“Give ear to my words, O Lord; consider my groaning. Give attention to the sound of my cry, my King and my God, for to you do I pray. O Lord, in the morning you hear my voice; in the morning I prepare a sacrifice for you and watch.” (Psalm 5:1–3)

            Since the day is apt to run away like a jittery cat, as the morning wakes from slumber I appeal to you. You know my particular voice as clearly as a mother distinguishes her own child’s cry, and you are mindful of my specific needs before I even voice one complaint. You understand the silent rumblings in my heart; you bend your ear and pay careful attention, even though others might be blissfully unaware.

            I call you King and God, for you reign supreme over every corner of your kingdom. Before time had meaning and long after time has ceased to exist, you will still be absolutely in charge. I am your subject and you my perfect Sovereign with dominion to govern this day. Go ahead, Lord of all, rule over me.

            In the morning as the sun plants a fiery kiss on the earth’s circular cheek, as pelicans pack their pouches with minnows and moonbeams quickly disappear till nightfall, you hear my prayer. As a mother listens intently to her child, you listen for my voice. As a father bends to comfort and carry his weary daughter, you draw close to me.

            What offering do I bring to you this day? What should I lay at your feet? Perhaps my usual questions, my anxious wonderings, my selfish desires would be a good place to start. I place on your altar my repetitive pleas, my lists of what-ifs and are-you-sure and could-you-explain-that-one-to-me. I bow to your supreme wisdom and know all the while I am covered in divine mercy, endless and ongoing.

            Master of this day, walk with me throughout. Make me aware of your holy presence as I embark down the road you place my feet upon. Do not let me take a step apart from where you want me to walk. Help me to be fully aware of your presence, no matter the distance or the unforeseen terrain I must navigate before nightfall brings me to rest once more.

            “But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them ever sing for joy, and spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may exult in you. For you bless the righteous, O Lord; you cover him with favor as with a shield” (Psalm 5:11–12).

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