PRAYER & READING
Morning Prayer
O God, my Father, who makes the light to shine out of the darkness, I thank you for waking me to see the light of this new day. Grant unto me to waste none of its hours; to soil none of its moments; to neglect none of its opportunities; to fail in none of its duties. Bring me to the evening time undefeated by any temptation, at peace with myself, at peace with those I meet, and at peace with you. This I ask for your love’s sake. Amen
Matthew Chapter 5 : verses 1 – 12
Introduction to the Sermon on the Mount
5 Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, 2 and he began to teach them.
The Beatitudes
He said:
3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4 Blessed are those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
5 Blessed are the meek,
for they will inherit the earth.
6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled.
7 Blessed are the merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
8 Blessed are the pure in heart,
for they will see God.
9 Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called children of God.
10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Evening Prayer
O God, my Father, I thank you for this day which is passing from me now.
For any glimpse of beauty, I have seen;
For any echo of your truth that I have heard;
For any kindness I have received;
For any good that I have been enabled to do;
And for any temptation which you gave me the grace to overcome:
I thank you, O God.
I ask your forgiveness for anything which has spoiled and marred this day.
For any word which now I wish that I had never spoken;
For any deed which now I wish that I had never done;
For everything which makes me ashamed when I remember it;
Forgive me, O God.
Eternal God, who gave me this day for work and the night for rest, grant me, as I go to rest, a good night’s sleep; and wake refreshed for tomorrow, better able to serve you and to serve those I meet.
This I ask, through Jesus Christ my Lord.
