Pray As You Go - Daily Prayer

What is it you desire for this time of prayer today? Perhaps you have been praying for the same thing for a long time. Allow God to meet you in your desire as you enter into prayer as the Community of Taizé sings, ‘O Lord Hear My Prayer’

Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Luke.

Luke 11:5-13

And [Jesus] said to them, ‘Suppose one of you has a friend, and you go to him at midnight and say to him, “Friend, lend me three loaves of bread; for a friend of mine has arrived, and I have nothing to set before him.” And he answers from within, “Do not bother me; the door has already been locked, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot get up and give you anything.” I tell you, even though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, at least because of his persistence he will get up and give him whatever he needs.

‘So I say to you, Ask, and it will be given to you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you. For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. Is there anyone among you who, if your child asks for a fish, will give a snake instead of a fish? Or if the child asks for an egg, will give a scorpion? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!’

In today’s reading Jesus uses stories and imagery to speak about perseverance in prayer. Perhaps the original question was a little like ‘what’s the point?’, as his images are so clear.

Jesus’ image of the person knocking on the door in the middle of the night must have stirred memories in the listeners. Perhaps in you too? The lesson is clear: keep knocking. Do you trust God, even when the answer doesn’t meet your expectation?

Where there is need, there is persistence. Jesus speaks of how good parents keep their children from harm. Do we trust God the Father to give us what we truly need?

Notice that Jesus offers the Holy Spirit as a response to our prayer. As you listen to the passage again, reflect on how the influence of the Spirit on our hearts brings its own wisdom and understanding of what is needed.

Luke 11:5-13

And [Jesus] said to them, ‘Suppose one of you has a friend, and you go to him at midnight and say to him, “Friend, lend me three loaves of bread; for a friend of mine has arrived, and I have nothing to set before him.” And he answers from within, “Do not bother me; the door has already been locked, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot get up and give you anything.” I tell you, even though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, at least because of his persistence he will get up and give him whatever he needs.

‘So I say to you, Ask, and it will be given to you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you. For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. Is there anyone among you who, if your child asks for a fish, will give a snake instead of a fish? Or if the child asks for an egg, will give a scorpion? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!’

‘For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.’ In a time of prayer and trust in the Lord’s words, accept this invitation to be open to the shaping of the Spirit.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be

World without end

Amen

Tenebrae, directed by Nigel Short, sing the Magnificat from Rachmaninov’s Vespers, Mary’s song about the God who casts the mighty from their thrones and raises up the lowly, who fills the starving with good things and sends the rich away empty, a God who has no regard for riches, for power and status, but looks to the heart. As you enter into prayer today on this feast of Our Lady of the Rosary, can you put everything else aside for a moment, and humbly offer your heart to the Lord, reflecting on moments of Christ’s life?

Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Luke.

Luke 11:1-4

[Jesus] was praying in a certain place, and after he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, ‘Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.’ He said to them, ‘When you pray, say:

Father, hallowed be your name.

Your kingdom come.

Give us each day our daily bread.

And forgive us our sins,

for we ourselves forgive everyone indebted to us.

And do not bring us to the time of trial.’

Today is the feast of Our Lady of the Rosary and across the world countless people will pray the words that Jesus taught his disciples. What does it mean to you to be part of this legacy of prayer? Perhaps you are reminded of the person who first taught you to pray...

Here, we hear Luke’s account of how Jesus teaches his own prayer to the disciples. Are the disciples moved by how Jesus prays? Do they see the difference it makes? Is this what they are asking for? Or are they looking for the sense of connection that they see with John and his followers?

What is your connection with prayer? Is it an expectation, a witness, something that happens in community or when you have time? Or something deeper?

This prayer is often learned by rote and spoken by heart, but do we pray with the heart? As you listen to the passage again, look for the phrases that bring comfort - and those that challenge.

Luke 11:1-4

[Jesus] was praying in a certain place, and after he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, ‘Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.’ He said to them, ‘When you pray, say:

Father, hallowed be your name.

Your kingdom come.

Give us each day our daily bread.

And forgive us our sins,

for we ourselves forgive everyone indebted to us.

And do not bring us to the time of trial.’

Jesus teaches a prayer that is all about relationship with the Father, reliance on the Father, faith in the Father. For all those needs, tests and challenges that face us today, take this moment of prayer to do as Jesus taught us – to bring your needs before the Father who loves you.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be

World without end

Amen

Give yourself a moment to become still. You may wish to close your eyes, focus on your breathing for a few moments, or do whatever helps you settle into stillness with God, as Luke Parker sings, ‘In Quietness’.

Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Luke.

Luke 10:38-42

Now as they went on their way, [Jesus] entered a certain village, where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to what he was saying. But Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him and asked, ‘Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her then to help me.’ But the Lord answered her, ‘Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her.’

In today’s reading notice that, in the beginning, it is Martha who welcomes Jesus into her home. Take a moment to consider her expectations of how that visit would be received. Perhaps, when you begin your day, you have a sense of what is needed. What would be your response if Jesus called on you today?

As Jesus sits down, it is Mary who sits at his feet, ready to listen and be present to the Lord. Mary surely has tasks to do too, but she has chosen to be with Jesus. Consider times when you have made this choice. Perhaps it had meant stepping away from the everyday duties and expectations? What was it like to turn completely towards the Lord?

Many people defend Martha, perhaps defending the busyness of their own lives. Be aware of the feelings that stir in you as the scene plays out before you. Where are you drawn? To sympathise with the frustration of Martha’s busyness or accept the invitation of Mary’s stillness?

As we listen to the passage again, we remind ourselves that we have both sisters in our lives. Consider how you might be able to fulfil your desire to be closer to the Lord.

Luke 10:38-42

Now as they went on their way, [Jesus] entered a certain village, where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to what he was saying. But Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him and asked, ‘Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her then to help me.’ But the Lord answered her, ‘Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her.’

“Mary has chosen the better part.” In this time of prayer, ask the Lord to show you how to take your place at his feet.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be

World without end

Amen

Hannah Boesen with The Porter’s Gate sings, ‘As You Deserve’. As you arrive at prayer today, lay down your fear. Receive the grace of being in the presence of the God of love in this moment.

Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Luke.

Luke 10:25-37

Just then a lawyer stood up to test Jesus. ‘Teacher,’ he said, ‘what must I do to inherit eternal life?’ He said to him, ‘What is written in the law? What do you read there?’ He answered, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbour as yourself.’ And he said to him, ‘You have given the right answer; do this, and you will live.’

But wanting to justify himself, he asked Jesus, ‘And who is my neighbour?’ Jesus replied, ‘A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell into the hands of robbers, who stripped him, beat him, and went away, leaving him half dead. Now by chance a priest was going down that road; and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan while travelling came near him; and when he saw him, he was moved with pity. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, having poured oil and wine on them. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said, “Take care of him; and when I come back, I will repay you whatever more you spend.” Which of these three, do you think, was a neighbour to the man who fell into the hands of the robbers?’ He said, ‘The one who showed him mercy.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Go and do likewise.’

In today’s scripture we hear a parable, possibly the best known of all Jesus’ parables. It can be easy, with familiarity, to just jump to the end and offer a simple response. Instead, let’s take a moment to seek a deeper connection, using the imagination to place ourselves there within the experience.

Imagine the trail road through the desert wilderness connecting Jerusalem and Jericho. Along the ways, places quiet and remote enough for thieves to lie in wait.

You see the violence and the victim left wounded and barely alive, see the Levite and the priest pass by, distracted by duty. Notice your reaction to their response.

Can you remember a time in your life when you found it difficult to respond to the needs of others?

Now, consider the Samaritan. Take a moment to appreciate the gestures, the words, the reassurance that is offered. As he lifts the man and takes him to safety, reflect on the heart of the Samaritan and how they are able to respond with such generosity.

As you listen to the passage again, consider your own sense of responsibility to others. Who is your neighbour? How often is your response decided by duty or mercy? Perhaps you feel that you are the one injured – how does that feel?

‘A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell into the hands of robbers, who stripped him, beat him, and went away, leaving him half dead. Now by chance a priest was going down that road; and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan while travelling came near him; and when he saw him, he was moved with pity. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, having poured oil and wine on them. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said, “Take care of him; and when I come back, I will repay you whatever more you spend.” Which of these three, do you think, was a neighbour to the man who fell into the hands of the robbers?’ He said, ‘The one who showed him mercy.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Go and do likewise.’

‘And who is my neighbour?’ Jesus asks us to ‘go and do likewise’. In this moment of reflection, perhaps ask the Lord for the gift to act with mercy and not judgement.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be

World without end

Amen

On this feast day, The Phoenix Consort sings a version of The Absorbeat, a prayer attributed to St Francis of Assisi: ‘May the power of your love, Lord Christ, fiery and sweet as honey, so absorb our hearts as to withdraw them from all that is under heaven.’

Let these words seep into your heart and mind as you prepare to pray today.

Today’s reading is from Saint Paul’s Letter to the Philippians.

Philippians 4:6-9

Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honourable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.

Paul invites us not to be anxious, but to bring everything to God in prayer and thanksgiving. What worries or preoccupations are most present in your mind today? As you become aware of them, can you place them gently in God's hands? What changes when you remember that you do not carry these concerns alone?

Paul speaks of the peace of God, a peace that goes beyond understanding. Have you known moments when God's peace has touched your life, even in the midst of uncertainty? As you sit quietly, notice what is happening within you. Is there a sense of peace, however small, already present?

Paul encourages us to dwell on whatever is true, honourable, just, pure, lovely, and worthy of praise. As you listen to the reading again, notice any word or phrase that draws your attention. How has God's presence in your life awakened a desire for what is good, beautiful, or life-giving? What attracts your heart today?

Philippians 4:6-9

Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honourable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.

Paul reminds us that the God of peace is with us. In the quiet now, speak with Jesus as one friend speaks with another. Where do you long to grow? What rough edges, hopes, or desires would you like to place before him? Listen for what he may wish to offer you in return.

As this prayer comes to a close, we join with our Franciscan friends all over the world in marking 800 years since the death of St Francis of Assisi. To close, we will pray with a new song by One Hope Project based on St Francis’ prayer, ‘Instrument of Peace’.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be

World without end

Amen

As you begin this time of prayer, take a moment to become aware of yourself and your surroundings. If it helps, gently close your eyes. Notice the gift of simply being here. Become aware of your body, of the ground beneath you, of the sounds around you. Allow yourself to settle into this moment. As you grow still, become attuned to yourself. What is stirring within you today? What thoughts, feelings, or concerns do you bring to this time of prayer?

Now become attuned to God's presence. God is already here, waiting for you. You do not need to achieve anything or prove anything. Simply notice that you are in the presence of the One who knows and loves you. And become attuned to creation. Recall that you are part of a larger world, held within God's loving care. Allow yourself to rest for a moment within that awareness.

Before looking back over your week, ask God for the grace to see it as God sees it: with honesty, compassion, and gentle understanding.

Now cast your mind back over the days that have passed. Imagine your week as a canvas slowly being painted. The colours, shapes, and textures emerge little by little. Begin at the start of the week. What colours would you place there? Move slowly through the days. Notice where the landscape rises into hills and where it descends into valleys. What moments stand out? What memories draw your attention?

As you continue to look at this canvas, where do you notice signs of life, gratitude, peace, or joy? Where did you feel most fully yourself? Where did you feel close to God, to others, or to the beauty of creation?

Now gently turn your attention to the darker tones on the canvas. Where do you notice struggle, disappointment, anxiety, or sorrow? Which parts of the landscape feel difficult to revisit?

As you look at these places, can you notice where God might have been present? Perhaps in a person, a moment of strength, an unexpected kindness, or simply a quiet invitation to keep going.

Spend a few moments speaking openly with God about whatever has emerged during this prayer.

As we come to the end of this examen, place the whole canvas of your week into God's hands. The hills and the valleys, the bright colours and the darker shades, all belong within the larger picture that God is patiently bringing to life. Now look toward the week ahead. What paths lie before you? What hopes, questions, or challenges do you carry?

Speak with God as you would with a trusted friend and ask for whatever grace you need for the days to come. Let yourself rest in the knowledge that God will accompany you on every step of the journey.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be

World without end

Amen

Josh Garrels sings, ‘Children of the Earth’: ‘The older we become, we must become more like a child’. Reflect on the qualities of a child as you begin to pray. Can you bring yourself as utterly dependent on God the parent today?

Children of the earth

Once dust but now alive

Are living in tents of flesh and bone

We hold a spiritual fire

Set a flame in my heart

Illuminate the darkest hours

Where I wait before the dawn

To see the glory and the power

Of the Lord

Alleluia, Alleluia

Alleluia, Alleluia

The older we become

We must become more like a child

Believing there’s a land that lies beyond

All the things that we’ve seen

Make my mind free from fears

You know I can’t do it on my own

The way is high but we could fly over

When you heal our wings

Alleluia, Alleluia

Alleluia, Alleluia

Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew.

Matthew 18:1-5, 10

At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, ‘Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?’ He called a child, whom he put among them, and said, ‘Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.

‘Take care that you do not despise one of these little ones; for, I tell you, in heaven their angels continually see the face of my Father in heaven.’

The disciples come to Jesus with a question about greatness. Jesus responds in an unexpected way, placing a child in their midst. As you begin this time of prayer, think about the different communities of which you are a part: your family, workplace, parish, or circle of friends. What qualities are most valued there? What does true greatness look like in those places?

Jesus points to a child as an example for his disciples. A child can be full of trust, curiosity, and wonder, receiving the world as a gift. As you spend time with this image, what traces of that childlike spirit remain in you today? When do you feel most open to surprise, gratitude, or wonder? Is there something you once delighted in that you have lost touch with over the years?

Jesus invites his disciples to see things differently. His words challenge familiar ways of measuring success, importance, and achievement. As you hear the Gospel again, notice which words or images draw your attention. Is there an area of your life where you are being invited to grow in humility? What would it mean to approach that situation with the simplicity and openness of a child?

Matthew 18:1-5, 10

At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, ‘Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?’ He called a child, whom he put among them, and said, ‘Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.

‘Take care that you do not despise one of these little ones; for, I tell you, in heaven their angels continually see the face of my Father in heaven.’

Jesus welcomes the little ones and holds them close. As this prayer comes to an end, speak with him as you would with a trusted friend. Share whatever is on your heart. Perhaps there is a desire for greater simplicity, trust, or freedom. Ask Jesus to help you receive his kingdom with openness and wonder, and to recognise the dignity of those whom the world so often overlooks.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be

World without end

Amen

The monks of Pluscarden Abbey sing: Ego vos elegi ‘I have chosen you out of the world, so that you might go out and bear fruit, fruit that will last.’ As you listen to this chant, hear those words addressed to you, because they are addressed to you. God knows all your strengths and all your weaknesses, and has chosen you to bear fruit for him.

Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Luke.

Luke 10:1-12

After this the Lord appointed seventy others and sent them on ahead of him in pairs to every town and place where he himself intended to go. He said to them, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest. Go on your way. See, I am sending you out like lambs into the midst of wolves. Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and greet no one on the road. Whatever house you enter, first say, “Peace to this house!” And if anyone is there who shares in peace, your peace will rest on that person; but if not, it will return to you. Remain in the same house, eating and drinking whatever they provide, for the labourer deserves to be paid. Do not move about from house to house. Whenever you enter a town and its people welcome you, eat what is set before you; cure the sick who are there, and say to them, “The kingdom of God has come near to you.” But whenever you enter a town and they do not welcome you, go out into its streets and say, “Even the dust of your town that clings to our feet, we wipe off in protest against you. Yet know this: the kingdom of God has come near.” I tell you, on that day it will be more tolerable for Sodom than for that town.

Jesus sends the seventy-two ahead of him, preparing the way for his coming. As you begin this time of prayer, think of the places where you spend your ordinary days: your workplace, your home, your neighbourhood, or the people you meet along the way. Where might Jesus already be at work in those places? How might he be inviting you to prepare the way for him there?

Jesus is realistic about the challenges of the mission. Not everyone will welcome the message that the disciples bring. Have there been times when sharing your faith, your values, or even your hope has felt difficult? As you recall one of those moments, what emotions come back to you? What did that experience reveal about your trust in God?

The disciples are instructed to bring peace wherever they go. Sometimes that peace is received with open hearts. As you listen to the Gospel again, notice the encounters that Jesus imagines for his disciples. Who are the people who have welcomed you, encouraged you, or helped you grow in faith? When have you experienced the gifts of friendship, hospitality, or shared faith through others?

Luke 10:1-12

After this the Lord appointed seventy others and sent them on ahead of him in pairs to every town and place where he himself intended to go. He said to them, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest. Go on your way. See, I am sending you out like lambs into the midst of wolves. Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and greet no one on the road. Whatever house you enter, first say, “Peace to this house!” And if anyone is there who shares in peace, your peace will rest on that person; but if not, it will return to you. Remain in the same house, eating and drinking whatever they provide, for the labourer deserves to be paid. Do not move about from house to house. Whenever you enter a town and its people welcome you, eat what is set before you; cure the sick who are there, and say to them, “The kingdom of God has come near to you.” But whenever you enter a town and they do not welcome you, go out into its streets and say, “Even the dust of your town that clings to our feet, we wipe off in protest against you. Yet know this: the kingdom of God has come near.” I tell you, on that day it will be more tolerable for Sodom than for that town.

Jesus sends his disciples out, but he does not send them alone. As this prayer comes to an end, speak with Jesus as you would with a cherished friend. Share with him your desires and your hesitations, your hopes and your limitations. Is there a place, a situation, or a person to whom you feel drawn today? Ask him to guide your steps and to show you where he would like you to bring his peace.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be

World without end

Amen

Molly Parden and Jonathan Odgen sing, ‘The Promise’. Hear these lyrics about God’ creation and join in with the sense of awe for God’s love for our universe.

This gift you gave

From the beginning

Warm light, dry land

Blue water brimming

And more, from the earth

There came a growing

From seed to bloom

All the while you were sowing

It was love, love

Given in the water

And peace, God's peace

Written in the letters

Of the earth, God’s earth

Given with the promise

Can we keep it?

Can we keep it?

And stars in the night

To gaze on them kindly

Great light, cool moon

All aligned in the sky, see

From watеr came light

And so from the land

To feed and not to fight

To stand hand and hand

It was love, lovе

Given in the starlight

And peace, God's peace

Given in the sunshine

On the earth, God's earth

Given with the promise

Can we keep it?

Can we keep it?

Out from the silence

I hear a voice, I follow it onwards

You whispered to me

I am reminded

Of every gift you gave

So Spirit, lead me unto the waters

Unto the earth you made

Teach me the secret to ever care for

To ever look after it

It was love, love

Given in the water

And peace, God’s peace

Written in the letters

Of the earth, God's earth

Given with the promise

Can we keep it?

Can we keep it?

Can we keep it?

Today’s reading is from the Book of Job.

Job 9:1-12, 14-16

Then Job answered:

‘Indeed I know that this is so;

but how can a mortal be just before God?

If one wished to contend with him,

one could not answer him once in a thousand.

He is wise in heart, and mighty in strength

—who has resisted him, and succeeded?—

he who removes mountains, and they do not know it,

when he overturns them in his anger;

who shakes the earth out of its place,

and its pillars tremble;

who commands the sun, and it does not rise;

who seals up the stars;

who alone stretched out the heavens

and trampled the waves of the Sea;

who made the Bear and Orion,

the Pleiades and the chambers of the south;

who does great things beyond understanding,

and marvellous things without number.

Look, he passes by me, and I do not see him;

he moves on, but I do not perceive him.

He snatches away; who can stop him?

Who will say to him, “What are you doing?”

How then can I answer him,

choosing my words with him?

Though I am innocent, I cannot answer him;

I must appeal for mercy to my accuser.

If I summoned him and he answered me,

I do not believe that he would listen to my voice.

Job contemplates the greatness of God. He speaks of mountains being moved, stars being created, and wonders beyond human understanding. As you listen to these images, where do you encounter a sense of wonder in your own life? When have you found yourself aware of something greater than yourself, something that invited you to pause and take notice?

For Job, God's greatness is both beautiful and overwhelming. He wonders how he could ever find the right words before such a powerful God. Yet he does not turn away. How do you approach God today? What do you bring into this time of prayer? Is there something you long to say, but struggle to put into words?

Job says, "He passes by me, and I do not see him." As you hear the scripture again, stay with those words. Have there been times when God's presence felt hidden or difficult to recognise? Or perhaps moments that, looking back now, reveal signs of God's quiet companionship, even when you could not see it at the time.

Job 9:1-12, 14-16

Then Job answered:

‘Indeed I know that this is so;

but how can a mortal be just before God?

If one wished to contend with him,

one could not answer him once in a thousand.

He is wise in heart, and mighty in strength

—who has resisted him, and succeeded?—

he who removes mountains, and they do not know it,

when he overturns them in his anger;

who shakes the earth out of its place,

and its pillars tremble;

who commands the sun, and it does not rise;

who seals up the stars;

who alone stretched out the heavens

and trampled the waves of the Sea;

who made the Bear and Orion,

the Pleiades and the chambers of the south;

who does great things beyond understanding,

and marvellous things without number.

Look, he passes by me, and I do not see him;

he moves on, but I do not perceive him.

He snatches away; who can stop him?

Who will say to him, “What are you doing?”

How then can I answer him,

choosing my words with him?

Though I am innocent, I cannot answer him;

I must appeal for mercy to my accuser.

If I summoned him and he answered me,

I do not believe that he would listen to my voice.

Job does not hide his questions from God. He speaks honestly, bringing both his wonder and his uncertainty. As this prayer draws to a close, speak with God from where you are today. What would you like to say to him? What hope, question, gratitude, or longing would you like to place before him in your own words? Rest for a moment in his presence, trusting that he hears you.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be

World without end

Amen

The Corydon Singers, conducted by Matthew Best, sing In Paradisum from Fauré’s Requiem. ‘May the angels lead you to paradise, and at your coming may the martyrs receive you and bring you to the holy city of Jerusalem.’ Begin with stillness now, letting your mind dwell on things above.

Today’s reading is from the Book of Revelation.

Revelation 12:7-12

And war broke out in heaven; Michael and his angels fought against the dragon. The dragon and his angels fought back, but they were defeated, and there was no longer any place for them in heaven. The great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the Devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him.

Then I heard a loud voice in heaven, proclaiming,

‘Now have come the salvation and the power

and the kingdom of our God

and the authority of his Messiah,

for the accuser of our comrades has been thrown down,

who accuses them day and night before our God.

But they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb

and by the word of their testimony,

for they did not cling to life even in the face of death.

Rejoice then, you heavens

and those who dwell in them!

But woe to the earth and the sea,

for the devil has come down to you

with great wrath,

because he knows that his time is short!’

The Book of Revelation gives us a vivid picture of spiritual warfare. Yet this reading is not meant to make us afraid. Instead, it reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles, and that God is already at work within them. What is the spiritual challenge that occupies your heart at the moment? As you become aware of its weight, can you also remember that God is with you, fighting for you as well as alongside you?

The heavenly voice proclaims God's victory. Even when the outcome is hidden from us, we are invited to trust that God remains faithful. Can you remember a time when you faced a struggle and, perhaps only in hindsight, recognised God's help? Who were the people, the graces, or the unexpected moments through which God carried you forward?

The battles we face can leave their marks. But those marks can also remind us of God's love, protection and strength in times of weakness. As you listen to the reading again, notice the voice that announces the triumph of Christ. Which word or phrase catches your attention? Can you recognise small signs of that victory in your own life, signs that God continues to work in you today?

Revelation 12:7-12

And war broke out in heaven; Michael and his angels fought against the dragon. The dragon and his angels fought back, but they were defeated, and there was no longer any place for them in heaven. The great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the Devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him.

Then I heard a loud voice in heaven, proclaiming,

‘Now have come the salvation and the power

and the kingdom of our God

and the authority of his Messiah,

for the accuser of our comrades has been thrown down,

who accuses them day and night before our God.

But they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb

and by the word of their testimony,

for they did not cling to life even in the face of death.

Rejoice then, you heavens

and those who dwell in them!

But woe to the earth and the sea,

for the devil has come down to you

with great wrath,

because he knows that his time is short!’

Following Jesus means trusting him through both consolation and struggle. As this time of prayer comes to an end, speak with Jesus, the victorious Messiah. What would you like to thank him for today? And what grace do you ask of him as he continues to lead you towards the fullness of life with him?

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be

World without end

Amen