Week 18 of Ordinary Time

First Light

Monday, August 3, 2026

Opening

O Lord, open my lips. And my mouth will announce your praise. — From Psalm 51

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

Word of God, open the Scriptures of my heart.

Psalm

The Lord directs me, and nothing will be lacking to me. He has settled me here, in a place of pasture. He has led me out to the water of refreshment. He has converted my soul. He has led me away on the paths of justice, for the sake of his name. For, even if I should walk in the midst of the shadow of death, I will fear no evils. For you are with me. Your rod and your staff, they have given me consolation.

Psalm 22:1–4 · 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

Word of God, open the Scriptures of my heart.

Reading

Jeremiah 15:16 I discovered your words and I consumed them. And your word became to me as the gladness and joy of my heart. For your name has been invoked over me, O Lord, the God of hosts. — Jeremiah 15:16 · 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

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.

Scripture: Psalm 22:1–4 · Catholic Public Domain Version (public domain); Jeremiah 15:16 · Catholic Public Domain Version (public domain)

An original Prayer on Fire offering for the hours of the day