I stumbled upon the following prayer today. It is from the Gelasian Sacramentary, which is the second oldest liturgical book known in the Western church, dating back to the 8th century. I thought it too good not to share given the struggles and strivings which many are enduring these days, especially in our local parish. As I read it, my mind went to this great passage in Hebrews 4:

Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

-- Hebrews 4.14-16 (NKJV)

Take this prayer, mindful of God's great mercy to us in Christ, and make these ancient, hallowed words your own.

Almighty, everlasting God, comfort of the sorrowful and strength of the weary: may the prayers of all that call upon thee in any trouble come into thy presence, that they may rejoice that in their necessity thy mercy hath been with them, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

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