PRAYER & READING

Morning Prayer

Eternal and everblessed God, you are the Lord of all good life, who is with me always. 

Whatever comes to me today be my guide and strength, to comfort and help.

If temptation comes to me, give me grace to overcome evil and to do what is right.

If I have to make important decision's, give me grace to choose the right way, and refuse the wrong.

If it will be difficult to witness for you, give me courage never to be ashamed that I belong and serve you, Lord.

If things go well with me, keep me from all pride, and keep me from thinking that I do not need you.

If I shall know sorrow, failure, disappointment, loss, keep me from all despair, and help me never to give in.

Lord you are the Light of the World, be with me today, whatever light may shine or shadow fall, that I may ever live and walk as a child of light: through Jesus Christ my Lord. Amen.

Psalm 23 

New International Version (NIV)

A psalm of David.

1 The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
2     He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
3     he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
    for his name’s sake.
4 Even though I walk
    through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
    for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
    they comfort me.

5 You prepare a table before me
    in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
    my cup overflows.
6 Surely your goodness and love will follow me
    all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
    forever.

Evening Prayer

O God my Father, who has given me a life to live, and a task to do, bless me this evening.

Forgive me for the things which I have left half done today, and for the things which I have not even begun.

Forgive me for the plans that I made, and did not carry out; and for the dreams which are still only dreams.

Forgive me for the promises which I made to you Lord and to others, and did not keep.

Father, bless those who this night specially need your blessing.

Bless those on journeys by sea, land and air; those who this night will lie down in hunger and in cold; those who are in prison and disgrace; those who are ill and who will not sleep tonight; those who are sad and the slow dark hours are very lonely.

Bless each one of us, stay close through this night until day break and shadows flee away: through Jesus Christ my Lord. Amen.