Posted March 23, 2014

Used with permission of  Creighton University Online Ministries

Invitatory:

“Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare your praise.”

Collect:

O God, author of every mercy and of all goodness, who in fasting, prayer and almsgiving have shown us a remedy for sin, look graciously on this confession of our lowliness, that we, who are bowed down by our conscience, may always be lifted up by your mercy. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

The Readings

Exodus 17: 3-7; Psalm 95: 1-9; Romans 5: 1-8; John 4: 5-42

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Daily Meditation:

Form a new heart within.

This Sunday brings us closer to the font of renewing our baptismal commitment. It is also the first of three Scrutinies for the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. We are deeply aware that there is a struggle going on in us. We turn to God, that we might not become discouraged. We rely on God’s compassion and love for us. We acknowledge who we are – sinners who experience the consequences of our selfishness – but we know we are loved and we desire to be filled with hope.

We go into this week renewed in our desire to continue our prayer, fasting and generosity toward others.

Intercessions:

Let us praise our loving Redeemer, who gained for us this season of grace, and pray to him, saying: Lord, create a new spirit in us.

Christ, our life, through baptism we were buried with you and rose to life with you, – may we walk today in newness of life.

Lord, you have brought blessings to all mankind, – bring us to share your concern for the good of all.

May we work together to build up the earthly city, – with our eyes fixed on the city that lasts for ever.

Healer of body and soul, cure the sickness of our spirit, – so that we may grow in holiness through your constant care.

Closing Prayer:

Loving Father, So many times I turn away from you and always you welcome me back. Your mercy and love gives me confidence Thank you for the invitation to share, fast and pray so that you can form a new heart within me. Your powerful compassion for my weaknesses leads me to ask for mercy and await with great hope the Easter joy you share with us.

Conclusion:

May the Lord bless us, protect us from all evil and bring us to everlasting life.

Amen.