Psalm 89:1–29 2 Samuel 7:4, 8–16 Romans 4:13–18 Luke 2:41–52
A dear friend, Education for Ministry classmate, and member of this parish shared this daily prayer with me a few years ago. Even though it is based upon Bishop John H. Vincent’s 1909 prayer, it remains relevant today—and especially during Lent.
I will this day try to live a simple, sincere and serene life,
repelling promptly every thought of discontent, anxiety, discouragement, impurity and self-seeking,
cultivating cheerfulness, magnanimity, charity, and the habit of holy silence,
exercising economy in expenditure, generosity in giving, carefulness in conversation, diligence in appointed service, fidelity to every trust, and a childlike faith in God.
In particular I will try to be faithful in those habits of prayer, work, study, physical exercise, eating, and sleep which I believe the Holy Spirit has shown me to be right.
And as I cannot in my own strength do this, nor even with a hope of success attempt it,
I look to thee, O Lord God my Father, in Jesus my Savior, and ask for the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.
If only all of our days could be lived out like the morning resolve. The Good News is that, if we fail—which we will—we can start afresh the next morning with the hope of redemption through Jesus Christ. Praise be!

–Sarah Tuke