PSALM 23
Lord, you are like a shepherd to me,
and so I have all that I need.
You give me rest
in meadows of green grass,
and you lead me to water
where I gain new life and strength.
You guide me
along the way that is best for me.
Even when I walk in darkness
and everything around seems like death,
you are there, walking with me,
and the promise
of your love and faithfulness
helps to conquer my fear.
In the sight of those who do me down,
you invite me
to sit at table with you.
There you offer me
even more than I need,
and you remind me
that I am significant and special.
You call me to goodness and kindness
every day of my life,
and your house will be my home
my whole life long.
Nicholas Henderson SJ
GOD IN MY DAILY LIFE
God to enfold me,
God to surround me,
God in my speaking,
God in my thinking.
God in my sleeping,
God in my waking,
God in my watching,
God in my hoping.
God in my life,
God in my lips,
God in my soul,
God in my heart.
God in my sufficing,
God in my slumber,
God in my ever-living soul,
God in mine eternity.
(Carmina Gadelica)
O Holy God, open unto me light for my darkness, courage for my fear, hope for my despair. O loving God, open unto me wisdom for my confusion, forgiveness for my sins, love for my hate. O God of peace, open unto me peace for my turmoil, joy for my sorrow, strength for my weakness. O generous God, open my heart to receive all your gifts. Howard Thurman
O God, protector of the poor and defender of the just;
in your kingdom the last become first,
the gentle are strong
and the lowly exalted.
Give us wisdom, that we might find in your servant Jesus
the pattern of true discipleship
and the grace to persevere in following him
who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever. ICEL Collects
