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
Let your truth steady me before the day grows loud.
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
Let your truth steady me before the day grows loud.
Reading
Ezekiel 37:12b–14 Because of this, prophesy, and you shall say to them: Thus says the Lord God: Behold, I will open your tombs, and I will lead you away from your sepulchers, O my people. And I will lead you into the land of Israel. And you shall know that I am the Lord, when I will have opened your sepulchers, and when I will have led you away from your tombs, O my people. And I will place my Spirit within you, and you shall live. And I will cause you to rest upon your own soil. And you shall know that I, the Lord, have spoken and acted, says the Lord God.” — Ezekiel 37:12b–14 · 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.