Today is the feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. This morning's prayer is an elaboration of a beautiful moment in the rites of initiation when those preparing to be baptized receive the sign of the Cross all over their bodies. As you pray these words this morning, make the sign of the cross (+) on the different parts of your own body. Actually doing this will make a significant difference in your prayer!
Receive the sign of the Cross
+
on your forehead…
It is Jesus himself who strengthens you
with this sign of
his love.
Learn to know him more deeply
and to follow him
more faithfully.
- Receive the sign of the Cross
+ on your eyes…
Day by day,
may you see the
glory of God all around you.
May you see the face of Jesus
in everyone you
know and meet.
- Receive the sign of the Cross
+ on your ears…
Listen for the Lord's voice
in the whisper of
the Holy Spirit,
in the scriptures,
in your prayer,
and in the words
those who speak to you…
- Receive the sign of the Cross
+ on your lips…
May you respond to God’s grace
in the words you
pray
and speak the name of Jesus
with love and reverence.
May all your speech be true and charitable.
Let no harsh or unkind words pass your lips.
- Receive the sign of the Cross
+ on your shoulders…
May you take up the cross
that is yours in
this life
and remember
that Jesus who carried his own cross,
will always help you carry yours.
- Receive the sign of the Cross
+ on your over your
heart…
When you rise each morning
and before you go
to bed each night,
invite the Lord
to dwell
ever more
deeply within you.
Welcome Jesus into your heart of hearts
to make his home in
your soul.
- Receive the sign of the Cross
+ on your hands…
May Christ be known in all you do.
May you never lift your hand
to harm or
threaten anyone.
May your hands be always ready
to lift up,
support and carry your neighbor.
- Receive the sign of the Cross
+ on your feet…
Walk in the footsteps of
Jesus today.
May your steps always lead
you closer to Christ.
May you never stray from the
path
of Jesus,
his Word, his truth and his grace.
We make our prayer as we always do:
in the name of the Father
and of the Son
and of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.
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