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
Word of God, open the Scriptures of my heart.
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
Word of God, open the Scriptures of my heart.
Reading
2 Corinthians 12:7b–10 And lest the greatness of the revelations should extol me, there was given to me a prodding in my flesh: an angel of Satan, who struck me repeatedly. Because of this, three times I petitioned the Lord that it might be taken away from me. And he said to me: “My grace is sufficient for you. For virtue is perfected in weakness.” And so, willingly shall I glory in my weaknesses, so that the virtue of Christ may live within me. Because of this, I am pleased in my infirmity: in reproaches, in difficulties, in persecutions, in distresses, for the sake of Christ. For when I am weak, then I am powerful. — 2 Corinthians 12:7b–10 · 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.