A Prayer of Philaret, Metropolitan of Moscow

I am currently in Florida at a gathering of Transition Ministers from the eastern third of this country - forty dioceses represented. The best way to describe our work is that it is something like the NFL draft: parishes that are looking for new clergy are presented, and names of clergy looking for positions are presented. We try to listen and make some matches to explore This is my second such gathering and I'm impressed at how grounded our work is in prayer. In spite of the fact that we deal with imperfect human beings (on both sides of said "matches") the work is seen for what it is: holy work, of listening for God's call.

This morning our devotions included this prayer, from Philaret, Metropolitan of Moscow (1821-1867). It was a prayer previously unfamiliar to me, but that I will continue to use.

O Lord, grant me to greet the coming day in peace.

Help me in all things to rely upon Your holy will. 

In every hour of the day reveal Your will to me. 

Bless my dealings with all who surround me. 

Teach me to treat all that comes to me throughout the day with peace of soul, 

and with the firm conviction that Your will governs all. 

In all my deeds and words guide my thoughts and feelings. 

In unforeseen events let me not forget that all are sent by You. 

Teach me to act firmly and wisely, without embittering or embarrassing others. 

Give me strength to bear the fatigue of this coming day with all that it will bring. 

Direct my will, teach me to pray, pray You Yourself in me. 

Amen.