Eve of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Father in heaven, by whose grace the virgin mother of your incarnate Son was blessed in bearing him, but still more blessed in keeping your word: Grant us who honor the exaltation of her lowliness to follow the example of her devotion to your will; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen

1 Praise the Lord!

   Praise, O servants of the Lord, praise the name of the Lord!

2 Blessed be the name of the Lord

    from this time forth and forevermore!

3 From the rising of the sun to its setting,

    the name of the Lord is to be praised!

4 The Lord is high above all nations,

    and his glory above the heavens!

5 Who is like the Lord our God,

    who is seated on high,

6 who looks far down

    on the heavens and the earth?

7 He raises the poor from the dust

    and lifts the needy from the ash heap,

8 to make them sit with princes,

    with the princes of his people.

9 He gives the barren woman a home,

    making her the joyous mother of children.

   Praise the Lord!

Psalm 113 –English Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary

(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)

1 Samuel 2:1-10 – Ephesians 2:1-10 – Matthew 7:22-27