In Evening's Quiet, I Seek Your Face
Preparing for the Third Sunday of Easter: Three Days before Sunday (Year B)
Scripture
Psalter: Psalm 4
Old Testament: Daniel 9:1-19
Epistle: 1 John 2:18-25
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Prayer
Receive these prayers, O God, and transform us through them, that we may have eyes to see and hearts to understand not only what you do on our behalf, but what you call us to do so that your realm will come to fruition in glory. Amen. (Revised Common Lectionary)
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Reflection
Answer me when I call, O God of my right!
You gave me room when I was in distress.
Be gracious to me, and hear my prayer.
How long, you people, shall my honor suffer shame?
How long will you love vain words and seek after lies? Selah
But know that the Lord has set apart the faithful for himself;
the Lord hears when I call to him.
When you are disturbed, do not sin;
ponder it on your beds, and be silent. Selah
Offer right sacrifices,
and put your trust in the Lord.
There are many who say, “O that we might see some good!
Let the light of your face shine on us, O Lord!”
You have put gladness in my heart
more than when their grain and wine abound.
I will both lie down and sleep in peace,
for you alone, O Lord, make me lie down in safety (Psalm 4).
In evening’s quiet, I seek Your face,
Whispers in the twilight, calling for grace.
You, the Righteous, hear my plea,
In distress, You enlarge me, set me free.
How long will others love what is vain,
Chasing shadows, breeding their own pain?
Know that the Lord sets apart the faithful,
Hears when I call, His response is graceful.
Tremble, and sin not, in silence be still,
Offer your heart, align with His will.
Many ask, “Who will show us good?”
Let Your light shine, understood.
You’ve put more joy in my heart,
Than when their grain and wine abound.
In peace, I lie down and depart,
For in You alone, safety is found.
PRAYER: Almighty and everlasting God, who in the Paschal mystery established the new covenant of reconciliation: Grant that all who have been reborn into the fellowship of Christ's Body may show forth in their lives what they profess by their faith; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. (Book of Common Prayer)
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Check out my web portal to all thigs “Faith Seeking Understanding” here.
I pray for quiet.
Allan - did you write the poem/reflection between Psalm 4 and the prayer? It is beautiful.