Prayer of St. Augustine

(Stained glass window, taken by me)

Breathe in me, 

Holy Spirit,

that my thoughts may be 

holy.

Act in me, 

Holy Spirit,

that my work may be 

holy.

Draw my heart, 

Holy Spirit,

that I love what is 

holy.

Strengthen me, 

Holy Spirit,

to defend what is 

holy.

Guard me

Guard me

Guard me now, 

Holy Spirit,

that I always may be 

holy.

Amen. Amen. Amen.

(Prayer of St. Augustine, Trinity Vineyards, Atlanta, GA)

This beautiful, simple song, based on the words written 1600 years ago, speaks to my heart every time we sing it at church. I love how it is structured, with repetition and emphasis on holiness. It is the cry of my heart for the Holy Spirit to breathe in me, to act in me, to guard me, to strengthen me, and to draw my heart so that I love what is holy. No matter how badly I want to be holy and do holy work as a mother, I am doomed to failure if I attempt it under my own merits. Guard me against this always, Holy Spirit!

Does anyone have any other suggestions (verses, song lyrics, quotes) for reminders of God's constant presence with us, guiding us and giving us peace? These are the prayers I'm praying most often these days. Please comment if you do!

Still a Burning Light

(Large Magellenic Cloud, Hubble Space Telescope)

I look at You
Your eyes are clear and bright
I see Your face
it's an amazing sight
Your glory, Lord
is still a burning light
a light that all our faithless hands
could never dim

-The Waiting, "Never Dim"