Page:Spiritual Reflections for Every Day in the Year - Vol 1.pdf/97



OR ever blessed, O Lord Jesus Christ, be thy holy name, for thy mercy in again bringing us safely to behold the dawn of another day. May our prayers at this time rise to Thee in thankfulness, and be as the sweet incense of the moming sacrifice. O teach us so to walk in thy precepts this day, that in our intercourse with the world we may feel a true delight in the exercise of charity, as well as in our various avocations, to do justice, to love mercy, and walk humbly with Thee. In those states of temptation, through which we may be called to pass, enable us to see thy guiding hand; to know that thy corrections are given to dispel our gloom and to increase our wisdom; while thy constant support is strength to weakness, and as the bread of heaven to nourish us in the road of life. In temptation's gloomy night, when,—through our weakness, doubts may weaken our confidence in Thee, O give us to feel, that, though heaviness may endure for a night, yet joy cometh in the morning. It is in the morning of spiritual light and consolation, that we can praise Thee, O Lord, for thy goodness and for thy wonderful works to the children of men. May we, in every dispensation of thy providence, perceive that Thou hast spread a table for us in the wilderness; and that thy rod and thy staff unite to comfort us in our journey of life.

Merciful and ever-loving Father, may our faith be strengthened in Thee; may our love be increased, and may our walk and conversation through this day be precious in thy sight. Enable us, by strength imparted