Week 20 of Ordinary Time

First Light

Tuesday, August 18, 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

Your word is light for the path I cannot yet see.

Psalm

For I will behold your heavens, the works of your fingers: the moon and the stars, which you have founded. What is man, that you are mindful of him, or the son of man, that you visit him? You reduced him to a little less than the Angels; you have crowned him with glory and honor.

Psalm 8:4–6 · 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

Isaiah 55:1 All you who thirst, come to the waters. And you who have no money: hurry, buy and eat. Approach, buy wine and milk, without money and without barter. — Isaiah 55:1 · 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

Father, I place this hour in your hands. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Silence

If you can, rest in quiet for half a minute before you rise.

Scripture: Psalm 8:4–6 · Catholic Public Domain Version (public domain); Isaiah 55:1 · Catholic Public Domain Version (public domain)

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