BY: LYNETTE BALLARD, M.A., M.A.H.C.M.
SENIOR DIRECTOR, LEARNING INTEGRATION, CATHOLIC HEALTH ASSOCIATION, ST. LOUIS
CALL TO PRAYER
LEADER: We work to bring alive the Gospel vision of justice and peace, and sometimes that responsibility keeps us awake at night. As changes occur in technology, regulations and the economy, there are times we struggle to be positive about how we can accomplish our mission of love and healing. Scripture tells us we are not alone. In the darkness there is divine light.
READING (Matthew 5:14-16)
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus assures us that our work, no matter how challenging, glorifies God.
"You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father."
Pause for reflection.
LEADER: O God of peace, who has taught us that in returning and rest we shall be saved, in quietness and confidence shall be our strength: By the might of your Spirit, lift us to your presence, where we may be still and know that you are God.
RESPONSIVE READING
Group A: (from Psalm 77)
"I cry aloud to God, cry to God to hear me.
On the day of my distress I seek the Lord; by night my hands are raised unceasingly; I refuse to be consoled.
When I think of God, I groan; as I ponder, my spirit grows faint.
My eyes cannot close in sleep; I am troubled and cannot speak."
Group B: (Psalm 121)
"I raise my eyes toward the mountains. From where will my help come?
My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth.
God will not allow your foot to slip; your guardian does not sleep.
Truly, the guardian of Israel never slumbers nor sleeps.
The Lord is your guardian; the Lord is your shade at your right hand.
By day the sun cannot harm you, nor the moon by night.
The Lord will guard you from all evil, will always guard your life.
The Lord will guard your coming and going both now and forever."
LEADER: Glory to God, who guards us waking and sleeping, now and forever.
ALL: Glory be to God. Amen.
MUSIC
Suggested: "Morning Has Broken," words by Eleanor Farjeon, tune arranged by Marty Haugen.