The Sarum Prayer
God be in my head—and in my understanding
God be in my eyes—and in my looking
God be in my mouth—and in my speaking
God be in my heart—and in my thinking
God be at my end—and at my departing
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.
Psalm for the Week
The Lord is my shepherd,
I shall not want.
In grass meadows She makes me lie down,
by quiet waters guides me.
My life She brings back.
She leads me on pathways of justice
for Her name’s sake.
Though I walk in the vale of death’s shadow,
I fear no harm,
for You are with me.
Your rod and Your staff—
it is they that console me.
You set out a table before me
in the face of my foes.
You moisten my head with oil,
my cup overflows.
Let but goodness and kindness pursue me
all the days of my life.
And I shall dwell in the house of the Lord
for many long days.
Words of Jesus Portion
I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd. (John 10:16)
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.
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.
Gratitude Practice
For the many blessings of this day, we are thankful. Lord make us mindful. For each person we love, we are thankful. Lord make us mindful. For each person who loves us, we are thankful. Lord make us mindful.
Take a few moments to identify three things you are thankful for: big things, small delights, whatever comes to mind. Jot them down or call them to mind.
Closing Sarum Prayer
As a breath prayer. On the in breath: God be in my head. On the out breath: and in my understanding. If you like, pick one line to return to through the day.
God be in my head—and in my understanding
God be in my eyes—and in my looking
God be in my mouth—and in my speaking
God be in my heart—and in my thinking
God be at my end—and at my departing
Benediction
Go in peace: wash your hands, love your neighbor, we are not alone.