Father,
You teach me mercy.
You are merciful to me, Lord. You use my relationships to teach me the gentle lessons of mercy's generous gifts. You use my circumstances to teach me to live a merciful life. But even now, my nature cries out for revenge rather than love and compassion. Give me a new heart -- one that is willing to carry the burdens of others, giving mercy in the same measure that I have received mercy from You. Amen.
(From "Everyday Prayers for Everyday Cares")

1 The LORD reigns, he is robed in majesty;
the LORD is robed in majesty and is armed with strength.
The world is firmly established; it cannot be moved.
2 Your throne was established long ago;
you are from all eternity.
3 The seas have lifted up, O LORD, the seas have lifted up their voice;
the seas have lifted up their pounding waves.
4 Mightier than the thunder of the great waters,
mightier than the breakers of the sea—
the LORD on high is mighty.
5 Your statutes stand firm;
holiness adorns your house for endless days, O LORD.
Psalm 93 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Isaiah 25:1-9 – Revelation 1:9-20 – John 7:53-8:11

Father,
You teach me how to love.
Every day is a fresh start. Every day is another opportunity to learn lessons in love. Love is patient, so I ask You to help me be patient. Love is kind, so I ask You to help me treat others with respect. Love is gentle, so I look to You to help me not to condemn myself or others for failure. You are Love, Lord. As I spend time in Your presence, show me what real love is. Amen.
(From "Everyday Prayers for Everyday Cares")

1 When the LORD brought back the captives to Zion,
we were like men who dreamed.
2 Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy.
Then it was said among the nations, "The LORD has done great things for them."
3 The LORD has done great things for us,
and we are filled with joy.
4 Restore our fortunes, O LORD,
like streams in the Negev.
5 Those who sow in tears
will reap with songs of joy.
6 He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow,
will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him.
Psalm 126 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Isaiah 12:1-6 – Revelation 1:1-8 – John 7:37-52

Shoot of Jesse, our roots go back to that garden in Eden, to the paradise sold for an apple. The birth of your Son has reopened the gates of heaven and rained down blessings on our parched souls. As we relish the new light of the sun which nurtures our own "gardens" on earth, let us develop into real people who talk not about love but who actually practice the love of God (and through Him, love for their neighbors) with a radiant peace. Let us flower in the place you have given us. Amen.
(Thomas Merton)

1 Praise the LORD. [a]
Praise God in his sanctuary;
praise him in his mighty heavens.
2 Praise him for his acts of power;
praise him for his surpassing greatness.
3 Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet,
praise him with the harp and lyre,
4 praise him with tambourine and dancing,
praise him with the strings and flute,
5 praise him with the clash of cymbals,
praise him with resounding cymbals.
6 Let everything that has breath praise the LORD.
Praise the LORD.
Psalm 150 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Isaiah 35:1-10 – Revelation 22:12-21 – Luke 1:67-80

Christ, Our Redeemer, help us stand firm in the safety of your everlasting light and sustain us in the glorification of your works. Wash us clean with your grace, so that we may be released from our obsession with our own egos and our "own story." Fill our hearts with courage and faith so that we may seriously follow the path to holiness and saintliness. Amen.
(Thomas Merton)

1 Out of the depths I cry to you, O LORD;
2 O Lord, hear my voice.
Let your ears be attentive
to my cry for mercy.
3 If you, O LORD, kept a record of sins,
O Lord, who could stand?
4 But with you there is forgiveness;
therefore you are feared.
5 I wait for the LORD, my soul waits,
and in his word I put my hope.
Psalm 130 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Isaiah 33:17-22 – Revelation 22:6-11,18-20 – Luke 1:57-66

Light of the world, shine forth on us and banish our fears and fickleness. As you are a gift freely given, remind us that as your children, our generosity should be untarnished by the expectations of rewards. Let each gift given this season be unadulterated by the need for reciprocity. Keep us from counting -- our losses, our gains, our goods, our bads, our costs, our profits. Instead we give you the record book so that you may judge us according to your standards, not our own. Amen.
(Thomas Merton)

5 Find rest, O my soul, in God alone;
my hope comes from him.
6 He alone is my rock and my salvation;
he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.
7 My salvation and my honor depend on God ;
he is my mighty rock, my refuge.
8 Trust in him at all times, O people;
pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.
11 One thing God has spoken, two things have I heard:
that you, O God, are strong,
12 and that you, O Lord, are loving.
Surely you will reward each person according to what he has done.
Psalm 62 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Isaiah 31:1-9 –Revelation 21:22-22:5 – Luke 1:39-56

Eternal Father, let the bells of Christmas signify gentleness as the answer to all violence, tenderness as the answer to the world's harshness, light as the answer to the dark shadows of our misunderstandings, hope as the answer to the meaning of life. Amen.
(Thomas Merton)

1 I call on the LORD in my distress,
and he answers me.
2 Save me, O LORD, from lying lips
and from deceitful tongues.
3 What will he do to you,
and what more besides, O deceitful tongue?
4 He will punish you with a warrior's sharp arrows,
with burning coals of the broom tree.
6 Too long have I lived
among those who hate peace.
7 I am a man of peace;
but when I speak, they are for war.
Psalm 120 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Isaiah 10:5-19 – 2 Peter 2:17-22 – Matthew 11:2-15

Gloom-Slayer, come with the refreshing silence of your peace. Stifle the empty clamor of this too often secularized Christmas season, and set us free to reject the greed and waste so prevalent around us. Let us confirm our convictions without speech, praising you with our actions and our lives as dazzling witnesses to Christ. Amen.
(Thomas Merton)

1 When the LORD brought back the captives to Zion,
we were like men who dreamed.
2 Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy.
Then it was said among the nations, "The LORD has done great things for them."
3 The LORD has done great things for us,
and we are filled with joy.
4 Restore our fortunes, O LORD,
like streams in the Negev.
5 Those who sow in tears
will reap with songs of joy.
6 He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow,
will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him.
Psalm 126 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Isaiah 9:18-10:4 – 2 Peter 2:10-16 – Matthew 3:1-12

Giver of Peace, inspire all peoples with your meekness and humility of heart. Heal the strife and animosity that separate your sons and daughters and all the nations of the world. You who came to save us, endow us with loving intentions and loving actions. Let the peace of Bethlehem be with us always. Grant us the peace of justice, the peace of charity, and eternal peace with you. Amen.
(Thomas Merton)

1 The fool says in his heart, "There is no God."
They are corrupt, and their ways are vile; there is no one who does good.
2 God looks down from heaven on the sons of men
to see if there are any who understand, any who seek God.
3 Everyone has turned away, they have together become corrupt;
there is no one who does good, not even one.
4 Will the evildoers never learn—
those who devour my people as men eat bread and who do not call on God?
5 There they were, overwhelmed with dread, where there was nothing to dread.
God scattered the bones of those who attacked you;
you put them to shame, for God despised them.
6 Oh, that salvation for Israel would come out of Zion!
When God restores the fortunes of his people, let Jacob rejoice and Israel be glad!
Psalm 53 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Isaiah 9:8-17 – 2 Peter 2:1-10 – Mark 1:1-8

The Light of God surrounds me;The Love of God enfolds me;The Power of God protects me;The Presence of God watches over me;Wherever I am, God is,And all is well.
- James Dillet Freeman

1 You showed favor to your land, O LORD;
you restored the fortunes of Jacob.
2 You forgave the iniquity of your people
and covered all their sins.
3 You set aside all your wrath
and turned from your fierce anger.
4 Restore us again, O God our Savior,
and put away your displeasure toward us.
7 Show us your unfailing love, O LORD,
and grant us your salvation.
Psalm 85 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Isaiah 9:2-7 – 2 Peter 1:12-21 – Luke 22:54-69

The unknown is terrifying, responsibility is overwhelming, the untapped anger cannot be borne. Hear our cry, O God of love, for all so trapped in fear. Open our hearts to trust your presence to guide us in the unknown places; teach us to know you will support us in all that we undertake; free us to share with you the rage within, knowing you will never desert us.Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson

1 I waited patiently for the LORD;
he turned to me and heard my cry.
2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire;
he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.
3 He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD.
4 Blessed is the man who makes the LORD his trust,
who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods.
5 Many, O LORD my God, are the wonders you have done.
The things you planned for us no one can recount to you;
were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare.
Psalm 40 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Isaiah 8:16-9:1 – 2 Peter 1:1-11 – Luke 22:39-53

Lord, I bow before you today and give you honor for placing Christ in my heart. Forgive my wavering and rootless wandering. Ground me in you as I read and study your Word. Root me in your loving ways of compassion and truth. Today help me walk humbly with my friend and brother, Jesus. Amen.
(From "Daily Texts")

15 The nations will fear the name of the LORD,
all the kings of the earth will revere your glory.
16 For the LORD will rebuild Zion
and appear in his glory.
17 He will respond to the prayer of the destitute;
he will not despise their plea.
18 Let this be written for a future generation,
that a people not yet created may praise the LORD :
19 "The LORD looked down from his sanctuary on high,
from heaven he viewed the earth,
20 to hear the groans of the prisoners
and release those condemned to death."
Psalm102 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Isaiah 7:10-25 – 2 Thessalonians 2:13-3:5 – Luke 22:14-30

Blessed Lord, I am precious in your sight! What an affirmation to hang on to when feelings of self-doubt and discouragement overwhelm me. May the tribulations of this earthly life be as nothing when compared to the joy of new life in Christ. Help me reach out to others with your good news. Amen.
(From "Daily Texts")

1 I love you, O LORD, my strength.
2 The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer;
my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge.
He is my shield and the horn [a] of my salvation, my stronghold.
3 I call to the LORD, who is worthy of praise,
and I am saved from my enemies.
20 The LORD has dealt with me according to my righteousness;
according to the cleanness of my hands he has rewarded me.
21 For I have kept the ways of the LORD;
I have not done evil by turning from my God.
Psalm18 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Isaiah 7:1-9 – 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12 – Luke 22:1-13

Heavenly Father, remind us each day that, of all the gifts you give us, the greatest gift is love. It is not enough to share that love with those we hold dear. Open our hearts not to just those who are close to us, but to all humanity. Let us be slow to judge and quick to forgive, show patience, empathy and love. Amen
(Anonymous)

1 The Mighty One, God, the LORD, speaks and summons the earth
from the rising of the sun to the place where it sets.
2 From Zion, perfect in beauty,
God shines forth.
3 Our God comes and will not be silent;
a fire devours before him,
and around him a tempest rages.
4 He summons the heavens above,
and the earth, that he may judge his people:
5 "Gather to me my consecrated ones,
who made a covenant with me by sacrifice."
6 And the heavens proclaim his righteousness,
for God himself is judge.
Psalm 50 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Isaiah 6:1-13 – 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12 – John 7:53-8:11

Eternal God, though your power to redeem the world seems hidden from many who are wise and understanding, I stand in awe of you. Grant me a humble faith that I may be numbered among those who worship at the foot of the cross. When it is time for me to speak or act, grant me boldness through my Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
(From "Daily Texts")

1 O Lord, the God of vengeance,
O God of vengeance, let your glorious justice shine forth!
2 Arise, O judge of the earth.
Give the proud what they deserve.
12 Joyful are those you discipline, Lord,
those you teach with your instructions.
13 You give them relief from troubled times
until a pit is dug to capture the wicked.
14 The Lord will not reject his people;
he will not abandon his special possession.
15 Judgment will again be founded on justice,
and those with virtuous hearts will pursue it.
Psalm 94 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Isaiah 5:18-25 – 1 Thessalonians 5:12-28 – Luke 21:29-38

Almighty God, you have knit together your elect in one communion and fellowship in the mystical body of your Son Christ our Lord: Give us grace so to follow your blessed saints in all virtuous and godly living, that we may come to those ineffable joys that you have prepared for those who truly love you; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.
(From the "Book of Common Prayer")

14 The LORD upholds all those who fall
and lifts up all who are bowed down.
15 The eyes of all look to you,
and you give them their food at the proper time.
16 You open your hand
and satisfy the desires of every living thing.
17 The LORD is righteous in all his ways
and loving toward all he has made.
18 The LORD is near to all who call on him,
to all who call on him in truth.
19 He fulfills the desires of those who fear him;
he hears their cry and saves them.
Psalm 145 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Isaiah 5:8-17 – 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 – Luke 21:20-28

Clement of Alexandria (ca 210)

O Lord, the Savior and Guardian of those who fear you, turn away from your Church the deceitful allurements of this world’s wisdom; that under the teaching of your Spirit, we may find pleasure in the prophetic oracles and the apostolic instruction, lest the vanity of falsehoods deceive those whom the truth illuminates; through Jesus Christ our Lord who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen
(From the Gelasian Sacramentary)

13 As a father has compassion on his children,
so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him;
14 for he knows how we are formed,
he remembers that we are dust.
15 As for man, his days are like grass,
he flourishes like a flower of the field;
16 the wind blows over it and it is gone,
and its place remembers it no more.
17 But from everlasting to everlasting the LORD's love is with those who fear him,
and his righteousness with their children's children-
18 with those who keep his covenant
and remember to obey his precepts.
Psalm 103 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Isaiah 3:1-4:1 – 1 Thessalonians 4:1-12 – Luke 20:41-21:4

John of Damascus, Priest (ca 760)

Father,
You are the God of abundant blessings.
It's easy to lose sight of my own blessings when I am busy being envious of what others have. And it's easy to devalue who I am when I overvalue someone else because I am jealous. You show me that I am a person of faith and have no need to be envious because my personal journey through life and my experience is unique. You are the God who blesses me with more than enough. Help me, Lord, to open my eyes and see a new reality. Amen
(From "Everyday Prayers for Everyday Cares")

14 The LORD is my strength and my song;
he has become my salvation.
15 Shouts of joy and victory
resound in the tents of the righteous:
"The LORD's right hand has done mighty things!
16 The LORD's right hand is lifted high;
the LORD's right hand has done mighty things!"
17 I will not die but live,
and will proclaim what the LORD has done.
18 The LORD has chastened me severely,
but he has not given me over to death.
19 Open for me the gates of righteousness;
I will enter and give thanks to the LORD.
Psalm 118 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Isaiah 2:5-22 – 1 Thessalonians 3:1-13 – Luke 20:27-40

Francis Xavier, Missionary to Asia

Father,
I love You.
As a human being with needs and weaknesses, I do not love You perfectly. But I do love You, and I am learning how to perfect my love in You. I love You with my mind, delighting in Your wisdom. I love You with my heart, savoring our intimate communion. I love You with my strength, sharing Your love in practical ways with others. Lord, I love You. Teach me to love You better. Amen.
(From "Everyday Prayers for Everyday Cares")

9 Within your temple, O God,
we meditate on your unfailing love.
10 Like your name, O God,
your praise reaches to the ends of the earth;
your right hand is filled with righteousness.
11 Mount Zion rejoices,
the villages of Judah are glad
because of your judgments.
14 For this God is our God for ever and ever;
he will be our guide even to the end.
Psalm 48 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading): Isaiah 2:1-4 – 1 Thessalonians 2:13-20 – Luke 20:19-26

Father,
Now that I know that I am saved, beyond all shadow of doubt, I will fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life to which you have called me, and profess a good profession before all. I will hold fast the profession of my faith without wavering, because I know your are faithful with all your promises. Thank you dear Lord. Amen.
(From "Bible Prayers for All Your Needs")

10 Create in me a pure heart, O God,
and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
11 Do not cast me from your presence
or take your Holy Spirit from me.
12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation
and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
13 Then I will teach transgressors your ways,
and sinners will turn back to you.
Psalm 51 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading): Zechariah 14:1-11 – Romans 15:7-13 – Luke 19:28-40

Father,
You are my source of hope.
Thank You, Lord, for helping me to find hope in the pages of the Bible and the wise observations of friends. I find hope in the books I read, the songs I listen to, and the stories I hear. But each of these good things that speak hope to me are from You -- so many wonderful ways in which to experience Your hope. Every source of hope finds its beginning in You. Amen.
(From "Everyday Prayers for Everyday Cares")

1 Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked
or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers.
2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD,
and on his law he meditates day and night.
3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither.
Whatever he does prospers.
4 Not so the wicked!
They are like chaff that the wind blows away.
5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,
nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous.
6 For the LORD watches over the way of the righteous,
but the way of the wicked will perish.
Psalm 1 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Zechariah 12:1-10 – Ephesians 1:3-14 – Luke 19:1-10

Father,
You are Lord over all.
You do not label me an "outsider" or "insider," "winner" or "loser." You look, not at my outward appearance, but at my heart. Today, teach me to look on the heart and to see that You love each person, that You died for each one. When I see injustice, I remember that I do not know the end of the story. Only You know the full truth. I trust Your judgment, for You are Lord over all. Amen.
(From "Everyday Prayers for Everyday Cares")

1 My heart is steadfast, O God;
I will sing and make music with all my soul.
2 Awake, harp and lyre!
I will awaken the dawn.
3 I will praise you, O LORD, among the nations;
I will sing of you among the peoples.
4 For great is your love, higher than the heavens;
your faithfulness reaches to the skies.
5 Be exalted, O God, above the heavens,
and let your glory be over all the earth.
6 Save us and help us with your right hand,
that those you love may be delivered.
Psalm 98 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Zechariah 11:4-17 – 1 Corinthians 3:10-23 – Luke 18:31-43

You have blessed us, O God, with the gift of friendship, the bonding of persons in a circle of love. We thank you for such a blessing: for friends who love us, who share our sorrows, who laugh with us in celebration, who bear our pain, who need us as we need them, who weep as we weep, who hold us when words fail, and who give us the freedom to be ourselves. Bless our friends with health, wholeness, life, and love.
Amen.
Vienna Cobb Anderson

1 Praise the LORD.
Blessed is the man who fears the LORD,
who finds great delight in his commands.
2 His children will be mighty in the land;
the generation of the upright will be blessed.
3 Wealth and riches are in his house,
and his righteousness endures forever.
4 Even in darkness light dawns for the upright,
for the gracious and compassionate and righteous man. [c]
5 Good will come to him who is generous and lends freely,
who conducts his affairs with justice.
6 Surely he will never be shaken;
a righteous man will be remembered forever
Psalm 93 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Malachi 3:1-12 – James 5:7-12 – Luke 18:1-8

O Lord, this is our desire, to walk along the path of life that you have appointed us, in steadfastness of faith, in lowliness of heart, in gentleness of love. Let not the cares or duties of this life press on us too heavily; but lighten our burdens, that we may follow your way in quietness, filled with thankfulness for your mercy; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
(Maria Hare)

1 The Lord is king! He is robed in majesty.
Indeed, the Lord is robed in majesty and armed with strength.
The world stands firm
and cannot be shaken.
2 Your throne, O Lord, has stood from time immemorial.
You yourself are from the everlasting past.
3 The floods have risen up, O Lord.
The floods have roared like thunder;
the floods have lifted their pounding waves.
4 But mightier than the violent raging of the seas,
mightier than the breakers on the shore—
the Lord above is mightier than these!
5 Your royal laws cannot be changed.
Your reign, O Lord, is holy forever and ever.
Psalm 93 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Malachi 2:1-16 – James 4:13-5:6 – Luke 17:20-37

God, I know that you are not to be mocked, and I tremble. Lead me to trust less in easy words and more in courageous deeds of love and mercy. Lead me to work for justice, so that the hungry may be fed and the homeless poor be taken in. Embolden my witness on behalf of all who suffer unjustly, so that with my life I say, "Jesus is Lord." Amen.
(From "Daily Texts")

6 Arise, O LORD, in your anger; rise up against the rage of my enemies.
Awake, my God; decree justice.
7 Let the assembled peoples gather around you.
Rule over them from on high;
8 let the LORD judge the peoples.
Judge me, O LORD, according to my righteousness,
according to my integrity, O Most High.
9 O righteous God, who searches minds and hearts,
bring to an end the violence of the wicked and make the righteous secure.
10 My shield is God Most High,
who saves the upright in heart.
Psalm 7 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Malachi 1:1, 6-14 – James 3:13-4:12 – Luke 17:11-19

Father,
You complete my joy.
Thank You for the gift of joy. I thank You for those days when the sun shines, all is right with the world, and happiness naturally springs up in my heart. But I thank You even more that Your joy is never dependent on outward circumstances, but that it is a mysterious inward gift that comes from Your work in my heart. I praise You, Lord, for Your constant goodness to me. Amen.
(From "Everyday Prayers for Everyday Cares")

1 Answer me when I call to you, O my righteous God.
Give me relief from my distress; be merciful to me and hear my prayer.
2 How long, O men, will you turn my glory into shame [a] ?
How long will you love delusions and seek false gods [b] ?
3 Know that the LORD has set apart the godly for himself;
the LORD will hear when I call to him.
4 In your anger do not sin;
when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent.
5 Offer right sacrifices and trust in the LORD.
6 Many are asking, "Who can show us any good?"
Let the light of your face shine upon us, O LORD.
Psalm 4 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Habakkuk 2: 1-4, 9-20 – James 2:14-26 – Luke 16:19-31

God of kindness and compassion, teach us goodness, discipline and wisdom, that these gifts may keep us from being hardened by evil, weakened by laziness or ignorant because of foolishness; through Jesus Christ our Lord we pray, Amen
- Philip H. Pfatteicher

1 Lord, you have been our dwelling place
throughout all generations.
2 Before the mountains were born
or you brought forth the earth and the world,
from everlasting to everlasting you are God.
3 You turn men back to dust,
saying, "Return to dust, O sons of men."
4 For a thousand years in your sight
are like a day that has just gone by,
or like a watch in the night.
12 Teach us to number our days aright,
that we may gain a heart of wisdom.
Psalm 90 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Joel 2:28-3:8 – James 1:16-27 – Luke 16:1-9

Generous Lord, thank you for the undeserved grace and forgiveness you give to all your people. Forgive me for my envy of my neighbors' blessings. Help me see that you have abundantly provided for all of my needs. Today I pray that you will use me to bless another. Amen.
(From "Daily Texts")

1 I love the LORD, for he heard my voice;
he heard my cry for mercy.
2 Because he turned his ear to me,
I will call on him as long as I live.
3 The cords of death entangled me,
the anguish of the grave [a] came upon me;
I was overcome by trouble and sorrow.
4 Then I called on the name of the LORD :
"O LORD, save me!"
5 The LORD is gracious and righteous;
our God is full of compassion.
6 The LORD protects the simplehearted;
when I was in great need, he saved me.
Psalm 116 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Joel 2:21-27 – James 1:1-15 – Luke 15:1-2, 11-32

Soren Aabye Kierkegaard, Theologian

Father in heaven, you awaken conscience in our breast and keep us vigilant that we may work out our salvation in fear and trembling: When the law in its seriousness fills us with dread and thunder booms from Sinai, grant that we may also hear a gentle voice murmuring to us that we are your children; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen
(adapted from a prayer of Kierkegaard)

89 Your word, O LORD, is eternal;
it stands firm in the heavens.
90 Your faithfulness continues through all generations;
you established the earth, and it endures.
91 Your laws endure to this day,
for all things serve you.
92 If your law had not been my delight,
I would have perished in my affliction.
93 I will never forget your precepts,
for by them you have preserved my life.
94 Save me, for I am yours;
I have sought out your precepts.
Psalm 119 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Joel 2:12-19 - Revelation 19:11-21 – Luke 15:1-10

Martin, Bishop of Tours
Veteran’s day

Lord, God of hosts, you clothed your servant Martin the soldier with the spirit of sacrifice, and set him as a bishop in your Church to be defender of the faith: Give us grace to follow in his holy steps, that at the last we may be found clothed with righteousness in the dwellings of peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen
(From “Lesser Feasts and Festivals”)

1 LORD, who may dwell in your sanctuary?
Who may live on your holy hill?
2 He whose walk is blameless and who does what is righteous,
who speaks the truth from his heart
3 and has no slander on his tongue, who does his neighbor no wrong
and casts no slur on his fellowman,
4 who despises a vile man but honors those who fear the LORD,
who keeps his oath even when it hurts,
5 who lends his money without usury
and does not accept a bribe against the innocent.
He who does these things will never be shaken.
Psalm 15 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Joel 1:15-2:11 - Revelation 19:1-10 – Luke 14:25-35

Come, Holy Spirit, come!
Teach us to believe that we, like the earth, already hold within ourselves the seeds of new life. Awaken in us new hope and new dreams so that we can break through the soil of our own barrenness and fear. Give us roots that we may stand firm in integrity and give us wings to bring the stirrings of compassion to your poor and marginalized. Great Spirit, make us a people of peace. Teach us to walk softly on your lands, to use with care your gifts, and to love with tenderness all our brothers and sisters.
Come, Holy Spirit, come!

1 I will praise you, O LORD, with all my heart;
before the "gods" I will sing your praise.
2 I will bow down toward your holy temple
and will praise your name
for your love and your faithfulness,
for you have exalted above all things
your name and your word.
3 When I called, you answered me;
you made me bold and stouthearted.
4 May all the kings of the earth praise you, O LORD,
when they hear the words of your mouth.
5 May they sing of the ways of the LORD,
for the glory of the LORD is great.
Psalm 138 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Joel 1:1-13 – Revelation 18:15-24 – Luke 14:12-24

Thank You for reminding me that troubles don't mean You have forgotten me, Lord. Problems in my life don't show that You've given up on me or that I am not obeying You. I'm so glad that You have promised to help me through every trouble I ever face.
On my own, I could never handle every challenge that came along -- but knowing You will be with me through thick and thin raises my spirits. No problem is too large for You. You'll see me through, no matter how many dilemmas lie before me.
Thank You, Lord, for Your deliverance from difficulties large and small. I need Your help for each, and I'm blessed to have such a caring Father. Amen.
(From "Prayers & Promises")

1 The LORD is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear?
The LORD is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?
2 When evil men advance against me to devour my flesh,
when my enemies and my foes attack me, they will stumble and fall.
3 Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear;
though war break out against me, even then will I be confident.
4 One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek:
that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life,
to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple.

Psalm 59 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Zephaniah 3:1-7 – Revelation 16:12-21 – Luke 13:18-30

November 5, 2008 - Elizabeth & Zechariah, Parents of St John the Baptist

Father,
You are the Joy of my heart.
When I am weary of the world, I come to You for renewal. In our time of intimate communion, You reveal Your love to me. Your voice speaks to my heart, telling me the secrets of the Kingdom. Thank You, Lord, for showing me that one of the delightful secrets of the Kingdom of God is the joy that bubbles up like a spring, renewing my heart and helping me find joy in You. Amen.
(From "Everyday Prayers for Everyday Cares")

1 Deliver me from my enemies, O God;
protect me from those who rise up against me.
2 Deliver me from evildoers
and save me from bloodthirsty men.
3 See how they lie in wait for me!
Fierce men conspire against me
for no offense or sin of mine, O LORD.
16 But I will sing of your strength,
in the morning I will sing of your love;
for you are my fortress,
my refuge in times of trouble.
17 O my Strength, I sing praise to you;
you, O God, are my fortress, my loving God..
Psalm 59 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Zephaniah 2:1-15 – Revelation 16:1-11 – Luke 13:10-17

My Heavenly Father, I thank You, through Jesus Christ, Your beloved Son, that You kept me safe from all evil and danger last night. Save me, I pray, today as well, from every evil and sin, so that all I do and the way that I live will please you. I put myself in your care, body and soul and all that I have. Let Your holy Angels be with me, so that the evil enemy will not gain power over me. Amen.
- Martin Luther - Luther's Morning Prayer

1 Hear, O LORD, and answer me,
for I am poor and needy.
2 Guard my life, for I am devoted to you.
You are my God; save your servant
who trusts in you.
3 Have mercy on me, O Lord,
for I call to you all day long.
4 Bring joy to your servant,
for to you, O Lord,
I lift up my soul.
5 You are forgiving and good, O Lord,
abounding in love to all who call to you.
Psalm 86 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Zephaniah 1:14-18 – Revelation 14:11-15:8 – Luke 13:1-9

Father, I rest in the flow of Your will.
Lord, You parted the Red Sea and freed the children of Israel. You lead us on life’s pilgrimage, opening the way before us in mysterious and sometimes miraculous ways. I have been faithful, striving to do my best in every situation. I will turn situations over to You and release my expectations, trusting in Your deliverance. Then I wait for Your intervention in my troublesome affairs and thank You for the power of Your ways in my life. Amen.
(From “Everyday Prayers for Everyday Cares”)

14 But you, O God, do see trouble and grief; you consider it to take it in hand.
The victim commits himself to you; you are the helper of the fatherless.
15 Break the arm of the wicked and evil man;
call him to account for his wickedness that would not be found out.
16 The LORD is King for ever and ever;
the nations will perish from his land.
17 You hear, O LORD, the desire of the afflicted;
you encourage them, and you listen to their cry,
18 defending the fatherless and the oppressed,
in order that man, who is of the earth, may terrify no more.
Psalm 10 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Zephaniah 1:7-13 – Revelation 14:1-13 – Luke 12:49-59

Reformation Day

Almighty God, gracious Lord, pour out your Holy Spirit upon your faithful people. Keep them steadfast in your Word, protect them in all temptations, defend them against all their enemies, and bestow on the Church your saving peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen

1 God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
3 though its waters roar and foam
and the mountains quake with their surging.
4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy place where the Most High dwells.
5 God is within her, she will not fall;
God will help her at break of day.
Psalm 46 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Nahum 2:13-3:7 – Revelation 13:1-10 – Luke 12:13-31

Father,
You are the Anchor of my soul.
It's easy for me, Lord, to drift from one opinion to another. But in this stormy time of trouble and doubt, my soul needs a safe harbor and a sturdy anchor. You are my Anchor, grounding me in the truth. You are my safe Harbor, surrounding me with Your love. I may be tossed by rough waters, but I am never lost, for You are my everlasting Hope. Amen.
(From "Everyday Prayers for Everyday Cares")

1 I will praise you, O LORD, with all my heart;
before the "gods" I will sing your praise.
2 I will bow down toward your holy temple
and will praise your name
for your love and your faithfulness,
for you have exalted above all things
your name and your word.
3 When I called, you answered me;
you made me bold and stouthearted.
4 May all the kings of the earth praise you, O LORD,
when they hear the words of your mouth.
5 May they sing of the ways of the LORD,
for the glory of the LORD is great.
Psalm 138 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Nahum 1:15-2:12 – Revelation 12:7-17 – Luke 11:53-12:12

Grant us O Lord to pass this day in gladness and peace, without stumbling and without stain, that reaching the eventide victorious over all temptation through your ever present aid we may praise you, the eternal God, Governor of all things and blessed evermore; through Jesus Christ our Lord
(from Mozarabic Sacramentary)

8 O LORD God Almighty, who is like you?
You are mighty, O LORD, and your faithfulness surrounds you.
9 You rule over the surging sea;
when its waves mount up, you still them.
11 The heavens are yours, and yours also the earth;
you founded the world and all that is in it.
13 Your arm is endued with power;
your hand is strong, your right hand exalted.
14 Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne;
love and faithfulness go before you.
Psalm 89 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Nahum 1:1-14 – Revelation 12:1-6 – Luke 11:37-52

October 28, 2008 – St Simon and St Jude, Apostles

O God, we thank you for the glorious company of the apostles, and especially on this day for Simon and Jude: and we pray that, as they were faithful and zealous in their mission, so we may with ardent devotion make known the love and mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen
(Book of Common Prayer)

89 Your word, O LORD, is eternal;
it stands firm in the heavens.
90 Your faithfulness continues through all generations;
you established the earth, and it endures.
91 Your laws endure to this day,
for all things serve you.
92 If your law had not been my delight,
I would have perished in my affliction.
93 I will never forget your precepts,
for by them you have preserved my life.
Psalm 119 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Jonah 3:1-4:11 – Revelation 11:14-19 – Luke 11:27-36

October 23, 2008 - St James of Jerusalem, Brother of Our Lord Jesus Christ

Father,
You are my eternal Joy.
One day the sorrow and suffering of this earthly life will be over. I comfort myself with Your promise of eternal joy. I am Your child, and You guide me gently on my pilgrimage through this world. But You also remind me that my true home is with You, where the saints shall rejoice forever in Your love. Help me to keep my eyes focused on eternal realities. Amen.
(From "Everyday Prayers for Everyday Cares")

1 Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked
or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers.
2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD,
and on his law he meditates day and night.
3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.
4 Not so the wicked! They are like chaff
that the wind blows away.
5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,
nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous.
6 For the LORD watches over the way of the righteous,
but the way of the wicked will perish.
Psalm 1 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Micah 5:1-4,10-15 – Revelation 9:1-12 – Luke 10:25-37

Father,
You bring my hopes and dreams to pass.
As I choose to live in Your will and continue to plant the good seed of faith in the soil of my life, I know that You are giving me favor and leading me in the ways of success. As a farmer patiently waters, weeds, and waits for the seed to grow, so I wait for You to bring my dreams to realization. I thank You that even as I wait for fulfillment, You promise my time will one day come. Amen.
(From "Everyday Prayers for Everyday Cares")

1 Praise the LORD.
Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good;
his love endures forever.
2 Who can proclaim the mighty acts of the LORD
or fully declare his praise?
3 Blessed are they who maintain justice,
who constantly do what is right.
4 Remember me, O LORD, when you show favor to your people,
come to my aid when you save them,
5 that I may enjoy the prosperity of your chosen ones,
that I may share in the joy of your nation
and join your inheritance in giving praise.
Psalm 132 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Micah 3:9-4:5 – Revelation 8:1-13 – Luke 10:17-24

Father, You heal me.
Sometimes, Lord, I wonder about suffering. I wonder why some are healed but others are not. I know from Your Word that it is Your intention for all Your children to live in health. Therefore, I choose to trust You when healing is evident. And I also trust You when it is not. I trust You when I understand and when I do not. I trust You because I will never be disappointed when I place my trust in You. Amen.
(From "Everyday Prayers for Everyday Cares")

5 Your love, O LORD, reaches to the heavens,
your faithfulness to the skies.
6 Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains,
your justice like the great deep.
O LORD, you preserve both man and beast.
7 How priceless is your unfailing love!
Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings.
8 They feast on the abundance of your house;
you give them drink from your river of delights.
9 For with you is the fountain of life;
in your light we see light.
10 Continue your love to those who know you,
your righteousness to the upright in heart.
Psalm 73 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Micah 3:1-8 – Revelation 7:9-17 – Luke 10:1-16

Father God, in baptism you have made me your own. And because I am your own, I know that I am protected, and nurtured in your loving grace. Thank you for making me yours and setting me free from the bonds of sin and death. Abba, Father, I am grateful. Amen.
(From "Daily Texts")

23 Yet I am always with you;
you hold me by my right hand.
24 You guide me with your counsel,
and afterward you will take me into glory.
25 Whom have I in heaven but you?
And earth has nothing I desire besides you.
26 My flesh and my heart may fail,
but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
27 Those who are far from you will perish;
you destroy all who are unfaithful to you.
28 But as for me, it is good to be near God.
I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge;
I will tell of all your deeds.
Psalm 73 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Micah 2:1-13 –Revelation 7:1-8 – Luke 9:51-62

Dear Lord, I thank you for the numerous people who have gone before me as great witnesses of your love. I praise you that their faith stories have been told again and again and that I learn and am strengthened by them. May I live my life as a bold witness for you! Amen.
(From "Daily Texts")

1 Sing to the LORD a new song;
sing to the LORD, all the earth.
2 Sing to the LORD, praise his name;
proclaim his salvation day after day.
3 Declare his glory among the nations,
his marvelous deeds among all peoples.
4 For great is the LORD and most worthy of praise;
he is to be feared above all gods.
5 For all the gods of the nations are idols,
but the LORD made the heavens.
6 Splendor and majesty are before him;
strength and glory are in his sanctuary.
Psalm 96 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Hosea 13:4-8 – Acts 27:27-44 – John 9:18-27

October 15, 2008 – Teresa of Avila

“Christ has no body now but yours
No hands, no feet on earth but yours
Yours are the eyes through which He looks compassion on this world
Christ has no body now on earth but yours.”
attributed to Teresa of Avila (1515-1582)

1 O LORD, you have searched me
and you know me.
2 You know when I sit and when I rise;
you perceive my thoughts from afar.
3 You discern my going out and my lying down;
you are familiar with all my ways.
7 Where can I go from your Spirit?
Where can I flee from your presence?
8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there;
if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
if I settle on the far side of the sea,
10 even there your hand will guide me,
your right hand will hold me fast.
Psalm 139 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Hosea 13:1-3 – Acts 27:9-26 – John 9:1-17

October 14, 2008

Lord, Settle My Soul
O Lord, this is all my desire -- to walk along the path of life that Thou hast appointed me, even as Jesus my Lord would walk along it, in steadfastness of faith, in meekness of spirit, in lowliness of heart, in gentleness of love. And because outward events have so much power in scattering my thoughts and disturbing the inward peace in which alone the voice of Thy spirit is heard, do Thou, gracious Lord, calm and settle my soul by that subduing power which alone can bring all thoughts and desires of the heart into captivity to Thyself. All I have is Thine; do Thou with all as seems best to Thy divine will; for I know not what is best. Let not the cares or duties of this life press on me too heavily; but lighten my burden, that I may follow Thy way in quietness, filled with thankfulness for Thy mercy, and rendering acceptable service unto Thee.
- Maria Hare (1798-1870)

1 God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
3 though its waters roar and foam
and the mountains quake with their surging.
4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy place where the Most High dwells.
5 God is within her, she will not fall;
God will help her at break of day.
Psalm 46 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Hosea 12:2-14 – Acts 26:24-27:8 – Luke 8:40-56

Father,
You give me patience and understanding.
When I feel anger building inside me, I find my refuge and strength in You. You help me to cool off -- and give the situation time to resolve, if possible, on its own. You help me see my troubles from a higher perspective. When someone troubles me, You urge me to acknowledge my pain and then move beyond it to offer forgiveness and lovingkindness to the person who has wronged me. Amen. (From "Everyday Prayers for Everyday Cares")

1 Hear us, O Shepherd of Israel, you who lead Joseph like a flock;
you who sit enthroned between the cherubim, shine forth
2 before Ephraim, Benjamin and Manasseh.
Awaken your might; come and save us.
3 Restore us, O God; make your face shine upon us,
that we may be saved.
16 Your vine is cut down, it is burned with fire;
at your rebuke your people perish.
17 Let your hand rest on the man at your right hand,
the son of man you have raised up for yourself.
18 Then we will not turn away from you;
revive us, and we will call on your name.
Psalm 80 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Hosea 11:12-12:1 – Acts 26:1-23 – Luke 8:26-39

Jesus, You were never unfaithful. You were never rushed. You gladly took time with people. They were Your agenda.
Jesus, in my thinking, in my speaking, in the decisions I make, in my reactions to others, when I am inconvenienced, when I am under pressure, flavor my life with Your love. Keep me in You, and at peace in You. Jesus, flavor my life with Your love. Amen.
(From "Simple Prayers" by Ken Bible)

3 Restore us, O God;
make your face shine upon us,
that we may be saved.
4 O LORD God Almighty,
how long will your anger smolder
against the prayers of your people?
5 You have fed them with the bread of tears;
you have made them drink tears by the bowlful.
6 You have made us a source of contention to our neighbors,
and our enemies mock us.
7 Restore us, O God Almighty;
make your face shine upon us,
that we may be saved.
Psalm 48 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Hosea 9:1-9 – Acts 24:1-23 – Luke 7:36-50

Father,
You are the Source of my confident faith.
In every situation, You are my Provider and Protector. In every relationship, You are my Peacemaker. You guide me all of the time, wherever I go, helping me to navigate each obstacle as it appears in my path. You are totally trustworthy and will never let me down. Because I depend on You, I am confident that help will come at exactly the right time. Amen.
(From "Everyday Prayers for Everyday Cares")

1 Great is the LORD, and most worthy of praise,
in the city of our God, his holy mountain.
2 It is beautiful in its loftiness,
the joy of the whole earth.
Like the utmost heights of Zaphon is Mount Zion,
the city of the Great King.
3 God is in her citadels;
he has shown himself to be her fortress.
8 As we have heard,
so have we seen
in the city of the LORD Almighty,
in the city of our God:
God makes her secure forever.
Psalm 48 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Hosea 8:1-14 – Acts 23:23-35 – Luke 7:18-35

Father,
You will bring peace to the earth.
The world is at war with itself. Every day in newspapers and on television I see scenes of strife. Even in my own home and workplace, I struggle to get along with others. Peace is Your miracle. It begins with transformed hearts. In Your plan, the fullness of time will bring peace to the entire world. Until that time, help me to appreciate Your promises of peace and joy. Amen.
(From "Everyday Prayers for Everyday Cares")

1 I will exalt you, O LORD,
for you lifted me out of the depths
and did not let my enemies gloat over me.
2 O LORD my God, I called to you for help
and you healed me.
3 O LORD, you brought me up from the grave;
you spared me from going down into the pit.
4 Sing to the LORD, you saints of his;
praise his holy name.
5 For his anger lasts only a moment,
but his favor lasts a lifetime;
weeping may remain for a night,
but rejoicing comes in the morning
Psalm 30 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Hosea 7:8-16 – Acts 23:12-24 – Luke 7:1-17

I thank you, God, for the simplicity of faith in you. Jesus made it simple, and I sometimes make it so complicated. You know how I get tangled in webs of confusion and doubt. I pray for a renewed, child-like faith and the time today to rest in the good news of the cross. Amen.
(From "Daily Texts")

1 I will praise you, O LORD, with all my heart;
I will tell of all your wonders.
2 I will be glad and rejoice in you;
I will sing praise to your name, O Most High.
3 My enemies turn back;
they stumble and perish before you.
4 For you have upheld my right and my cause;
you have sat on your throne, judging righteously.
5 You have rebuked the nations and destroyed the wicked;
you have blotted out their name for ever and ever.
6 Endless ruin has overtaken the enemy,
you have uprooted their cities;
even the memory of them has perished.
Psalm 9 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Hosea 6:7-7:7 – Acts 22:30-23:11 – Luke 6:39-49

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love,
Where there is injury, pardon
Where there is doubt, faith,
Where there is despair, hope,
Where there is darkness, light,
Where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much
seek to be consoled as to console,
not so much to be understood as to understand,
not so much to be loved, as to love;
for it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
it is in dying that we awake to eternal life.
- St. Francis of Assisi

1 Praise the LORD.
Praise the LORD from the heavens,
praise him in the heights above.
2 Praise him, all his angels,
praise him, all his heavenly hosts.
3 Praise him, sun and moon,
praise him, all you shining stars.
4 Praise him, you highest heavens
and you waters above the skies.
5 Let them praise the name of the LORD,
for he commanded and they were created.
6 He set them in place for ever and ever;
he gave a decree that will never pass away
Psalm 148 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Hosea 4:11-19 – Acts 21:37-22:16 – Luke 6:12-26

Father,
You reward worthy work.
Even though I know that honest work is pleasing in Your eyes, it's easy to be frustrated by those who do what they should not and prosper while I work so hard just to make ends meet. Help me to remember that Your rewards extend beyond mere money. I submit my work to You and thank You for the opportunity to please You in it. Amen.
(From "Everyday Prayers for Everyday Cares")

7 Sing to the LORD with thanksgiving;
make music to our God on the harp.
8 He covers the sky with clouds;
he supplies the earth with rain
and makes grass grow on the hills.
9 He provides food for the cattle
and for the young ravens when they call.
10 His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse,
nor his delight in the legs of a man;
11 the LORD delights in those who fear him,
who put their hope in his unfailing love.
Psalm 147 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Hosea 4:1-10 – Acts 21:27-39 – Luke 5:1-11

God, left to myself I am a frail child of dust, knowing only what my eyes can see and my hands can touch. But through your word you call me to rise up out of my dust and become your own child again through faith. Amazing grace! What can I offer but my humble thanks and praise, through Christ the Living Word. Amen
(From "Daily Texts")

1 Praise the LORD.
How good it is to sing praises to our God,
how pleasant and fitting to praise him!
2 The LORD builds up Jerusalem;
he gathers the exiles of Israel.
3 He heals the brokenhearted
and binds up their wounds.
4 He determines the number of the stars
and calls them each by name.
5 Great is our Lord and mighty in power;
his understanding has no limit.
6 The LORD sustains the humble
but casts the wicked to the ground.
Psalm 147 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Hosea 3:1-5 – Acts 21:15-26 – Luke 5:27-39

My Lord, I let so many things drown out Your still small voice, things that don't make any difference in the story of my eternal life with You. Forgive me for the times I interrupt and even ignore You when You are wanting to speak to me. By Your Holy Spirit, convict me of the distractions I give in to and point out those people who take me away from You. Help me be quiet so that I can hear Your Spirit speak to me. Please help me be still and rest in Your Holy presence so that I might know what You are saying to me. Let Your Word penetrate my soul so deeply that it speaks louder than the world, so that I will recognize Your voice above all the chaos and busyness of my days. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
(From "Prayers to My King" by Sheri Rose Shepherd)

1 Praise the Lord!
Let all that I am praise the Lord.
2 I will praise the Lord as long as I live.
I will sing praises to my God with my dying breath.
3 Don’t put your confidence in powerful people;
there is no help for you there.
4 When they breathe their last, they return to the earth,
and all their plans die with them.
5 But joyful are those who have the God of Israel as their helper,
whose hope is in the Lord their God.
Psalm 146 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Hosea 2:16-23 – Acts 21:1-14 – Luke 5:12-26

Eternal God, though your power to redeem the world seems hidden from many who are wise and understanding, I stand in awe of you. Grant me a humble faith that I may be numbered among those who worship at the foot of the cross. When it is time for me to speak or act, grant me boldness through my Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
(From "Daily Texts")

1 I will exalt you, my God the King;
I will praise your name for ever and ever.
2 Every day I will praise you
and extol your name for ever and ever.
3 Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise;
his greatness no one can fathom.
4 One generation will commend your works to another;
they will tell of your mighty acts.
5 They will speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty,
and I will meditate on your wonderful works.
6 They will tell of the power of your awesome works,
and I will proclaim your great deeds.
Psalm 145 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Hosea 2:2-15 – Acts 20:17-38 – Luke 5:1-11

Lord Jesus, make of us good and fertile soil, for the reception of the seed of your grace, and make it yield worthy fruits of penance, so that with your help we may merit to live eternally in your glory, who are blessed throughout all ages. Amen.
Anthony of Padua

1 Help, LORD, for the godly are no more;
the faithful have vanished from among men.
2 Everyone lies to his neighbor;
their flattering lips speak with deception.
3 May the LORD cut off all flattering lips
and every boastful tongue
4 that says, "We will triumph with our tongues;
we own our lips —who is our master?"
5 "Because of the oppression of the weak
and the groaning of the needy,
I will now arise," says the LORD.
"I will protect them from those who malign them."
6 And the words of the LORD are flawless,
like silver refined in a furnace of clay,
purified seven times.
Psalm 12 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Esther 5:4-14 – Acts 18:12-28 – Luke 3:15-22

Most High, Glorious God,
enlighten the darkness of my heart,
and give me correct faith,
sure hope and perfect charity,
with understanding and knowledge, Lord,
so that I may fulfill your holy and true command,
Amen.
Francis of Assisi

5 Find rest, O my soul, in God alone;
my hope comes from him.
6 He alone is my rock and my salvation;
he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.
7 My salvation and my honor depend on God [a] ;
he is my mighty rock, my refuge.
8 Trust in him at all times, O people;
pour out your hearts to him,
for God is our refuge.
Psalm 62 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Esther 4:4-17 – Acts 18:1-11 – Luke 3:1-14

Blessed are you, loving Father, Ruler of the universe: You have given us Your Son as Your Leader, and have made us temples of Your Holy Spirit. Fill our family with Your light and peace. Have mercy on all who suffer, and bring us to everlasting joy with You. Father, we bless Your Name forever and ever.
Amen.

1 I rejoiced with those who said to me,
"Let us go to the house of the LORD."
2 Our feet are standing
in your gates, O Jerusalem.
3 Jerusalem is built like a city
that is closely compacted together.
4 That is where the tribes go up,
the tribes of the LORD,
to praise the name of the LORD
according to the statute given to Israel.
5 There the thrones for judgment stand,
the thrones of the house of David.
Psalm 122 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Esther 1:1-4, 10-19 – Acts 17:1-15 – John 12:36b-43

Grant to us, O Lord, to trust in you with all our hearts; as you always resist the proud who confide in their own strength, so you never forsake those who make their boast in your mercy; through your Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the holy spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen
(From The Book of Common Prayer)

1 I will sing of your love and justice;
to you, O LORD, I will sing praise.
2 I will be careful to lead a blameless life—when will you come to me?
I will walk in my house with blameless heart.
3 I will set before my eyes no vile thing.
The deeds of faithless men I hate; they will not cling to me.
4 Men of perverse heart shall be far from me;
I will have nothing to do with evil.
5 Whoever slanders his neighbor in secret, him will I put to silence;
whoever has haughty eyes and a proud heart, him will I not endure.
6 My eyes will be on the faithful in the land, that they may dwell with me;
he whose walk is blameless will minister to me.
Psalm 54 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Job 28:1-28 – Acts 16:25-40 – John 12:27-36a

O Divine Lord, how shall I dare to approach You,
I who have so often offended You?
No, Lord, I am not worthy that You should enter under my roof;
but speak only the word and my soul shall be healed.

1 Praise awaits you, O God, in Zion;
to you our vows will be fulfilled.
2 O you who hear prayer,
to you all men will come.
3 When we were overwhelmed by sins,
you forgave our transgressions.
4 Blessed are those you choose and bring near to live in your courts!
We are filled with the good things of your house, of your holy temple.
5 You answer us with awesome deeds of righteousness, O God our Savior,
the hope of all the ends of the earth and of the farthest seas,
6 who formed the mountains by your power,
having armed yourself with strength,
Psalm 54 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Job 42:1-17 – Acts 16:16-24 – John 12:20-26

Lord, Your Word says not to hide Your eternal light that is within me. And I do want others to know the hope You've given me. I want to have the boldness to burn brightly for You in this dark world.
So I ask You to help me not hide behind my fears of what others will think. Please shine Your light on those dark places in my heart that keep Your Holy Spirit from working through me. Make me into a star for You, a star that points people to heaven. Let my life reflect You in such a way that others will see Your loving kindness, tenderness, and mercy and be drawn to You and You alone.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
(From "Prayers to my King" by Sheri Rose Shepherd)

1 Save me, O God, by your name;
vindicate me by your might.
2 Hear my prayer, O God;
listen to the words of my mouth.
3 Strangers are attacking me;
ruthless men seek my life—
men without regard for God.
4 Surely God is my help;
the Lord is the one who sustains me.
7 For he has delivered me from all my troubles,
and my eyes have looked in triumph on my foes.
Psalm 54 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Job 41:1-11 – Acts 16:6-15 – John 12:9-19

Lord Jesus Christ, take all my freedom, my memory, my understanding, and my will.
All that I have and cherish You have given me. I surrender it all to be guided by Your will.
Your love and Your grace are wealth enough for me.
Give me these, Lord Jesus, I ask for nothing more.
Amen.

1 Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me,
for in you my soul takes refuge.
I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings
until the disaster has passed.
2 I cry out to God Most High,
to God, who fulfills {his purpose} for me.
3 He sends from heaven and saves me,
rebuking those who hotly pursue me;
God sends his love and his faithfulness.
4 I am in the midst of lions;
I lie among ravenous beasts—
men whose teeth are spears and arrows,
whose tongues are sharp swords.
5 Be exalted, O God, above the heavens;
let your glory be over all the earth.
Psalm 57 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Job 40:1-24 – Acts 15:36-16:5 – John 11:55-12:8

Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love.
Send forth Your Spirit and they shall be created. And You shall renew the face of the earth.
O, God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit, did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that by the same Holy Spirit we may be truly wise and ever enjoy His consolations, Through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

7 The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul.
The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple.
8 The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart.
The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes.
9 The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever.
The ordinances of the LORD are sure and altogether righteous.
10 They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold;
they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb.
11 By them is your servant warned;
in keeping them there is great reward.
Psalm 19 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Job 31:24-40 – Acts 15:12-21 – John 11:30-44

Heavenly Father, we pray You to cradle our nation in Your arms as You did in its infancy. Only by living in the spirit of Your laws can we reach true liberty and maturity. Guide and foster leaders of integrity and righteousness with the vision and courage of our forefathers.
We pray You to till the soil of our nation with true ecumenism and renewal that all men will find the freedom and happiness that exists only through Your grace.
Amen.

1 How joyful are those who fear the Lord—
all who follow his ways!
2 You will enjoy the fruit of your labor.
How joyful and prosperous you will be!
3 Your wife will be like a fruitful grapevine,
flourishing within your home.
Your children will be like vigorous young olive trees
as they sit around your table.
4 That is the Lord’s blessing
for those who fear him.
5 May the Lord continually bless you from Zion.
May you see Jerusalem prosper as long as you live.
6 May you live to enjoy your grandchildren.
May Israel have peace!
Psalm 128 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Job 31:1-23 – Acts 15:1-11 – John 11:17-29

Lord, give me strength when every fiber of my body cries out in protest. When my impulse is to cave in "just this once" bolster my willpower. I am a creature of habit, Lord. Help me find new, pure ones to replace the old. And until those are second nature, bear me up when my resolve is tested and tried. Help me see beyond this moment - to sacrifice this small, fleeting pleasure for my future good - to preserve this temple You have bestowed upon me. Amen.
(Susan Scott)

1 How long, O LORD? Will you forget me forever?
How long will you hide your face from me?
2 How long must I wrestle with my thoughts
and every day have sorrow in my heart?
How long will my enemy triumph over me?
3 Look on me and answer, O LORD my God.
Give light to my eyes, or I will sleep in death;
4 my enemy will say, "I have overcome him,"
and my foes will rejoice when I fall.
5 But I trust in your unfailing love;
my heart rejoices in your salvation.
6 I will sing to the LORD,
for he has been good to me.
Psalm 135 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Job 30:1-2, 16-31 – Acts 14:19-28 – John 11:1-16