, “I am too young.” To whomever I send you, you shall go; whatever I command you, you shall speak. Have no fear before them, because I am with you to deliver you, says the Lord. Then the Lord extended his hand and touched my mouth, saying, See, I place my words in your mouth! This day I set you over nations and over kingdoms, To root up and to tear down, to destroy and to demolish, to build and to plant.
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
May we announce your coming to the world. O Lord, show us your mercy! Help us to be true heralds of your truth. O Lord, show us your mercy! Help us to do your will. O Lord, show us your mercy!
Dear Father, You raised up St. John the Baptist to prepare the way for your Son. May we work to spread the good news of the Gospel throughout the world. We ask this through Jesus, your Son, in union with the Holy Spirit. Amen.
