Daily Prayers for September 14
John Chrysostom (c. 347 – 407)
As a young man, John Chrysostom tried to be a desert monk, but he was deterred by poor health. So he decided to give his whole life to God in the city. He eventually became archbishop of Constantinople, but always insisted on a life of simplicity. John is remembered for his eloquence in preaching, especially against abuses of authority by both ecclesiastical and political leaders. After his death he was given the Greek surname Chrysostomos, meaning “golden-mouthed,” because of his eloquence with words. In a time filled with so many words, John reminds us that words of truth have power to convict and transform.
O Lord, let my soul rise up to meet you
as the day rises to meet the sun.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit,
as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen.
Come, let us sing to the Lord : let us shout for joy to the Rock of our salvation.
Song “All Creatures of Our God and King”
O Word made flesh, speak through us : words that bring new life.
Psalm 71:19 – 23
Your righteous-ness, O God, reaches to the heavens : you have done great things; who is like you, O God?
You have showed me great troubles and adversities : but you will restore my life and bring me up again from the deep places of the earth.
You strengthen me more and more : you enfold and comfort me,
therefore I will praise you upon the lyre for your faithfulness, O my God : I will sing to you with the harp, O Holy One of Israel.
My lips will sing with joy when I play to you : and so will my soul, which you have redeemed.
O Word made flesh, speak through us : words that bring new life.
Hosea 4:11 – 19 Matthew 7:22 – 29
O Word made flesh, speak through us : words that bring new life.
John Chrysostom said, “Prayer is the light of the spirit, and the spirit, raised up to heaven by prayer, clings to God with the utmost tenderness. Like a child crying tearfully for its mother, it craves the milk that God provides. Prayer also stands before God as an honored ambassador. It gives joy to the spirit, peace to the heart. I speak of prayer, not words. It is the longing for God, love too deep for words, a gift not given by humans, but by God’s grace.”
Prayers for Others
Our Father
Lord -Jesus, you taught us to pray. Now help us pray for our daily bread while laboring with love for those who hunger. Show us how to hallow your name while striving for justice in our relationships and in society. May our whole lives become a prayer, ever to your glory. Amen.
May the peace of the Lord Christ go with you : wherever he may send you;
may he guide you through the wilderness : protect you through the storm;
may he bring you home rejoicing : at the wonders he has shown you;
may he bring you home rejoicing : once again into our doors.
