Opening
Lord of quiet fire, I come before you. Steady my mind. Soften my will. Let your love be my light.
Hymn
Abide with me; fast falls the eventide; The darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide. When other helpers fail and comforts flee, Help of the helpless, O abide with me. I need Thy presence every passing hour. What but Thy grace can foil the tempter's power? Who, like Thyself, my guide and stay can be? Through cloud and sunshine, Lord, abide with me. — Henry Francis Lyte (public domain)
Psalmody
Antiphon
Forgive what was harsh; heal what was hurried; keep what was true.
Psalm
I have loved: therefore, the Lord will heed the voice of my prayer. For he has inclined his ear to me. And in my days, I will call upon him. The Lord is merciful and just, and our God shows compassion. The Lord is the keeper of little ones. I was humbled, and he freed me. Turn again, my soul, to your rest. For the Lord has done good to you.
Psalm 114:1–2; 115:5–7 · Catholic Public Domain Version (public domain)
Glory Be
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Antiphon
Forgive what was harsh; heal what was hurried; keep what was true.
Reading
1 Peter 5:5b–11 Similarly, young persons, be subject to the elders. And infuse all humility among one another, for God resists the arrogant, but to the humble he gives grace. And so, be humbled under the powerful hand of God, so that he may exalt you in the time of visitation. Cast all your cares upon him, for he takes care of you. Be sober and vigilant. For your adversary, the devil, is like a roaring lion, traveling around and seeking those whom he might devour. Resist him by being strong in faith, being aware that the same passions afflict those who are your brothers in the world. But the God of all grace, who has called us to his eternal glory in Christ Jesus, will himself perfect, confirm, and establish us, after a brief time of suffering. To him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. — 1 Peter 5:5b–11 · Catholic Public Domain Version (public domain)
Reflection
Review the day without harshness. Thank God for three gifts. Ask mercy for one failure. Rest in being a beloved child, not a finished project.
Intercession
For hearts that are tired, bring rest. For hearts that are restless, bring purpose. For hearts that are hard, bring compassion. For the world you love, kindle justice and peace. Lord, hear our prayer.
Closing prayer
Lord Jesus, keep this prayer alive in me through the day. Guard my steps, purify my desires, and teach me to love as you love. Amen.
Silence
If you can, rest in quiet for half a minute before you rise.