Opening
O Lord, open my lips. And my mouth will announce your praise. — From Psalm 51
Hymn
Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty! Early in the morning our song shall rise to Thee; Holy, holy, holy! merciful and mighty! God in three Persons, blessed Trinity! Holy, holy, holy! though the darkness hide Thee, Though the eye of sinful man Thy glory may not see, Only Thou art holy; there is none beside Thee Perfect in power, in love, and purity. — Reginald Heber (public domain)
Psalmody
Antiphon
Your word is light for the path I cannot yet see.
Psalm
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my paths. I have sworn and I am determined to keep the judgments of your justice. I have been humbled, O Lord, exceedingly. Revive me according to your word. Make the voluntary offerings of my mouth well pleasing, O Lord, and teach me your judgments.
Psalm 118:105–108 · 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
Your word is light for the path I cannot yet see.
Reading
Ephesians 4:29–32 Let no evil words proceed from your mouth, but only what is good, toward the edification of faith, so as to bestow grace upon those who listen. And do not be willing to grieve the Holy Spirit of God, in whom you have been sealed, unto the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and anger and indignation and outcry and blasphemy be taken away from you, along with all malice. And be kind and merciful to one another, forgiving one another, just as God has forgiven you in Christ. — Ephesians 4:29–32 · Catholic Public Domain Version (public domain)
Reflection
Stay with the Word a little longer than feels comfortable. Notice one phrase that steadies you. Carry it into the next conversation you have.
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
Holy Spirit, seal what you have begun in me. Stay with me in work and rest, in joy and trial. Amen.
Silence
If you can, rest in quiet for half a minute before you rise.