LIGHT UP MY LIFE                                                       Romans 13:11

“And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.” Romans 13:11

A new week at the start of a new year. A time to look forward and not back. A time for a change of mindset perhaps. Our challenge as Christians is always to remain vigilant and ensure that we are focused upon God’s will in and through our lives.

Here in St. Cuthbert’s Oratory, my home and a house of prayer, It’s our habit to pause briefly at the start of the day and light a candle and say a simple prayer. It reminds us of our dependence upon God in all circumstances.

Leaving the Christmas holidays behind, I feel in need of a fresh impetus to remind me of my commitment to live everyday with Jesus. I am all too ready to get on with life and lose sight of God. Simply to accept things for how they are rather than ask God how I am to respond in the times in which I live. This prayer provokes me to remember who I am and who I serve. I trust it will be of great encouragement and value to you as you step into a new year.

PRAY: May this candle be a light for you, Lord, to enlighten me in my difficulties and decisions.

May it be a fire for you, Lord, to burn out of me all pride, selfishness and impunity.

May it be a fame of fire for you, Lord, to bring warmth into my heart towards my neighbours and all those who meet me.

PRAYER LINE: ‘Lord, I choose to set aside the deeds of darkness and in each new day clothe myself with the Lord Jesus Christ.’

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Can you find a few moments at the start of the day to say that prayer? (EDWJ)