A Concord Pastor Comments: NIGHT PRAYER: Sunday 2/19

On Sundays, Night Prayer will focus on an element from the day's celebration of Mass. For most folks, this will be the last day to hear and sing the word "Alleluia" before it's retired for the Lenten season which begins this week on Ash Wednesday. "Alleluia," which translates "Praise the Lord!" is the song of Easter joy. We won't hear it again until the Easter Vigil on April 8.

For the joy of faith in you,
   I praise you, Lord!

For the joy your gracious Spirit brings,
   I praise you, Lord!

For the joy of others' love,
   I praise you, Lord!

For the joy of trusting you,
   I praise you, Lord!

For the joy of resting in your arms,
   I praise you, Lord!

For the joy of good and faithful friends,
   I praise you, Lord!

For the joy of simple things and small surprises,
   I praise you, Lord!

For the joy of days well spent,
   I praise you, Lord!

For the joy of just a good night's sleep,
   I praise you, Lord!

For the joy your grace affords me,
   I praise you, Lord!

For the joy of word and promise kept,
   I praise you, Lord!

For the joy your mercy offers,
   I praise you, Lord!

For the joy of new beginnings,
   I praise you, Lord!

For the joy of living one day at a time,
   I praise you, Lord!

For the joy of giving thanks,
   I praise you, Lord!

What might you add to this litany?

For the joy of............................
I praise you, Lord!

For joy that calms my fears,
for joy that eases worries,
for joy that heals old wounds,
for joy that mends my heart,
for joy that feeds my faith,
for joy that brings me peace,
for the joy that trusts all shall be well,
I praise and thank you, Lord!

Protect me, Lord, while I'm awake

and watch over me while I sleep

that awake, I might keep watch with you

and asleep, rest in your peace...

Amen.

I had to search for an Alleluia suitable for Night Prayer,

but then came upon Randall Thompson's Alleluia

which seems just right...