Lord, Author of Life,
I come before you with thanks and praise.
You made all things out of nothing,
And created us without our asking or earning it.
You guide and protect all you have created
And your love knows no measure.
You brought order out of the ancient chaos
And calmed the stormy seas.
Day by day, you calm the storms of our lives
And bring to our hearts the peace
That passes all understanding.
Lord, I praise you today
For my own being.
You love and welcome me,
Without reservation, without conditions,
And without end.
You do not make mistakes,
Nor do your actions come about by accident.
Rather, you have loved me from all eternity.
And have chosen me to live as your child.
Lord, renew within me
The joy and gratitude that life brings.
In life and death, I belong to you,
And today I entrust myself again to your care.
Bless my family, and give us your protection.
Bless my present and my future,
And give me the gift of your salvation.
Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Fr. Frank Pavone