The Prayer for Love from the Eastern Orthodox tradition

Christ my God, set my heart on fire with love in You, that in its flame I may love You with all my heart, with all my mind, and with all my soul and with all my strength, and my neighbor as myself, so that by keeping Your commandments I may glorify You the Giver of every good and perfect gift.

Amen.

Breath Meditation Practice

Take some deep breaths: In through the nose, out through the mouth, three at least or more. As your mind wanders, return your focus to the breath.

Saturday Reading

Mark 12:28–31

One of the teachers of the law came and heard [Jesus] debating [with some other teachers]. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?”

“The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”

Serenity Prayer

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.

Prayer for Loved Ones

Take a minute (more if you like) to simply name your loved ones. Practice not over-thinking. Just naming. Focus on your feeling of love for each one.

Prayer by St. Theresa

May today there be peace within you.
May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be.
May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born in faith.
May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.
May you be content knowing you are a child of God. Let this presence settle into your bones and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of us.
Amen.

Closing: Breath Prayer

On the in breath: May I pass on the love. On the out breath: that’s been given to me. If you like, pick another line to return to through the day.

Benediction

Go in peace: wash your hands, love your neighbor, you are not alone.