You show me the path of life. In your presence there is fullness of joy;

“The Glory of These Forty Days,” Community of Christ Sings 451

The glory of these forty days we celebrate with songs of praise;
For Christ, by whom all things were made, himself has fasted and has prayed.

Alone and fasting, Moses saw the loving God who gave the law;
And to Elijah, fasting, came the steeds and chariots of flame.

So Daniel trained his mystic sight, delivered from the lion’s might;
And John, the Bridegroom’s friend, became the herald of Messiah’s name.

Then grant we like them be true, consumed in fast and prayer with you;
Our spirits strengthened with your grace, and give us joy to see your face.

Words: Pope Gregory 1, 540–604, Eng. tr. Maurice F. Bell, 1862–1947, alt.

Prayer Phrase

“Happy are those who observe justice” (Psalm 106:3).

Healing and Reconciliation

Gather a small mound of stones. Meditate on the stones as symbols of differences and destructive acts that continue to separate and wound the human family. Name and anoint each “stone wound” with a drop of water or scented oil. Offer them to God in a prayer for healing and reconciliation.

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.