Opening
O Lord, open my lips. And my mouth will announce your praise. — From Psalm 51
Hymn
Quiet flame within the morning, Kindle what is cold in me. Teach my hurried heart to listen, Teach my eyes Your light to see. In the work that waits before me, Be my patience, be my peace. Holy Spirit, keep me present Till the day finds its release. — Original, Prayer on Fire
Psalmody
Antiphon
Your word is light for the path I cannot yet see.
Psalm
O Lord, listen closely to my words. Understand my outcry. Attend to the voice of my prayer, my King and my God. For to you, I will pray. In the morning, Lord, you will hear my voice. In the morning, I will stand before you, and I will see. For you are not a God who wills iniquity.
Psalm 5:2–5 · 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 2:13–16 But now, in Christ Jesus, you, who were in times past far away, have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he is our peace. He made the two into one, by dissolving the intermediate wall of separation, of opposition, by his flesh, emptying the law of commandments by decree, so that he might join these two, in himself, into one new man, making peace and reconciling both to God, in one body, through the cross, destroying this opposition in himself. — Ephesians 2:13–16 · 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.