Prayers for February
(linked to the 4th Section of the Post-Lourdes Study Topic)
Meditation: Matthew 6:5-13.
“And when you pray, do not imitate the hypocrites: they love to say their prayers standing up in the synagogues and at the street corners for people to see them. In truth I tell you, they have their reward. But when you pray, go to your private room, shut yourself in, and so pray to your Father who is in that secret place, and your Father who sees all that is done in secret will reward you.
In your prayers do not babble like the gentiles do, for they think that by using many words they will make themselves heard. Do not be like them; your Father knows what you need before you ask him. So pray like this:
Our Father in heaven,
May your name be held holy,
Your kingdom come,
Your will be done,
On earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts,
As we have forgiven those
Who are in debt to us.
And do not put us to the test,
But save us from the Evil One.”
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 24
Lord, make me know your ways.
Lord, teach me your paths.
Make me walk in your truth, and teach me:
For you are God my saviour. (R)
2. Remember your mercy, Lord,
And the love you have shown of old.
In your love remember me,
Because of your goodness, O Lord. (R)
He shows the path to those who stray,
He guides the humble in the right path;
He teaches his way to the poor. (R)
Concluding Prayer:
All-powerful and ever-living God, direct your love that is within us, that our efforts and endeavours in the name of your Son bring us closer to you, and enrich our lives, our marriage, and those around us. Amen.
A Commentary by Father John McLean on the text for meditation can be found on the Teams of Our Lady Website – http://www.teamsofourlady.org.uk