Morning Prayer ... Retired

[ajusmc]

Give peace, Lord, to those who wait for you and your prophets will proclaim you as you deserve. Hear the prayers of your servant and of your people Israel. (Sir 36)

Almighty God, you who are our creator and guide, may we know of your forgiveness in our lives and follow you with a burning desire to proclaim your word to all those whom we encounter on our path in life. Hear the prayers of your faithful people, who long to see your face. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Your words, O Lord, give joy to my heart, your teaching is light to my eyes. (Ps. 18)

Lord God, as you created each one of us in your image and likeness, your words give joy to our hearts. May we always share this joy with others and be attentive to your teachings in our lives, for we are so much in need of your guidance in our ever-changing world. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Come, you whom my father has blessed, says the Lord; I was ill and you comforted me. I tell you, anything you did for one of my brothers, you did for me. (Mt.25)

Lord Jesus, your teachings and examples of the beatitudes give us great encouragement to reach out to those in need. May we hear the cries of those who are in pain, hurting and feeling so alone. We ask for your grace to be attentive to their cries and to respond in service to their needs. Amen.

[ajusmc]

The Lord says; my plans for you are peace and not disaster; when you call to me, I will listen to you, and I will bring you back to the place from which I exiled you. (Jeremiah 29)

Lord, you are the source of all that is good. In our lives, there are moments when we fall from the road that brings us to you. In these moments, there are times that our darkness and fear can appear to overwhelm us. May your saving grace bring us back on the road that leads to you and may we grow stronger in our trust of your presence and care of us in our journey in life. Amen

[snowyowl]

19: Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
20: teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you; AND LO, I AM WITH YOU ALWAYS, TO THE CLOSE OF THE AGE."

[ajusmc]

I am the light of the world, says the Lord. The one who follows me will have the light of life. (John 8)

Lord Jesus, you are the light of life. As we journey on this earth, we ask for the strength and courage to be attentive to this light of life in our lives. Help us to bear your Word to those that we encounter each day and guide all of us to be a reflection of your love. Amen.

[ajusmc]

The Lord is good to those who hope in him, to those who are searching. (Lam 3)

Lord Jesus, we are in need of your loving presence to guide us along our journey in life. In this journey, we recognize your presence as we search to find peace in our lives. You are our hope and may we always turn to you for guidance and strength. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Prayer for Those Searching for God

O Lord my God,
Teach my heart this day where and how to see you,
Where and how to find you.
You have made me and remade me,
And you have bestowed on me
All the good things I possess,
And still I do not know you.
I have not yet done that
For which I was made.
Teach me to seek you,
For I cannot seek you
Unless you teach me,
Or find you
Unless you show yourself to me.
Let me seek you in my desire,
Let me desire you in my seeking.
Let me find you by loving you,
Let me love you when I find you.

- St. Anselm

[ajusmc]

The Word of God is living and effective, discerning reflections and thoughts of the heart. (Hebrews 4)

Lord, help us to remain faithful to your Word. Be our source of power and inspiration, as we strive to follow you in our lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Sing and play music in your hearts to the Lord, always giving thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Eph 5)

Lord Jesus, on this day that we celebrate the tradition of Thanksgiving, let us pause to give you thanks for the wonders of your creations, for the gift of life, for the bountiful resources our world possesses and for your loving presence in our lives. We ask that you open our hearts to the concern of our neighbors and to those who are alone. We pray with grateful hearts for the grace to share your goodness with those whom we encounter each day. Amen.

[ajusmc]

If you, O Lord, laid bare our guilt, who could endure it? But you are forgiving, God of Israel. (Ps. 129)

Lord, be attentive to those who call upon you this day. In our humanness our hearts can at times be like stone. In these moments, help us to rely on your forgiveness and mercy and give us the grace of conversion to change our hardness of hearts into gentle loving beings. Amen.

[ajusmc]

The Lord will reign forever and will give his people the gift of peace. (Ps 29)

Lord, you are King of heaven and earth. Open our minds to hear your words, touch our lips to proclaim your words and open our hearts to feel your presence, so that we may be a faithful witness to your presence in our world. We pray that your graces will bring all humankind together in this world and that we will all be worthy to share a place in your kingdom for ever. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Prayer to Do What's Right

O Almighty and Everlasting God, Creator of Heaven, Earth, and the Universe, help me to be, to think, to act what is right, because it is right. Make me truthful, honest, and honorable in all things; make me intellectually honest for the sake of right and honor and without thought of reward to me. Give me the ability to be charitable, forgiving, and patient with my fellow men. Help me to understand their motives and their shortcomings, even as thou understandest mine! Amen.

- Robert E. Lee

[ajusmc]

Our Savior Jesus Christ has done away with death and brought us life through his gospel. (2Tim 1)

Lord Jesus, we all have trials and difficult moments in life that we must face. Amid these times, help us to remain faithful to your presence in our lives and help us to spread your loving presence to those who seem to think there is no hope. Help us to reveal that there is hope and that they are never alone, for you are with us always. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Do not abandon me, Lord, My God, do not go away from me! Hurry to help me, Lord, my Savior. (Ps.37)

God our creator, we need your help in order to offer you a fitting service and praise. May we live in this faith that we profess and continue to grow in our trust in your promise of eternal life. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Let my prayer come before you, Lord; listen and answer me. (Ps 87)

Lord Jesus, we are confident that you do listen and hear our prayers. Give us freedom of spirit and health in mind and body in order that we may do your work on this earth. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Psalm of Protection

The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?
When evil men advance against me to devour my flesh,
when my enemies and my foes attack me,
they will stumble and fall.
Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear;
though war break out against me, even then will I be confident.

- Psalms 27: 1-3

[ajusmc]

I shall live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life. (Ps 23)

Lord Jesus, as we walk this journey of faith may we become more aware of the need for us to take time in silence and reflect on your presence in our lives. May we come to know you in the silence of our hearts. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord. (Ps 122)

God our Father, you have shown us the path of life. May your face shine upon us as we ask for your mercy and forgiveness in our lives. By the faith revealed in the life of the centurion, who believe in your healing presence, may we bear witness to your healing presence in our own lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

A Heart to Love Thee

O Lord, who hast mercy upon all, take away from me my sins,
and mercifully kindle in me the fire of thy Holy Spirit.
Take away from me the heart of stone,
and give me a heart of flesh,
a heart to love and adore thee,
a heart to delight in thee,
to follow and to enjoy thee,
for Christ's sake.


- Ambrose of Milan (c. 339-97)

[ajusmc]

Prayer for Protection

The Light of God surrounds me;
The Love of God enfolds me;
The Power of God protects me;
The Presence of God watches over me;
Wherever I am, God is,
And all is well.

- James Dillet Freeman

[ajusmc]

Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. (Ps 118)

God our Father, we listen to the words of your Son and desire to follow in His footsteps. As we take time each day to spend in prayer with you and your Son, may we grow in our understanding of what it means to be a follower. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Seek the Lord while he can be found. Call on him while he is still near. (Is 55)

God our Father, we need your help in our lives. This day we call on you to give us hope when we feel discouraged, to give us peace in time of despair, to give us joy in times of sadness and to give us love in those moments that we feel alone, isolated and forgotten. We cry out to you, please hear our prayers this day and everyday of our lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

The Lord is my light and my salvation. (Ps 27)

Lord Jesus, we believe that you are our light and our salvation. Help us to believe more that you will always guide us on the path of life. Help us to grow in our trust of your presence in our lives and that you will never leave us. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Guardian Angel Prayer

Angel of God, my guardian dear,
to whom God's love commits me here;
Watch over me throughout the night,
keep me safe within your sight.

[ajusmc]

Justice shall flourish in his time and fullness of peace forever. (Ps 72)

Lord, we desire so much to live in peace and that justice will flourish in our time. Yet, our humanness gets in the way and we fall to temptations and live with our limitations. We are in need of your forgiveness in our lives and we need to reach out to those who are hurt by our selfishness and greed. Help us to recognize the need for your help and guidance in our lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Guide Us to Our Truest Selves

Boundless Sea of Love and Energy, our God,
may all your dreams for us come true:
your motherly imaginings, and your fatherly hopes,
your creative purposes everywhere in nature.
Guide us to our truest selves, co-creators of this environment.
Make us worthy inheritors
of the astonishing evolutionary reality in which we live.
May it be so.

- William Cleary

[ajusmc]

Prayer When I Can't Pray

I try to pray;
words don’t come.
I toss and turn
and feel nothing.
My mind is dry,
my heart is dull,
my soul longs
for life.
Hear my silent cry,
my God, hear me.
Let me not be
a shriveled reed
or an empty shell.
Breathe on me
and make me whole.
Give me passion
that I may love.
Then shall my tongue praise
your holy name
with words I do not yet know.
So be it.

- Vienna Cobb Anderson

[ajusmc]

Day by Day

Day by day, dear Lord of you
Three things I pray:
To see you more clearly,
To love you more dearly,
To follow you more nearly,
Day by day.

- St. Richard of Chichester

[ajusmc]

The Lord is kind and merciful; slow to anger and rich in compassion. (Ps 45)

Lord Jesus, in these days that we are living, there is much sadness and fear in our world. Help us to turn towards you for strength and courage to bear the tragedies and sorrows that we are facing and help us to grow in trust that we will know of your presence in our lives and in the world. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths; all humankind shall see the salvation of God. (Lk 3)

Lord, we come before you this day in our hope of loving you more each and every day. As we prepare our hearts and our lives to celebrate your birth, may we be blessed with hearts that are open to celebrate the gift of your life and with lives that will truly know your love for us. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Justice shall flourish in his time and fullness of peace forever.

Lord our God, we come before you this day in need of your help in our lives. We ask for your help in our times of weakness, that you will give us strength to bear witness to your presence in our world. During this time of uncertainty in our world, we need to see that justice will flourish and peace will be on this earth. Amen.

[ajusmc]

The Lord our God comes in strength and will fill his servants with joy. (Is 40)

God of mercy and consolation, we stand before you this day in need of your mercy and consolation. We desire to have our lives touched by this joy and to stand in your presence in gratitude for this gift of joy in our lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Help Me to Stay Sober

Dear God,
Thank you for this day. Help me to stay clean and sober, just for this day. Help me to recognize your hand in all things. Thank you for the blessings I understand and the ones I don't. Thank you for the miracles I see and the ones I don't. Thank you for your spirit who always abides in me. I ask that I may be with your spirit today. Cleanse my mind of all darkness and fill it with love and light. Let me be o.k. with this day no matter what it brings. Thank you for everything that's in my life and everything that's not.

- Beliefnet

[ajusmc]

In Time of Need

Heavenly Father,
in my present need,
help me to believe
that you are aware of my anxiety
and will do what is best for me.
Give me the strength to trust you
and put the present and future in your hands.
Grant this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Come Emmanuel, God's presence among us, our King. Our judge: save us, Lord our God!

Lord Jesus, we are in need of your mercy. As we approach the celebration of Christmas, may we feel your saving presence and respond with open hearts to your mercy and forgiveness. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Prayer for the Homeless

O God, as Naomi and Ruth journeyed from one land to another seeking a home, we ask your blessing upon all who are homeless in this world. You promised to your chosen people a land flowing with milk and honey; so inspire us to desire the accomplishment of your will that we may work for the settlement of those who are homeless in a place of peace, protection, and nurture, flowing with opportunity, blessing, and hope. Amen.

- Vienna Cobb Anderson

[ajusmc]

Come, King of all nations, source of your Church's unity and faith: save all humankind, your own creations!

Lord Jesus, we desire to live in unity and in faith. Help us to respond with open ears to hear your words of wisdom and to share with those around us your unconditional love for us. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Christmas Eve Prayer

Most Loving Father, thank you for this night and for all it represents. Thank you for the hope you bestow, the peace you bring, the love you pour out, and the joy you give. We praise you most of all for Jesus, your Word made flesh. May he light our way as the holy star lit the way for the wise men. Amen

- Rev. Richard J. Fairchild

[ajusmc]

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ[a] the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." Luke 2:8-12

Today as we celabrate your birth 3 gifts have been offered to you

Born a King on Bethlehem's plain Gold I bring to crown Him again King forever, ceasing never over us all to rein.

Frankincense to offer have I Incense owns a Deity nigh Pray'r and praising, all men raising Worship Him, God most high.

Myrrh is mine, its bitter perfume breathes of life of gathering gloom sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying sealed in the stone-cold tomb.

Let us remember your birth in all that we day each day of our lives with a simple prayer and a thank you for all that you taught us to believe in.

Merry Christmas to all
~Dana~~~~~AJ~
Pointman Ministries

[ajusmc]

Gratitude for Friends and Family

To our friends who have become family
and our family who have become friends-
May you be blessed with the same
love and care you've given us.

- Mary Maude Daniels

[ajusmc]

In Praise of God

You are holy, Lord, the only God,
and Your deeds are wonderful.
You are strong.
You are great.
You are the Most High.
You are Almighty.
You, Holy Father are King of heaven and earth.
You are Three and One, Lord God, all Good.
You are Good, all Good, supreme Good,
Lord God, living and true.
You are love. You are wisdom.
You are humility. You are endurance.
You are rest. You are peace.
You are joy and gladness.
You are justice and moderation.
You are all our riches, and You suffice for us.
You are beauty.
You are gentleness.
You are our protector.
You are our guardian and defender.
You are our courage. You are our haven and our hope.
You are our faith, our great consolation.
You are our eternal life, Great and Wonderful Lord,
God Almighty, Merciful Saviour.

- St. Francis of Assisi

[ajusmc]

Prayer to Resist Overeating

Dear God,
right now, I surrender to You
my temptation to binge,
to rebel, to misuse the food
You've blessed me with.
Fill me instead
with Your Spirit and grace
and grant me the power
and will to STOP indulging
when I am no longer hungry.
Thank You that, by Your Spirit, within me,
I have the ability to resist
the urge to overeat today. Amen.

- Heather Kopp

[ajusmc]

Blessed are those who fear the Lord and walk in his ways. (Ps 128)

Lord God, as we try to live according to your laws and ways, we sometimes fall short of being faithful and we become discouraged. For there are many distractions that surround us and it can become a bit overwhelming for us. We are in need of your guidance, your graces and your love to help us walk in your ways. Amen.

[ajusmc]

A child is born for us, a son is given to us; dominion is laid on his shoulder, and he shall be called Wonderful-Counsellor. (Is 9)

Gracious and loving God, as we come to a close of yet another year in our life, the signs all around us remind us to recall what we have lived this past year. In doing so, we recall the gift of your Son and how he is the salvation of humankind. We give you praise and thanksgiving for all that has been and we pray in gratitude for your presence in our lives over this past year. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Prayer for the New Year

Grant me the strength from day to day
To bear what burdens come my way.
Grant me throughout this bright New Year
More to endure and less to fear.
Help me live that I may be
From spite and petty malice free.

Let me not bitterly complain
When cherished hopes of mine prove vain,
Or spoil with deeds of hate and rage
Some fair tomorrow's spotless page.
Lord, as the days shall come and go
In courage let me stronger grow.

...

Lord, as the New Year dawns today
Help me to put my faults away.
Let me be big in little things;
Grant me the joy which friendship brings.
Keep me from selfishness and spite;
Let me be wise in what is right.

A happy New Year! Grant that I
May bring no tear to any eye.
When this New Year in time shall end
Let it be said I've played the friend,
Have lived and loved and labored here,
And made of it a happy year.

- Edgar A. Guest


May the everyones New Year be Blessed with the Lord

Dana ~~~~~~~~~~~~AJ

[ajusmc]

In the past God spoke to our fathers through the prophets; now He speaks to us through His Son. (Heb 1)

Lord God, open our ears to hear the Words of your Son, touch our lips to proclaim your presence in our lives and in our world and heal our broken hearts so that we may love our neighbors. As we begin this new year, may we be living examples of your Son's actions on earth and be peacemakers in situations that we find ourselves living in at this time. Amen.

[ajusmc]

The Word of God became a man and lived among us. He enabled those who accepted him to become the children of God. (Jn 1)

Father, your Son was born like us but without sin. As we journey in our faith, may we be reborn in him and help us to be free from sin, so that we may follow you with a pure heart and soul. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Prayer for Doctors and Nurses

Sanctify, O Lord, those whom you have called to the study and practice of the arts of healing, and to the prevention of disease and pain. Strengthen them by your life-giving Spirit, that by their ministries the health of the community may be promoted and your creation glorified; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Be Mindful, O Lord

Be mindful, O Lord, of those who travel by land, by sea, and by air; of the old and young, the sick, the suffering, the sorrowing, the afflicted, the captives, the needy and the poor; and upon them all send forth Thy mercies, for Thou art the Giver of all good things. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Prayer for Epiphany

Dear Jesus, as You led the Three Kings to You by the light of a star, please draw us ever closer to You by the light of Faith. Help us to desire You as ardently as they did. Give us the grace to overcome all the obstacles that keep us far from You. May we, like them, have something to give You when we appear before You. Amen

[ajusmc]

For the Lonely and Depressed

God bless all who are battling those inner demons of depression, loneliness, unworthiness, and hopelessness. Shine Your warm Heavenly Light down upon all of us, Lord, who are looking for our soul mates. Guide us to find peace, happiness, and contentment in our lives and within ourselves.
Amen.

- Beliefnet

[ajusmc]

Father Hear My Prayer

Father in heaven hear my prayer,
keep me in thy loving care.
Be my guide in all I do,
Bless all those who love me too.
Amen.

[ajusmc]

Prayer for Young People

God our Father, you see your children growing up in an unsteady and confusing world: Show them that your ways give more life than the ways of the world, and that following you is better than chasing after selfish goals. Help them to take failure, not as a measure of their worth, but as a chance for a new start. Give them strength to hold their faith in you, and to keep alive their joy in your creation; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

[ajusmc]

In the beginning, before all ages, the Word was God; that Word was born a man to save the world. (Jn 1)

Lord Jesus, we desire so much to keep your Commandments and to live by your words. We ask that you grace us with the gift of light so that we may always walk in the light of life. Amen.

[ajusmc]

God's love for us was revealed when he sent his only Son into our world, so that we could have life through him. ( 1Jn 4)

God our Father, we are thankful for the gift of life. We are reminded of how precious this gift of life is in our world. Your Son revealed for us the love you have for us. May we grow in our love for you and for our brothers and sisters as we take this moment in prayer to be with you. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Prayer for Those With Cancer


Bless, O God,
all who struggle with cancer.
Empower them with hope
for each and every day.
Provide them with loving
and tender care, laughter,
and the support of love.
Grant them
courage when they are afraid,
comfort when they are in pain,
and your blessing
when all else seems hopeless,
that in their fight with illness
they may continue to praise you
and glorify your name.
Amen.

- Vienna Cobb Anderson

[ajusmc]

Here I am Lord, I come to do your will. (Ps 19)

Lord, here I am, I have come to do your will. I desire so much to remain faithful to your plans in my life. At times, I feel a pull in the opposite direction. In these times, I am more in need of your strength and courage. May you bless me with the grace of strength and courage to remain faithful to all that you ask me to live. Amen.

[ajusmc]

I call you my friends, says the Lord, for I have made known to you all that the Father has told me. (Jn 15)

Lord Jesus, it is so good to hear that you call us friends. We desire so much to be your friend. You have made known to us all that the Father has told you and we want to hear more. In this wanting, we desire to believe more deeply in your words and in your life. As we journey with our friends and family, guide us to hear your words over and over again, so that we may develop a natural response to hear your words and to do the will of the One who sent you. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Prayer for Renewal

Hide Your face from my sins, and blot out all my iniquities. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence, and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and uphold me by Your generous Spirit.

- Psalms 51: 9-12

[ajusmc]

Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will. (Ps 40)

Lord, we come before you ready to do your will. Looking all around, the needs are so great that often times we can feel some discouragement. Let us take time this day to reflect on the words in Psalm 40 to give us strength and courage to pray the words, "here I am, Lord; I come to do your will". Amen.

[ajusmc]

For Those Coping With Divorce

Lord, be with this family as they transition into two separate households. Let your eternal light radiate throughout both homes, that this child may know your lovingkindness, as manifested by her parents, who love her, Lord. Let both this husband and wife grow strong in your love and live their lives according to Your will and not their own... I also pray for all children of divorce, that they have both their parents in their lives, and never doubt for one second that they are loved and cherished, and precious in Your sight. Thy will be done Lord, Amen.

- Beliefnet

[ajusmc]

The Future Is Full of Promise

The future is full of promise, Holy Mystery,
if only because we discern your forces of evolution at work everywhere.

Every opening daffodil, every growing child,
every glimmer of human enlightenment, every bodily process of healing -- tells us the future is not fearsome but is full of promise.

Your face is hidden, your name unknown:
still we turn to you in faith and confidence.

Creating Spirit, we hear your comforting voice
in the steady music of the unfolding of creation.

We give thanks to exist,
and to be the joy of your heart.
Amen.

- William Cleary

[ajusmc]

Forever I will sing the goodness of the Lord (Ps. 89)

God our creator, in coming before you in prayer this day, we stand in humility to sing of your goodness towards us. In our journey we are ever mindful of your presence and how awesome is your love for us. May we grow in humility to be able to sing for ever of your goodness in our lives. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

[ajusmc]

The Word of God became flesh and dwelt among us. To those who accepted him, he gave power to become children of God. (Jn 1)

Almighty and ever-present Father, hear our prayers as we call out to you. Help us to be bearers of peace in our world. To those who are troubled may we bring them peace and may our lives be a source of comfort to those who are in pain. By these actions, may they know of your presence in our world and in their lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

To the upright I will show the saving power of God. (Ps 50)

Lord Jesus, we come before you this day in prayer mindful of your love for us. Help us to follow you so that you may show us the saving power of God in our lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Lord, be my rock of safety, the stronghold that saves me. For the honor of your name, lead me and guide me. (Ps 30)

Lord Jesus, you are our rock and stronghold. We do honor your name and give you praise this day. We ask you to lead us and guide us as we walk this journey in faith. Help us to be ever mindful of your love for us. Amen.

[ajusmc]

The Word of God became flesh and dwelt among us. To those who accepted Him, He gave power to become children of God. (Jn 1)

God our Father, we come before you asking you to free us from the darkness that surrounds our world. Help us to walk in the light of life so we may called children of the light. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Prayer for Travelers

O Almighty and merciful God, who has commissioned your angels to guide and protect us, may they be our companions from our setting out until our return. Clothe us with their invisible protection; keep from us all danger of collision, of fire, of explosion, of falling; and finally, having preserved us from all evil, and especially from sin, guide us to our heavenly home. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Prayer for Marriage


Most gracious God, we give you thanks for your tender love in sending Jesus Christ to come among us, to be born of a human mother, and to make the way of the cross to be the way of life.

We thank you, also, for consecrating the union of man and woman in his Name.
By the power of your Holy Spirit, pour out the abundance of your blessing upon this man and this woman.
Defend them from every enemy.
Lead them into all peace.
Let their love for each other be a seal upon their hearts, a mantle about their shoulders, and a crown upon their foreheads.
Bless them in their work and in their companionship; in their sleeping and in their waking; in their joys and in their sorrows; in their life and in their death.
Finally, in your mercy, bring them to that table where your saints feast for ever in your heavenly home; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

[ajusmc]

I will look after my sheep, says the Lord, and I will raise up one shepherd who will pasture them. I, the Lord, will be their God. (Ezek 34)

God our Father, your Son gave us the example of what it means to be a true shepherd. In this day and age, we are in such need of your loving presence in our lives. Help us to look to you for encouragement and support as we strive to give witness to the values of what it means to be a Good Shepherd. Amen

[ajusmc]

Sing a new song to the Lord! Sing to the Lord, all the earth. Truth and beauty surround him, he lives in holiness and glory. (Ps 95)

All-powerful and ever-living God, help us to see the beauty that surrounds us. We are in need of truth in our world and in our lives. Often times we fall short, yet we desire so much to sing of your goodness in our lives. Let us take time this day to sing of this goodness and to share a moment of joy with those whom we encounter in this day. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Fire Captain's Prayer

Dear God,
Please guide me in my plight.
Help me think quickly, but safely.
Guild my hand to help those who are seeking knowledge.
Give me the wisdom to help the injured and the weak.
To help those who have no thrive for life.
Grant me the strength to fight the fire with assertive skill.
And God please grant me the ability to return home, to my family.
And, if in your wisdom I may give my life,
protect them from harm, no matter what the foe.
Amen

- Author Unknown

[ajusmc]

I Cannot Do This Alone

O God, early in the morning I cry to you.
Help me to pray
And to concentrate my thoughts on you:
I cannot do this alone.
In me there is darkness,
But with you there is light;
I am lonely, but you do not leave me;
I am feeble in heart, but with you there is help;
I am restless, but with you there is peace.
In me there is bitterness, but with you there is patience;
I do not understand your ways,
But you know the way for me…
Restore me to liberty,
And enable me to live now
That I may answer before you and before me.
Lord, whatever this day may bring,
Your name be praised.


- Dietrich Bonhoeffer

[ajusmc]

Receive and submit to the word planted in you; it can save your souls. (James 1)

God our Father, in your love for us, you keep us from harm. In this world we are faced with many challenges that pull us in many directions, sometimes in areas we would prefer not to be, yet find ourselves in. Help us and guide us to stand firm when faced with this struggle. For this day, we call upon you to be our strength and to give us hope to live our lives in your grace. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Prayer for Times of Fear

Almighty God, the Refuge of all that are distressed, grant unto us that, in all trouble of this our mortal life, we may flee to the knowledge of Thy lovingkindness and tender mercy; that so, sheltering ourselves therein, the storms of life may pass over us, and not shake the peace of God that is within us. Whatsoever this life may bring us, grant that it may never take from us the full faith that Thou art our Father. Grant us Thy light, that we may have life, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

- George Dawson

[snowyowl]

AJ thank you. It's been a rough time of late. My wife's illnesses have taken their toll on both of us.

[ajusmc]

The Lord is my light and my salvation. Who shall frighten me? The Lord is the defender of my life. Who shall make me tremble? (Ps 26)


Lord Jesus, we come before you this day asking for your graces to help us live a life in honesty and in truth. We recognize that you are our light and our salvation. In living in this honesty and truth you call us to hope for the promise of eternal life. May we always strive to live in your light. Amen.

[ajusmc]

AJ thank you. It's been a rough time of late. My wife's illnesses have taken their toll on both of us.
My prayers are for the both of you, for your wife to recover and to you Snowy to keep up your strenght to be thier for her moral support.

[ajusmc]

Prayer for Peace

Give us the wisdom to teach our children to love, to respect, and to be kind to each other so that they may grow with peace in mind. Let us learn to share all the good things that you provide for us on this Earth. Amen

[ajusmc]

Blessed are the poor in spirit, the kingdom of heaven is theirs. (Ps 146)

God our Father, help us to love you with our whole heart and soul and mind and help us to love others as you love us. In our world, we are in need of sharing the gift of your love to those we encounter in life. Help us to be ready to lend a hand when needed, to have a listening ear when someone needs to share and to have our hearts wide open to embrace those who are in need of a loving hug in their lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Lord, hear my voice when I call to you. You are my help; do not cast me off, do not desert me, my Savior God. (Ps 26)

Almighty God, you are our hope and our strength, without you we are weak. We come before you in humility asking for your graces to strengthen us and give us hope to continue to follow you in our lives. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Morning Prayer

O Lord, grant that my heart may be truly cleansed and filled with Thy Holy Spirit, and that I may arise to serve Thee, and lie down to sleep in entire confidence in Thee, and submission to Thy will, ready for life or for death. Let me live for the day, not overcharged with worldly cares, but feeling that my treasure is not here, and desiring truly to be joined to Thee in Thy heavenly kingdom, and to those who are already gone to Thee. O Lord, save me from sin, and guide me with Thy Spirit, and keep me in faithful obedience to Thee, through Jesus Christ Thy Son, our Lord.

- Rev. Thomas Arnold (1795-1842)

[ajusmc]

Prayer for the Brokenhearted

O God,
whose love restores
the brokenhearted of this world:
pour out your love,
we beseech you,
upon those who feel
lonely, abandoned, or unloved.
Strengthen their hope
to meet the days ahead;
give them the courage
to form life-giving friendships;
and bless them with the joy
of your eternal peace.
Amen.

- Vienna Cobb Anderson

[ajusmc]

God is the strength of his people. In him, we his chosen live in safety. Save us, Lord, who share in your life, and give us your blessing; be our shepherd forever. (Ps 27)

Lord Jesus, we ask for your guidance and protection as we walk this journey of faith. We desire so much to live in your grace and to do your will in our lives. Save us, Lord, this day and every day. Help us to ask for forgiveness when we need to and to receive your graces to stengthen us to follow you more faithfully each day. We ask this in your name. Amen.

[ajusmc]

God is the strength of his people. In him, we his chosen live in safety. Save us, Lord, who share in your life, and give us your blessing; be our shepherd forever. (Ps 27)

Lord Jesus, we ask for your guidance and protection as we walk this journey of faith. We desire so much to live in your grace and to do your will in our lives. Save us, Lord, this day and every day. Help us to ask for forgiveness when we need to and to receive your graces to stengthen us to follow you more faithfully each day. We ask this in your name. Amen.

[ajusmc]

God is the strength of his people. In him, we his chosen live in safety. Save us, Lord, who share in your life, and give us your blessing; be our shepherd forever. (Ps 27)

Lord Jesus, we ask for your guidance and protection as we walk this journey of faith. We desire so much to live in your grace and to do your will in our lives. Save us, Lord, this day and every day. Help us to ask for forgiveness when we need to and to receive your graces to stengthen us to follow you more faithfully each day. We ask this in your name. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Happy are they who have kept the word with a generous heart and yield its harvest through perseverance. (Lk 8)

God our Father, we, your children, are called to walk in the light. Help us to scatter the darkness of hatred and sin in our lives and be carriers of your light to the world. My our hearts be filled with your love so that we may share this love with others. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Happy are they who have kept the word with a generous heart and yield its harvest through perseverance. (Lk 8)

God our Father, we, your children, are called to walk in the light. Help us to scatter the darkness of hatred and sin in our lives and be carriers of your light to the world. My our hearts be filled with your love so that we may share this love with others. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Happy are they who have kept the word with a generous heart and yield its harvest through perseverance. (Lk 8)

God our Father, we, your children, are called to walk in the light. Help us to scatter the darkness of hatred and sin in our lives and be carriers of your light to the world. My our hearts be filled with your love so that we may share this love with others. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Lord, on the day I called for help, you answered me. (Ps. 138)

Lord, we come before you this day with grateful hearts for we are confident that you hear and answer our prayers. We give you thanks for the many wonderful ways you give us the courage to knock, to seek and to find you in our journey. May we always have the couarge to turn to you no matter where we may find ourselves in this journey. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Bless the Lord

Behold now, bless the Lord, all you servants of the Lord,
you that stand by night in the house of the Lord.

Lift up your hands in the holy place and bless the Lord;
the Lord who made heaven and earth bless you out of Zion.

- Psalms 134

[ajusmc]

Prayer for Protection

Blessed are thy Saints, O God and King, who have traveled over the tempestuous sea of this mortal life, and have made the harbour of peace and felicity. Watch over us who are still in our dangerous voyage; and remember such as lie exposed to the rough storms of trouble and temptations. Frail is our vessel, and the ocean is wide; but as in thy mercy thou hast set our course, so steer the vessel of our life toward the everlasting shore of peace, and bring us at length to the quiet haven of our heart's desire, where thou, O our God, are blessed, and livest and reignest for ever and ever.

- St. Augustine

[ajusmc]

God himself is my help. The Lord upholds my life. I will offer you a willing sacrifice; I will praise your name, O Lord, for its goodness. (Ps 53)

God our Father, we come before you in prayer to ask for your graces to help us serve you in faith, hope and love. In our journey, we are grateful for the many ways you touch our lives and guide us to live a life in faithfulness to you. May the gift of your life continue to grow in us and may we always be ready to share your presence with those to whom we encounter in our journey. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Be merciful O Lord, for we have sinned. (Ps 51)

Lord Jesus, as we walk this journey in faith, we are mindful that we have sinned and are in great need of your mercy. We ask for your guidance as we walk in faith and protect us from all that is evil in our world. Amen

[ajusmc]

Seek good and not evil so that you may live, and the Lord will be with you. (Amos 5:14)

Lord, we are in need of your help as we strive to live a faithful and honest journey in following you. Help us to perservere in this journey and grow closer to you so that we may always know of your love for us. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Teach me your ways, O Lord, that I may be faithful in your sight. (Ps. 86)

Lord Jesus Christ, when you walked this earth you gave examples of what we are to do in order to follow you in this journey of faith. Free us from what binds us from totally following you with our whole heart and to grow in our trust in your presence in our lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it.

Lord, many times, we are deaf to your words and we are led into unhealthy and sinful ways. May we be humble enough to come to you asking for forgiveness and to celebrate the sacrament of reconciliation. In this sacrament your graces are given to us, we are healed and we can hear your words. May we always know of your forgiveness and grace in our lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Luther's Evening Prayer

My Heavenly Father, I thank You, through Jesus Christ, Your beloved Son, that You have protected me, by Your grace. Forgive, I pray, all my sins and the evil I have done. Protect me, by Your grace, tonight. I put myself in your care, body and soul and all that I have. Let Your holy angels be with me, so that the evil enemy will not gain power over me. Amen.

- Martin Luther

[ajusmc]

My God of justice, you answer my cry; you come to my help when I am in trouble. (Ps. 40)

Lord God, there are times in our journey when we are aware that we are in need of your mercy. This day, we come before you and cry out for this gift of your mercy in our lives. We are confident that you hear our prayers and that we will receive your mercy. We also remember all those who served our country as President. We are thankful for their leadership and dedication in serving our country. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Give Us, O Lord, a Steadfast Heart

Give us, O Lord, a steadfast heart, which no unworthy affection may drag downwards; give us an unconquered heart, which no tribulation can wear out; give us an upright heart, which no unworthy purpose may tempt aside. Bestow upon us also, O Lord our God, understanding to know you, diligence to seek you, wisdom to find you, and a faithfulness that may finally embrace you; through Jesus Christ our Lord.

- Thomas Aquinas

[ajusmc]

Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned. (Ps 51)

Lord Jesus, as we begin the discipline of Lent may we be reminded each and everyday of our lives of your love for us. During this Lenten season may we take time to reflect on our times of difficulties, struggles, sinfulness and on those moments when we have not made your presence known to those around us. May we grow in our love for you and may we continue to strive to live in a grace-filled life with you. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Please Forgive Me

Dear Father God,
I know that I've done wrong through my thoughts, my actions, and the things that I've said, sometimes by mistake and sometimes on purpose. I have gone my own way and not put you at the center of my life. I am very sorry and ask that you please forgive me. I thank you that I can ask you this because I truly believe that your Son, Jesus, died in my place and, through Him, I have access to you. Please help me to follow you more closely every day and live a life which gives glory back to you. I pray this in Jesus' name.
Amen.

[ajusmc]

Prayer for Those in the Armed Services

O God of Mercy, we beg You now to protect in a special way those who are fighting for us and for the country we love. Bless them and take care of them. If they are tired, give them strength. If they are wounded and suffering, give them comfort. If they are lonely, touch them with Your gentle hand and let them know that You are near them. Grant them strength, wisdom and help through Your power and Your limitless love. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you. (Ps. 33)

God our Father, we are in need of your help in order for us to hear your Son. In your gentleness, please enlighten us with your word, so that we may share your presence with those that we encounter in our journey in life. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you. (Ps. 33)

God our Father, we are in need of your help in order for us to hear your Son. In your gentleness, please enlighten us with your word, so that we may share your presence with those that we encounter in our journey in life. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Redeem me, Lord, and have mercy on me; my foot is set on the right path, I worship you in the great assembly. (Ps 26)

God our Father, we come before you this day in the hope of experiencing your mercy and love. As we pray, may we become more aware of your great gift of mercy in our lives and cry out to you in our need. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Give light to my eyes, Lord, lest I sleep in death, and my enemy says: I have overcome him. (Ps 13)

Lord, we ask that you watch over your Church and in your loving kindness grant us the gift of your unconditional love. Our world is in such need of your love and to have others who will give witness to your presence in this world. Help us to bear this witness to those whom we encounter in our journey in life and give us the strength to share our love of you with others. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Do not abandon me, Lord. My God, do not go away from me! Hurry to help me, Lord, my Savior.

Lord Jesus, we come before you this day asking that we recieve the grace to always be mindful of your presence in our lives. There are times where we sometimes feel that we are abandoned by you. Yet it is because we turn our backs on you and allow our own humanness to get in the way of your presence and grace. Help us to turn towards you in our struggles and in our joys and always praise you for the gift of life. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Happy are they who have kept the word with a generous heart, and yield a harvest through perseverance. (Lk 8:15)

God our Father, we are mindful of how we need to reflect on our lives and make some decisions that will help us return to you with all of our hearts. We ask that you send your Spirit to guide us and help us on this path of life. Amen.

[ajusmc]

In the Way of the Cross

Almighty God, whose most dear Son went not up to joy but first he suffered pain, and entered not into glory before he was crucified: Mercifully grant that we, walking in the way of the cross, may find it none other than the way of life and peace; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord. Amen.

[ajusmc]

I turn to you, Lord, in time of trouble, and you fill me with the joy of salvation. (Ps. 32)

Lord Jesus, trusting in your everlasting love for us, we turn to you in our hour of need. We rely on your graces to sustain us as we live situations that are painful and disturbing in our lives. We ask for your grace to strengthen us in this time of trouble and to bring us to a deeper level of peace in our lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Remember the marvels the Lord has done. (Ps 105)

Lord, we give you thanks this day as we recall all the marvelous things you have done for us. We ask that you open our hearts to a better understanding of your love for us and of your kindness in our lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Prayer When Words Won't Come

O My Father, I have moments of deep unrest -- moments when I know not what to ask by reason of the very excess of my wants. I have in these hours no words for Thee, no conscious prayers for Thee. My cry seems purely worldly; I want only the wings of a dove that I may flee away. Yet all the time Thou has accepted my unrest as a prayer. Thou has interpreted its cry for a dove's wings as a cry for Thee, Thou has received the nameless longings of my heart as the intercessions of Thy Spirit. They are not yet the intercessions of my spirit; I know not what to ask. But Thou knowest what I ask, O my God. Thou knowest the name of that need which lies beneath my speechless groan. Thou knowest that, because I am made in Thine image, I can find rest only in what gives rest to Thee; therefore Thou hast counted my unrest unto me for righteousness, and has called my groaning Thy Spirit's prayer. Amen.


- Rev. George Matheson (1842-1906)

[ajusmc]

Within your temple, we ponder your loving kindness, O God. As your name, so also your praise reaches to the ends of the earth; your right hand is filled with justice. (Ps 47)

Lord, teach us your decrees and show us the path of life. We seek you with all our hearts and treasure your promises in our lives. Help us this day to remain focused on your words and help us to live according to your law and statutes. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Lord, direct my steps as you have promised, and let no evil hold me in its power. (Ps. 119)

Lord, as we journey through these Lenten days, we are nourished by your word and are encouraged to turn towards you in our hour of need. We know in our hearts that we are loved by you and that you hold us in the palm of your hand. May we always know of your love for us and may we always respond to you with open hearts. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Prayer for Students

Father of Light and Wisdom,
thank you for giving me
a mind that can know
and a heart that can love.

Help me to keep learning every day of my life--
no matter what the subject may be.
Let me be convinced that all knowledge leads to you
and let me know how to find you and love you
in all the things you have made.

Encourage me when the studies are difficult
and when I am tempted to give up
Enlighten me when my brain is slow
and help me to grasp the truth held out to me.

Grant me the grace to put my knowledge to use
in building the kingdom of God on earth
so that I may enter the kingdom of God in heaven.
Amen.

[ajusmc]

An Avalanche of Blessings


Perhaps the invisible shield we hang over our children is made up of the values we instill in them, our desperate caring, our prayer for their safety. So we turn to prayer—for our children and maybe just as much for ourselves. We join our concern with God’s—the divine parent who loves them even more than we do.

We do not pray for our children in some wishful way, superstitiously trying to prevent all harm. Instead we take an active stance that recognizes our human limitations at the same time it bows before God’s power. “I will do everything I can to keep them safe,” we say. “But I’m imperfect. I call on you, great God and loving parent, to protect them when I cannot.”

We ask for an avalanche of blessings, all the best God has in store for them.


- Kathy Coffey

[ajusmc]

By the Passion of Your Blessed Son

O God, by the passion of your blessed Son you made an instrument of shameful death to be for us the means of life: Grant us so to glory in the cross of Christ, that we may gladly suffer shame and loss for the sake of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

[ajusmc]

I am the light of the world, says the Lord; whoever follows me will have the light of life. (John 8:12)

God our Father, you have given us the light of the world. You give us light to guide us on our journey in life. Fill our hearts with this light so that we may always follow you and may our actions be pleasing to you. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Lord, I put my trust in you; I shall be glad and rejoice in your mercy, because you have seen my affliction. (Ps 31)

God our Father, we come before you this day placing our trust in you and rejoicing in your mercy for us. We are mindful that you have seen our afflictions and have blessed us with the graces that we need to heal and give us strength to walk this journey in life. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Prayer for Forgiveness

Forgive me my sins, O Lord; forgive me the sins of my youth and the sins of mine age, the sins of my soul and the sins of my body, my secret and my whispering sins, the sins I have done to please myself and the sins I have done to please others. Forgive those sins which I know, and the sins which I know not; forgive them, O Lord, forgive them all of Thy great goodness. Amen

[ajusmc]

The Lord is kind and merciful. (Ps 145)

Lord God, we know of your kindness and mercy in our lives. We are so very grateful for the many ways that you touch our lives with your kindness and mercy and we take opportunities to share this experience with those whom we encounter in our daily lives. We bring before you in prayer those whom we have encountered in life, asking that they may continue to experience your kindness and mercy. Amen.

[ajusmc]

God so loved the world, he gave us his only Son, that all who believe in him might have eternal life. ( John 3:16)

God our Father, we come before you this day excited with the news that you loved us so much that you gave us your only Son, that all who believe will have the gift of eternal life. As we take time this day to reflect on how much you loved us and on this precious gift of your Son to us, we give you praise and thanksgiving for the many ways your Son's presence have changed us. May we never lose sight of your Son's presence in our lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Save me, O God, by your power, and grant me justice! God, hear my prayer; listen to my plea. (Ps 53)

Lord, we know that you are near to the broken hearted. You are the source of life and we are aware that you know our weaknesses, our every thoughts even before we share them. Please hear our intentions this day, for we are in need of your loving kindess and of your forgiving presence in our lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Happy are they who have kept the word with a generous heart, and yield a harvest through perseverance. (Luke 8:15)

Lord, you will show us the path of life. In this path of life, you guide us to yield a harvest through perseverance. Help us, we beg of you, to give us the strength to keep your word with a generous heart and thus enable us to serve you with our whole heart. Amen.

[ajusmc]

The Prayer of St. Patrick


I arise today
Through the strength of heaven;
Light of the sun,
Splendor of fire,
Speed of lightning,
Swiftness of the wind,
Depth of the sea,
Stability of the earth,
Firmness of the rock.

I arise today
Through God's strength to pilot me;
God's might to uphold me,
God's wisdom to guide me,
God's eye to look before me,
God's ear to hear me,
God's word to speak for me,
God's hand to guard me,
God's way to lie before me,
God's shield to protect me,
God's hosts to save me
Afar and anear,
Alone or in a mulitude.

Christ shield me today
Against wounding
Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me,
Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ on my right, Christ on my left,
Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit down,
Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,
Christ in the eye that sees me,
Christ in the ear that hears me.

I arise today
Through the mighty strength
Of the Lord of creation.

[ajusmc]

God, take pity on me! My enemies are crushing me; all day long they wage war on me. (Ps. 55)

Lord God, we are mindful that we have sinned and are in need of your forgiveness and mercy. Please take pity on us for we desire to do your will in our lives. Yet there are those around us who try to make us fall thus we become weak in our response, hence fall into danger and even sin. Help us to become stronger and to defend our faith and our decisions in life.

[ajusmc]

Lord, Settle My Soul

O Lord, this is all my desire -- to walk along the path of life that Thou hast appointed me, even as Jesus my Lord would walk along it, in steadfastness of faith, in meekness of spirit, in lowliness of heart, in gentleness of love. And because outward events have so much power in scattering my thoughts and disturbing the inward peace in which alone the voice of Thy spirit is heard, do Thou, gracious Lord, calm and settle my soul by that subduing power which alone can bring all thoughts and desires of the heart into captivity to Thyself. All I have is Thine; do Thou with all as seems best to Thy divine will; for I know not what is best. Let not the cares or duties of this life press on me too heavily; but lighten my burden, that I may follow Thy way in quietness, filled with thankfulness for Thy mercy, and rendering acceptable service unto Thee.

- Maria Hare (1798-1870)

[ajusmc]

Prayer for Bereaved Parents

God, you sacrificed your son so that we and our children would transcend physical death. We know that you grieved when he was crucified and that you grieve over all the atrocities done by men -- especially in your name. You know and understand grief as you know and understand all. You know best how to comfort these parents. Lift their hearts up to you and fill them with your peace. Your understanding is beyond our human comprehension, but give them the knowledge and faith to endure even that which they can't understand. Let them be aware of you always God, and help them to remember that your Love is Life that can never really be taken away.

-Beliefnet

[ajusmc]

If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts. (Ps 95)

Lord Jesus, we hear in the psalm for us not to harden our hearts, yet there are times when it is so much easier for us to turn away and pretend that we did not hear you. We come before you this day asking for forgiveness for those times when we denied hearing your voice and did not act to keep our hearts from becoming hard. Touch our hearts to make them bear witness to your love in our lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Lord in your great love, answer me. (Ps 69)

Lord Jesus, as we approach the days that reveal to us your death and resurrection, we are mindful of your love for us. We are so very grateful to you for your presence in our lives. May we never forget your great love for us and find time each day to say thank you. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Instruct me in the way of your rules, and I will reflect on all your wonders. (Ps.119)

Loving God, you are the source of all that is good. Instruct and guide us in your wisdom to follow your examples. In that we may reflect the great wonders of your creation and celebrate with joy the truth of your teachings. Amen.

[ajusmc]

At the name of Jesus every knee must bend, in heaven, on earth, and under the earth; Christ became obedient for us even to death, dying on the cross. (Phil 2)

God our Father, we kneel before you in prayer mindful of the many ways that you bless us on our journey. May we be ever mindful of the love you have for us and may we share this love with others. Amen.

[ajusmc]

I will rise and go to my father and tell him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. (Lk 15:18)

Lord Jesus, we hear in the Gospel about the son who asked forgiveness from his father and the father was filled with joy that his son returned to him. You give us this example so that we will return to you and that our lives will be filled with joy. However, it is not always easy for us to admit that we have done wrong and to ask forgiveness. Help us to grow in our humility and to return to you asking forgiveness and to feel your open arms ready to embrace us as the father embraced his son upon his return home. Amen

[ajusmc]

In you, Lord, I have found my peace. (Ps 131)

Almighty and ever-living God, Your presence in our lives is a gift we praise you for this day. Your Spirit guides us as we live in your peace. May we never forget that you hold us in the palm of your hand. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Your word O Lord, is truth; make us holy in the truth. (John 17)


Lord, we come before you as humble followers seeking the truth in life. Often times, our human weaknesses cause us to fall and lose sight of your truth. Help us to know your reconciling presence in our lives and your deep desire for us to live in your truth. Amen.

[ajusmc]

The Lord hears the cry of the poor. (Ps 34)

Lord God, You do hear the cry of the poor. We are confident that our prayers for those who are hurting, struggling, hungry and thirsty you hear. We are in need of your grace to be present to all those who cry out to you in their need. May we be ever open to receiving your grace in our lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

O Look at me and be merciful, for I am wretched and alone. See my hardship and my poverty, and pardon all my sins. (Ps 24)

God our Father, today we remember your Son's Passion as we celebrate Palm Sunday. Increase our faith in the words your Son gave to us while he walked this earth and bring our trust to its promised fulfillment in the joy of your kingdom. Amen.

[ajusmc]

The Lord says; my plans for you are peace and not disaster; when you call to me. I will listen to you, and I will bring you back to the place from which I exiled you. (Jer 29)

God our Father, we know that you love us and care for us as your children. We hear from Jeremiah, that the plans you have for us are peace and not disaster. Yet we live in a world where it is often difficult for us to trust in these words, for we see disasters and pain all around us. Help us to grow in our belief in the words from Jeremiah, that your plans for us are really for peace and not disaster. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Forever I will sing the goodness of the Lord (89)

God our creator, in coming before you in prayer, this day, we stand in humility to sing of your goodness toward us. In our journey we are ever mindful of your presence and how awesome is your love for us. May we grow in humility to be able to sing forever of your goodness. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Teach Us to Love

O God, perfect us in love, that we may conquer all selfishness and hatred of others; fill our hearts with Thy joy, and shed abroad in them Thy peace which passeth understanding; that so those murmurings and disputings to which we are too prone may be overcome. Make us long-suffering and gentle, and thus subdue our hastiness and angry tempers, and grant that we may bring forth the blessed fruits of the Spirit, to Thy praise and glory, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

- Rev. Henry Alford (1810-1871)

[ajusmc]

Walking in the Way of Jesus

Almighty and everliving God, in your tender love for the human race you sent your Son our Savior Jesus Christ to take upon him our nature, and to suffer death upon the cross, giving us the example of his great humility: Mercifully grant that we may walk in the way of his suffering, and also share in his resurrection; who lives and reigns for ever and ever. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Father into your hands I commend my spirit. (Ps 31)

Lord Jesus, we remember how you suffered for us on the cross. The day that you walked your journey to Calvary. At times, our crosses seem so heavy and we feel that we will not be able to continue the journey. Yet, you witness for us the faithfulness in carrying our crosses and give us the strength to continue our journey in life. May we never forget what you have done for us. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Defend me, Lord, from all my foes; take up your arms and come swiftly to my aid for you have the power to save me. (Ps. 34)

Lord Jesus, we come before you this day mindful of your presence in our lives. We are in need of your loving and gentle guidance to help us live more faithfully what we are called to live. May we take time this week to reflect on the precious gift of our faith and to give you thanks for the many ways you have touched our lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Easter Prayer for Renewal

Lord, send me a surprise.
One that catches me off guard
and makes me wonder.
Like Easter.

Send me a resurrection
when everything looks dead and buried.
Send me light
when the night seems too long.

Send me spring
when the cold and frozen season
seems endless.

Send me an idea
when my mind is empty.
Send me a thing to do
when I am just waiting around.

Send me a new friend
when I am alone.
Send me peace
when I'm afraid.

Send me a future
when it looks hopeless.
Send me Your resurrection
when I die, Jesus.


- Rev. Dr. Herbert Brokering

[ajusmc]

Lord, be my rock of safety, the stronghold that saves me. For the honor of your name lead me and save me.

Lord, help us to live in your presence. May we be guided by your examples of faith and trust so that we may live more freely in your loving presence. Amen

[ajusmc]

For ever I will sing of the goodness of the Lord. Ps. 89

Lord Jesus, as we reflect on the power of your resurrection, may we grow in faith to receive your goodness in life. May we always open our hearts and minds to feel and hear the goodness in our lives and take time each day to give you praise . Amen.

[ajusmc]

Lord send out your Spirit and renew the face of the earth. (Ps 104)

Lord Jesus, we rejoice in the gift of the Spirit that you have given to us in our lives. We come before you asking you to send us your Spirit and to renew the face of the earth. May we feel your Spirit in our lives and may your Spirit guide and direct us in our journey to the Father. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Prayer for Those Searching for God

O Lord my God,
Teach my heart this day where and how to see you,
Where and how to find you.
You have made me and remade me,
And you have bestowed on me
All the good things I possess,
And still I do not know you.
I have not yet done that
For which I was made.
Teach me to seek you,
For I cannot seek you
Unless you teach me,
Or find you
Unless you show yourself to me.
Let me seek you in my desire,
Let me desire you in my seeking.
Let me find you by loving you,
Let me love you when I find you.

- St. Anselm

[ajusmc]

God, come to my help. Lord, quickly give me assistance. You are the one who helps me and sets me free: Lord, do not be long in coming. (Ps 69)

God our Father, we bring before you our life which is blessed with the giftedness that flows from you. May we continue to share our giftedness with those whom we encounter in our journey in life and may we always remember that without you we are nothing. Amen.

[ajusmc]

In my justice I shall see your face, O Lord; when your glory appears, my joy will be full. (Ps 16)

Lord Jesus, we hear in the psalm that in your justice we shall see your face. Help us this day to see you in those whom we meet in our work, our friends and our family members. Help us to respond to them with love especially when we feel betrayed, when there is a lack of trust present and when we sense there is little hope in getting an honest response from them. Help us to generate a more welcoming atmosphere so all of us can grow in our love for you and be able to see you more clearly in those whom we encounter this day. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Prayer for Those Seeking Meaning

Eternal Wisdom,
source of life and grace,
bless all who are seeking
the meaning of life.
Endow them with courage
to risk the unknown.
Bless them with wonder
to be still and rejoice.
Anoint them with wisdom
to understand the potential
of their dreams.
Blessed is your name,
now and evermore. Amen.

- Vienna Cobb Anderson

[ajusmc]

Christ now raised from the dead will never die again; death no longer has power over him. Alleluia! (Rom 6)

Lord Jesus, you were obedient, even to death on a cross. We pray for the courage and strength to follow in your footsteps and to come to you when in need of your healing presence. We hunger for the joy that you give us in this Easter Season. Amen.

[ajusmc]

The Lord is my light and my salvation. (Ps 27)

God our Father, by the waters of baptism you give new life to the faithful. We come before you in awe of your presence in our life and in the beauty of life that surrounds us. May we look at our lives as precious gifts and may we grow in our respect for all of life that is around us. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Prayer for Spring

Oh, give us pleasure in the flowers to-day;
And give us not to think so far away
As the uncertain harvest; keep us here
All simply in the springing of the year.

Oh, give us pleasure in the orchard white,
Like nothing else by day, like ghosts by night;
And make us happy in the happy bees,
The swarm dilating round the perfect trees.

And make us happy in the darting bird
That suddenly above the bees is heard,
The meteor that thrusts in with needle bill,
And off a blossom in midair stands still.

For this is love and nothing else is love,
The which it is reserved for God above
To sanctify to what far ends He will,
But which it only needs that we fulfill.

- Robert Frost

[ajusmc]

Thank You for My Life


Dear God, thank you for my life on this earth, however challenging or not.

Thank you for giving me free will to love and be loved, to make my own decisions, to learn from my mistakes, to laugh when I am happy, to cry when I am sad.

Thank you for my family, my friends, my pets, my colleagues, and for every other living creature I meet along my journey.

Thank you for giving me strength to overcome adversity, to do what's right for the benefit of the greater good, to rise above negativity.

Thank you for giving me hope for an end to world suffering, pain, and war, for a beginning of a world filled with light and everlasting love.

- Debbie Gisonni

[ajusmc]

My soul is longing and pining for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh sing for joy to the living God. (Ps 84)

Lord Jesus, as the words in the psalm reveal, we are longing and pining to be in the courts of the Lord. Through your grace flowing through our lives, may we be ready to enter your courts singing for joy and thanksgiving for your presence. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Let all the earth cry out to God with joy; praise the glory of his name; proclaim his glorious praise, alleluia! (Ps 65)

God our Father, may we look forward with hope to our resurrection, for you have made us your sons and daughters, and have restored the joy of our youth. May we bear witness to this resurrection in all that we do and in who we are. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Prayer for the Beginning of the Day

O Lord, grant me to greet the coming day in peace, help me in all things to rely upon your holy will. In every hour of the day reveal your will to me. Bless my dealings with all who surround me. Teach me to treat all that comes to throughout the day with peace of soul and with firm conviction that your will governs all. In all my deeds and words, guide my thoughts and feelings. In unforeseen events, let me not forget that all are sent by you. Teach me to act firmly and wisely, without embittering and embarrassing others. Give me strength to bear the fatigue of the coming day with all that it shall bring. Direct my will, teach me to pray. And you, yourself, pray in me. Amen.

- St. Philaret of Moscow

[ajusmc]

The Blessing of Unanswered Prayers

I asked for strength that I might achieve;
I was made weak that I might learn humbly to obey.
I asked for health that I might do greater things;
I was given infirmity that I might do better things.
I asked for riches that I might be happy;
I was given poverty that I might be wise.
I asked for power that I might have the praise of men;
I was given weakness that I might feel the need of God.
I asked for all things that I might enjoy life;
I was given life that I might enjoy all things.
I got nothing that I had asked for,
but eveything that I had hoped for.
Almost despite myself my unspoken prayers were answered;
I am, among all men, most richly blessed.

- Unknown Confederate soldier

[ajusmc]

Make Me an Instrument of Your Peace

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love,
Where there is injury, pardon
Where there is doubt, faith,
Where there is despair, hope,
Where there is darkness, light,
Where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much
seek to be consoled as to console,
not so much to be understood as to understand,
not so much to be loved, as to love;
for it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
it is in dying that we awake to eternal life.

- St. Francis of Assisi

[ajusmc]

By your blood, O Lord, you have redeemed us from every tribe and tongue, from every nation and people; you have made us into the kingdom of God, alleluia! (Rev 5)


God our Father, your Son died for us so that we may experience the gift of eternal life. We come before you in prayer mindful of your generous gift of eternal life and hoping that we will live with you forever. May our actions lead us to this joy. Amen.

[ajusmc]

For Those Who Serve Others

O Lord our heavenly Father, whose blessed Son came not to be served but to serve: Bless, we beseech thee, all who, following in his steps, give themselves to the service of others; that with wisdom, patience, and courage, they may minister in his name to the suffering, the friendless, and the needy; for the love of him who laid down his life for us, the same thy Son our Savior Jesus Christ, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Make Me Strong in Spirit

Make me strong in spirit,
Courageous in action,
Gentle of heart,

Let me act in wisdom,
Conquer my fear and doubt,
Discover my own hidden gifts,

Meet others with compassion,
Be a source of healing energies,
And face each day with hope and joy.

- Abby Willowroot

[ajusmc]

The Lord has been my strength; he has led me into freedom. He saved me because he loves me. (Ps 17)

Lord, at this time in our lives we are in such need of your guidance to remain faithful to following you in this journey that we walk. The world events and church situations have been very painful for us. We are in need of your peace and your mercy so that we may continue to respond with hope to the events and situations that we face. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Lord, you rescue me from raging enemies, you lift me up above my attackers, you deliver me from violent men. (Ps 17)

God of mercy, we call on you to hear our prayers this day. We ask that you enlighten our minds and give peace to our hearts, as we strive to follow you in doing good deeds. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen

[ajusmc]

Prayer of Thanks


Throughout all generations we will render thanks unto Thee
And declare Thy praise,
Evening, morning, and noon,
For our lives which are in Thy care,
For our souls which are in Thy keeping
For thy miracles which we witness daily,
And for Thy wondrous deeds and blessings toward us at all times.

[ajusmc]

Think on These Things

Whatsoever things are true,
Whatsoever things are honorable,
Whatsoever things are just,
Whatsoever things are pure,
Whatsoever things are lovely,
Whatsoever things are of good report;
If there be any virtue,
And if there be any praise,
Think on these things.

- Philippians 4

[ajusmc]

I came from the Father and have come into the world; now I am leaving the world and going back to the Father. (Jn. 16)

Jesus our Lord, we are so grateful for your presence and for your witness to the way we should interact with others, yet there are times that we fail to follow in your footsteps. We fail because we become too self-centered or we lack the strength to remain firm in believing in you. Help us by your grace to become more like you, especially when we have to interact with those that we dislike. Amen.

[ajusmc]

The Lord said: I will not leave you orphans. I will come back to you, and your hearts will rejoice. (Jn 14)


Jesus our Lord, you said many things when you walked this earth and we are reminded of them each day in the liturgy and when we take time in prayer. There are days when we feel like orphans as we lose sight of your presence and we tend to stray away from your teachings. When this happens, we do long to return to you and have our hearts rejoice in you once again. Amen

[ajusmc]

Lord, you rescue me from raging enemies, you lift me up above my attackers, you deliver me from violent men. (Ps 17)

God of mercy, we call on you to hear our prayers this day. We ask that you enlighten our minds and give peace to our hearts, as we strive to follow you in doing good deeds. Amen.

[ajusmc]

You are a people God claims as his own, to praise him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light, alleluia!

Lord Jesus, we come before you in prayer to ask for your grace to light our way as we walk this journey in faith. Mindful of your mercy in our lives, we ask for forgiveness for the times that we have not lived in your light and have been too proud to ask for your mercy. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Sing to God, O kingdom of the earth. (Ps. 68)

God our creator, we come before you in prayer this day mindful of the power of your spirit in our lives. May we serve you with all our hearts and grow in our love for you. Amen.

[ajusmc]

You have not chosen me; I have chosen you. Go and bear fruit that will last, alleluia. (Jn 15)

God our creator, we come before you and lift up in prayer all mothers, grandmothers, stepmothers and mothers to be who gave the gift of life. We give you thanks for their presence, talents and gifts which they share in our church, society and world. May all mothers know of your loving and gentle presence and may they always turn towards you in times of joy, sorrow and glory. Amen

[ajusmc]

I will be a witness to you in the world, O Lord. I will spread the knowledge of your name among my brothers, alleluia! (Ps. 17)

Lord Jesus, as we celebrate your Son's resurrection, so may we rejoice with all the saints when he returns in glory. For we are reminded through our baptism that we have received the Light of Christ and that we are called to share this light with others. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Prayer to Mary to Help Those in Need

Holy Mary,
help those in need,
give strength to the weak,
comfort the sorrowful,
pray for God's people,
assist the clergy,
intercede for all people.

Mary all who seek your help
experience your unfailing protection.
Amen.

[ajusmc]

The Lord led his people to freedom and they shouted with joy and gladness. (Ps 104)

Lord Jesus, we come before you in prayer this day shouting with joy and gladness in our hearts for all that you have done for us. Amen

[ajusmc]

Surround Me With Your Light

Surround me with your light, Jesus, and penetrate the very depths of my being with that light. Let there remain no areas of darkness in me or in my family members, but transform our whole being with the healing light of your love. Open me completely to receive your love, Jesus. Thank you for being our family healer and my personal healer.

- Author Unknown

[ajusmc]

I will send to you the Spirit of truth, says the Lord; he will guide you to all truth. (Jn 16)

Lord Jesus, we come before you in prayer this day mindful of the need for truth in our lives. We are living in some painful and difficult times in our lives and we are in need of your Spirit of truth to guide us in our journey. May we open our hearts and minds to receive your Spirit of truth into our lives and may we have the courage to name our truth in all that we do and say. Amen

[ajusmc]

The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord. (Ps 33)

God our Father, by this Easter mystery you touch our lives with the healing power of your love. You have given us the freedom of the children of God. We pray that we will always know of your love for us as your children. Amen.

[ajusmc]

God, our protector, keep us in mind: always give strength to your people. For if we can be with you even one day, it is better than a thousand without you. (Ps. 83)

Loving and caring God, you protect us as we walk this journey of faith with you. May we strive to achieve all that you have in store for us on this earth, so we may live with you in glory forever. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

[ajusmc]

The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord; by the word of the Lord the heavens were made, alleluia. (Ps 32)

God our Father, though your people walk in the valley of darkness no evil should they fear; for they follow in faith the call of the shepherd whom you have sent for their hope and strength. May we follow the Good Shepherd and be attentive to His voice when he calls out to gather us together. Amen

[ajusmc]

Let us shout out our joy and happiness, and give glory to God, the Lord of all, because he is our King, alleluia. (Rev 19)


Lord Jesus, we come before you this day with joyful hearts ready to shout with joy the news of your resurrection and gift to us of eternal life. Help us to share this great news with all those whom we encounter on our journey in life. Amen

[ajusmc]

The Lord led his people out of slavery. He drowned their enemies in the Sea. (Ps 77)

God our Father, you gave us the Easter mystery as our covenant of reconciliation. May the new birth we celebrate show its effects in the way we live. Amen

[ajusmc]

Prayer for the Human Family

Mother and Father of the world,
we pray for the whole human family.

Many nations are torn by war.
Grant them peace
and healing of their divisions.

Many communities are filled with crime.
Grant them deliverance from fear
and the hope of renewal.

Many families are divided by hate.
Grant them unity
and the blessing of love.

Many children are abandoned and afraid.
Grant them someone who loves them
and the promise of a future.
Amen.

- Vienna Cobb Anderson

[ajusmc]

The Lord led his people to freedom and they shouted with joy and gladness. (Ps 104)

Lord Jesus, we come before you in prayer this day shouting with joy and gladness in our hearts for all that you have done for us. As we celebrate this Easter joy, may we be mindful of the many ways that you bless us each day with your love. We ask this in your name. Amen.

[ajusmc]

One thing I seek: to dwell in the house of the Lord. (Ps 27)


God our creator, we come before you this day aware that we need to place our needs before you and to seek a place to dwell in your house. May we know of your welcome and may we enter with hearts full of hope and peace so that we may be a witness to your words and to your life. Amen

[ajusmc]

Memorial Day is a day of remembrance

Lord, as we commemorate all the U.S. men and women who died in military service for their country. For without the sacrafices that they were willing to make for those of us to enjoy many freedoms.


"TAPS"

Day is done,
Gone the sun,
From the lakes,
From the hills
From the sky
All is well,
Safely rest,
God is nigh.

[ajusmc]

Prayer for Fallen Soldiers

Dear Lord Jesus and Mary, Mother of God,
Hold all these brave souls in the palm of your hand, comfort them and their families.

Send angels of protection, love, and comfort to all the service men and women still at war,
bring them home safely and comfort their families.

We ask all our prayers in Jesus' name. Amen.

- Beliefnet

[ajusmc]

Christ loved us and has washed away our sins with his blood, and has made us a kingdom of priests to serve his God and Father, alleluia. (Rev 1)

Father, in glorifying Christ, you open the way to eternal life. May our sharing in this gift increase our love and make our faith grow stronger. May our lives be living examples of your presence in our lives. Amen

[ajusmc]

The Lord is my light and my salvation. Who shall frighten me? The Lord is the defender of my life. Who shall make me tremble? (Ps 26)

God of wisdom and love, you are the source of all that is good, we ask that you send us your Spirit to guide and teach us of your truth in our journey in life. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Save us Lord our God, and gather us together from the nations, that we may proclaim your holy name and glory in your praise. (Ps 105)

Lord our God, help us to love you with all our hearts and to love eveyone as you love them. At times, it is so difficult to love those who have hurt us, done wrong to us and have brought injury to our lives. Help us to be forgiving, accepting and welcoming of them in our lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

I will not leave you orphans, says the Lord. I will come back to you, and your hearts will rejoice. (Jn 14)

Lord Jesus, in the scriptures we hear that you will not leave us orphans and that you will come back and our hearts will rejoice. By your gift of grace, may we feel the warmth of your Spirit in our lives, so that we can truly know that you will not leave us orphans. Amen

[ajusmc]

Prayer for Friendship

You have blessed us, O God,
with the gift of friendship,
the bonding of persons
in a circle of love.
We thank you for such a blessing:
for friends who love us,
who share our sorrows,
who laugh with us in celebration,
who bear our pain,
who need us as we need them,
who weep as we weep,
who hold us when words fail,
and who give us the freedom
to be ourselves.
Bless our friends with health,
wholeness, life, and love.
Amen.

- Vienna Cobb Anderson

[ajusmc]

Prayer for Peace

O God, you will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are fixed on you; for in returning and rest we shall be saved; in quietness and trust shall be our strength.

- Isaiah 26:3; 30:15

[ajusmc]

Lord, hear my voice when I call to you. You are my help; do not cast me off, do not desert me, my Savior God. (Ps 26)

Lord Jesus, we come before you confident that you hear our voices and will respond to our cry for help. We realize that without you we are in great danger of falling into unhealthy situations in our lives that will pull us away from you. We ask for the grace to grow in our trust, confidence and belief in your unconditional love for us in our lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Prayer to Do God's Will

Dearest Lord, teach me to be generous;
Teach me to serve thee as thou deservest;
To give and not to count the cost,
To fight and not to seek for rest,
To labour and not to seek reward,
Save that of knowing that I do thy will.

- St. Ignatius of Loyola

[ajusmc]

God is the strength of his people. In him, we his chosen live in safety. Save us, Lord, who share in your life, and give us your blessing; be our shepherd for ever. (Ps 27)

God our Father, we ask that you guide and protect us as we strive to follow you in our lives. We ask that you grant us an unfailing respect for your name and keep us always in your love. Amen

[ajusmc]

When you walked at the head of your people, O God, and lived with them on their journey, the earth shook at your presence, and the skies poured forth their rain, alleluia! (Ps. 67)

Lord Jesus, you assured your disciples that even though you had to leave them you would always be with them. Help us to feel your presence in our lives and reassure us that you are always with us, as we walk this journey of faith on earth. Amen

[ajusmc]

Let us shout out our joy and happiness, and give glory to God, the Lord of all, because he is our King, alleluia! (Rev 19)

God our Father, may we look forward with hope to our resurrection, for you have made us your sons and daughters, and restored the joy of our youth. Amen

[ajusmc]

The Lord sent me to bring glad tidings to the poor, and to proclaim liberty to captives. (Lk 4:18)

Lord Jesus, we strive to be so attentive to those around us in need of hearing your words and of being freed in order to live your examples in their lives. Help us to be attentive to their needs and to respond to them with openness and in love. Amen

[ajusmc]

The Lord fed his people with the finest wheat and honey; their hunger was satisfied. (Ps 80)

Lord Jesus Christ, we worship you living among us in the sacrament of your body and blood. May we offer to our Father in Heaven a solemn pledge of undivided love. May we offer to our brothers and sisters a life poured out in loving service of that kingdom where you live with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

[ajusmc]

The Spirit of truth will testify to me, says the Lord, and you also will testify. (Jn 15)

God of mercy, may our celebration of your Son's resurrection help us to experience its effect in our lives. May we be more aware of the many graces that are present in our relationship with you and may we share your presence with those who cross our path in life. Amen

[ajusmc]

Prayer for Those Whose Loved Ones Are Missing

Loving God, the hope and protector of all humankind; bless those whose loved ones are missing. The agony of not knowing whether someone is living or dead is a daily torture. The uncertainty of life’s future relationships hangs in limbo. Hope rides a roller coaster. Yet each day must be lived. Give unto your people the blessing of your grace that they may face each day with courage and hope. Guard their families from further danger and harm and hold them in the blessing of your love. Amen.

- Vienna Cobb Anderson

[ajusmc]

The Spirit of God is upon me; he has anointed me. He sent me to bring good news to the poor, and to heal the broken-hearted. (Lk 4)

Lord Jesus, we hear your words this day of bringing good news to the poor and to heal the broken-hearted. We are in such need of your presence in our world. There are so many people who desire to hear your words and to be healed of their sadness and pain. May we be instruments of your healing presence and bring good news to those whom we meet each day. Amen

[ajusmc]

In my justice I shall see your face, O Lord; when your glory appears, my joy will be full. (Ps 16)

God our Father, we come before you this day eager to have the promise of seeing you face to face come true for us in our lives. We live in a time where there is so much fear and mistrust, that at times we allow this to roll over into our relationship with you. May we grow stronger in our belief that one day we will see you face to face and that our joy will be full. Amen

[ajusmc]

God himself is my help. The Lord upholds my life. I will offer you a willing sacrifice; I will praise your name, O Lord, for its goodness. (Ps 53)

Lord Jesus, we are in need of your mercy in our lives. We focus our prayer to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and ask that His mercy be shown to us as we ask for forgiveness is our lives. May we be filled with your gift of understanding so that we may be a witness to your presence and praise your name every day of our lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

We are his people, the sheep of his flock. (Ps 100)

Lord Jesus, you gave us the example of what a Good Shepherd is all about. When a sheep is lost, you leave and go and find the one lost. We know that when the shepherd speaks the sheep can hear his voice. We hear in the psalm that we are your people, the sheep of your flock. May we always be open to hearing your voice and to following you in our journey. When we are lost, may we be found and brought back to the fold. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Your words, Lord are spirit and life; you have the words of everlasting life.

Lord Jesus, we come together in prayer mindful of your presence in life. Today we remember in a special way all those who are fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers and all who have a fatherly role. May they know of their responsibilities to their children and grandchildren. As living witnesses to the faith, may they always give good examples and may their familes know of your love. Amen

[ajusmc]

Whoever loves me will keep my word, says the Lord, and my Father will love him and we will come to him. (Jn 14:23)

Ever-living God, we come before you in prayer mindful of your goodness in our lives. Help us to celebrate our joy in the resurrection of the Lord and to express the love we celebrate. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Lord, be true to your covenant, forget not the life of your poor ones forever. Rise up, O God, and defend your cause; do not ignore the shouts of your enemies. (Ps 73)

God our Father, we recognize the gift it is to call you Father. We, your children, come before you this day in a spirit of gratitude for the many ways you have blessed our lives. May we forever be grateful for the gift of your presence and may we always come to you to celebrate the joys in life and to ask for your guidance and forgiveness. Amen

[ajusmc]

God, our protector, keep us in mind; always give strength to your people. For if we can be with you even one day, it is better than a thousand without you. (Ps 83)

God our Father, your care extends beyond all boundaries of race and nation to dwell in the lives and hearts of all who follow your words. May we grow in our love for all humankind and learn each day to accept those who have been hurt by prejudice and hatred. May we reach out to those who have been hurt and reveal to them your loving and kind embrace. Amen

[ajusmc]

Prayer for a Summer Day

Long warm days...
The pace of life slows...
A time for picnics and rest in the shade...

Lord,
help me to rest a while in the cooling shade of your presence.
Slow down my restless heart and fill me with gentle compassion for all your people.
Amen.

- Author Unknown

[ajusmc]

Listen, Lord, and answer me. Save your servant who trusts in you. I call to you all day long, have mercy on me, O Lord. (Ps 85)

Lord Jesus, we believe that when we call on you our prayers will be heard and answered. We count on your presence in our life and rely on your grace to give us strength to continue to be carriers of hope and joy to those whom we encounter on our journey. Amen

[ajusmc]

God is the strength of his people. In him, we his chosen live in safety. Save us, Lord, who share in your life, and give us your blessing; be our shepherd forever. (Ps 27)

Lord our God, we rejoice to call you friend. We are in need of your saving presence in our lives and we hope that you will be our shepherd forever. We desire to live in places that are safe and to rely on your strength when times are painful and difficult. Amen

[ajusmc]

Thank You for the Special Things

Dear God,
We thank you for our food,
for life and joy and play,
We thank you for the special things
you give to us this day. Amen

[ajusmc]

I call to you all day long, have mercy on me, O Lord. You are good and forgiving, full of love for all who call to you. (Ps 85)

God our Father, we desire to please you with our whole hearts. May you give us the graces we need in order to live out this desire and give us greater insight into your love for us. May we grow in wisdom and understanding of who you are for us in our lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

God is in his holy dwelling; he will give a home to the lonely, he gives power and strength to his people. (Ps 67)

God our Father, you are our protector. This day we come to you and are in need of your loving protection in our lives. May our eyes be open to see the splendor of your creation and to create the beauty of human life. May we strive to protect human life and to witness to this respect for life in all that we do and say. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Give peace, Lord, to those who wait for you and your prophets will proclaim you as you deserve. Hear the prayers of your servant and of your people Israel. (Ser 36)

Lord our God, you guide us and give us examples of ways which help us to serve you with all our hearts and experience your forgiveness. May we always know your love for us and may we respond with an open heart to your presence in our lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

The holy man fought to the death for the law of his God, never cowed by the threats of the wicked; his house was built on solid rock.

God our Father, we come before you this day in prayer, remembering, you called upon us to uphold your truth. May we foster peace and unity in your Church. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

[ajusmc]

You are Peter and upon this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it. (Mt.16)

God our Father, your Church has grown and has spread to far reaching places throughout the world. May we continue to give witness to your presence, about your Son's life and of the gifts present to us through the Holy Spirit. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Forever I will sing the goodness of the Lord. (Ps 89)

God our Creator, you have called us out of darkness to walk as children of the light. May we live according to your words and by the example of your Son Jesus, who died for our sins. May we always know your presence in our lives and live in a state of thanksgiving for your graces that you give to us in our journey in life. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

[ajusmc]

I am the Savior of all people, says the Lord. Whatever their troubles, I will answer their cry, and I will always be their God.

Lord Jesus, we come before you this day with grateful hearts for the many ways you guide us and nurture us in our journey in this life. May we be able to give assistance to those in need and be present to those who are hurting. May we show your loving care to those who are suffering injustices in their lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

I trust in the Lord; my soul trusts in his word. (Ps 130)

Lord Jesus, you gave us the best example of trust when you walked the road to Calvary and put your life into your Father's hands. May we receive the grace to give totally of our whole being to God and turst in His plan for our entire life. Amen

[ajusmc]

You are my God; I will give you praise, O my God, I will extol you, for you are my Savior. (Ps. 118)

God our Father, we come before you in prayer this day with open hearts, ready to hear your words spoken in our lives. We come before you ready to give you praise for the many blessings we have received. May we always remember to give you time each day to express our gratitude and to bring before you all that lives in the depths of our hearts. We ask this in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

[ajusmc]

O Lord, you have given everything its place in the world, and no one can make it otherwise. For it is your creation, the heavens and the earth and the stars; you are the Lord of all. (Esther 13)

Lord Jesus, we come to you this day in thanksgiving for the many ways we live in freedom. For there are many times we do not always make the healthiest choices in life and we are in need of your healing and forgiving presence. There are times when we do not take our responsibilities that go along with living in freedom seriously and we are in need of your grace in our lives to strive to continue to live in truth and in freedom. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Let all the earth cry out to God with joy.” (Psalm 66)

Lord God, guide our hearts and our choices as we enter this summer season. Help us to use your gifts of time and leisure well and keep us safe and healthy. Amen.

[ajusmc]

O Lord, you have given everything its place in the world, and no one can make it otherwise. For it is your creation, the heavens and the earth and the stars: you are the Lord of all.

God our creator, we come before you this day in praise and worship for the marvels of your creation. All of nature sings of your glory. May we always come before you in prayer, mindful of your greatness and to give praise and glory to the creation which you have blessed us with in our lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Prayer for Those In Despair

Send your life-giving Spirit
upon those who despair of living,
O generous and loving God.
If it is your will,
let them find rest from their labors
that they may have peace.
If there is a call they have not heard,
open their eyes and ears to know it
that they may find the joy of abundant life.
Grant them your blessing this day
and every day.
Amen.

- Vienna Cobb Anderson

[ajusmc]

Let hearts rejoice who search for the Lord. Seek the Lord and his strength, seek always the face of the Lord. (Ps 104)

Lord Jesus, as we come before you in prayer this day our hearts are filled with hope and joy in your presence in our lives. May we always know of your loving presence and may we come to believe in you even more with each new day. Amen

[ajusmc]

Do not abandon me, Lord. My God, do not go away from me, Lord, my Savior. (Ps 37)

Lord Jesus, we hear in the Psalm the cry and the plea that you do not abandon us. May we, with each new day, grow closer to you and never be in situations where we feel you have abandoned us. For in our times of need and pain, it can feel like you have left us. May your grace always be enough for us. Amen

[ajusmc]

Let my prayers come before you, Lord; listen, and answer me. (Ps 87)

Lord Jesus, there are days that we feel the burdens and challenges that this life brings to us. We ask that you help us become aware of how our prayers come before you like incense and rise up before you. May we grow in our belief that you listen and hear our prayers and respond to us in love and kindness. Amen

[ajusmc]

The Lord is my inheritance and my cup; he alone will give me my reward. The measuring line has marked a lovely place for me; my inheritance is my great delight. (Ps 16)

Lord Jesus, in the Psalm we hear that you alone will be our reward and that our inheritance is our great delight. Help us, this day, to place our trust and hope in you. For you are gentle and humble of heart and bring great joy into our lives. May we grow to believe even stronger in your presence in our lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

I call to you all day long, have mercy on me, O Lord. You are good and forgiving, full of love for all who call to you. (Ps 85)

Lord Jesus, we come before you this day asking for your mercy and forgiveness in our lives. We hear in the Psalm that you are full of love for all who call to you. This day we ask that you hear our cry to you and bless us with the graces that will help us to follow you with an open heart. Amen

[ajusmc]

If you are insulted for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of God rests upon you. (1Peter 4)

Lord Jesus, Let us this day, pray for all who and who have responsibilities in ecclesiatical affairs at this time in our history. May they be guided and inspired to remain faithful to the teachings of your words. We ask this in your name. Amen.

[ajusmc]

The seed that falls on good ground will yield a fruitful harvest. (Ps 65)

Lord Jesus, we hear in the Psalm that the seed that falls on good ground will yield a fruitful harvest. May our lives be planted in good soil and grow to become strong examples of what is needed to follow you with our whole hearts and to remain faithful to our yes in being witnesses to your presence in our lives. Amen.

[ajusmc]

Let the peoples declare the wisdom of the saints and the Church proclaim their praises; their names shall live for ever. (Sir 44)

God our Father, Let us pray for all, that they will remain faithful to their calling to serve God and that they will set good and healthy examples of what it means to live in humility before our God. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

[ajusmc]

I saw a man sitting on a high throne, being worshipped by a great number of angels who were singing together: This is he whose kingdom will last for ever.

Lord Jesus, Let us pray for all who devote their lives to the service of God's people and who give witness to the value of living a vowed life in our church and world. May they be strengthened and encouraged to remain faithful to their vows and to bear witness to the examples of Jesus. Amen.

[ajusmc]

We have opened a new thread for the Morning Prayers, it is located at the following link.

http://www.pmimchat.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1070

[ajusmc]

May all the earth give you worship and praise, and break into song to your name, O God, Most High. (Ps 65)

God our Father, we pray that you will hear our prayer and lead us to experience peace and joy in our lives. In this time of fear in our world, may you lead us to the way of peace and help us to share this peace with those whom we encounter in our daily lives. Amen

[ajusmc]

The Joy of His Resurrection

O God, who for our redemption gave your only-begotten Son to the death of the cross, and by his glorious resurrection delivered us from the power of our enemy: Grant us so to die daily to sin, that we may evermore live with him in the joy of his resurrection; who lives and reigns now and for ever. Amen.