Liturgies of Labor: A Liturgy for Beginning the Workday

Lord, as this day begins,

I pause—

You are with me.

Let me be present.

I don’t know what this day will hold.

Some things may go easily,

others may feel heavy or frustrating,

and some moments may simply blur into the ordinary tasks

that make up a life.

In all of it, steady me.

Shape my hands for good work.

Shape my heart for patience.

Shape my words for gentleness.

Keep me from rushing past

what deserves attention.

Let the work before me

be an offering rather than a burden.

Lord, guide my work.

Lord, guide my heart.

Shape my hands for good.

Shape my heart for love.

Fill me with Your mercy.

Help me extend it.

Here I am, Lord.

Use me today.

Let this ordinary day

be lived with quiet awareness

that I do not walk into it alone.

Amen.