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 118:1-9
Give thanks to the Lord for he is good, for his love endures for ever. Let the sons of Israel say: "His love endures for ever." Let the sons of Aaron say: "His love endures for ever." Let those who fear the Lord say: "His love endures for ever." I called to the Lord in my distress; he answered and freed me. The Lord is at my side; I do not fear. What can man do against me? The Lord is at my side as my helper: I shall look down on my foes. It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in men: it is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in princes.
Reading: From a sermon by St. Augustine
You will take no delight in burnt offerings, David says. If you will not take delight in burnt offerings, will you remain without sacrifice? Not at all. A sacrifice to God is a contrite spirit; God does not despise a contrite and humble heart. You now have the offering you are to make. No need to examine the herd, no need to outfit ships and travel to the most remote provinces in search of incense. Search within your heart for what is pleasing to God. Your heart must be crushed. Are you afraid that it might perish so? You have the reply: Create a clean heart in me, O God. For a clean heart to be created, the unclean one must be crushed. We should be displeased with ourselves when we commit sin, for sin is displeasing to God. Sinful though we are, let us at least be like God in this, that we are displeased at what displeases him. In some measure then you will be in harmony with God’s will, because you find displeasing in yourself what is abhorrent to your Creator.
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
Send laborers to work in your vineyard. Give us your peace, Lord! Be with those who are suffering. Give us your peace, Lord! Show us the way we should walk. Give us your peace, Lord!
Dear Jesus, May we work faithfully for you and spread your name throughout the world. We ask the Father for this in your name in union with the Holy Spirit. Amen.
