Let the words of my mouth and the thought of my heart find favor before you,
O LORD, my rock and my redeemer. Psalm 19:15
Before we hear the words of the Gospel at Mass, we cross ourselves on the forehead, lips and chest to recall that the Word of God should always be on our minds, on our lips and in our hearts. This simple act of faith is a powerful reminder about how I should act during the coming week. Whether I’m writing or driving or dealing with my kids, I want my thoughts and my words to always be pleasing to God, and I want the Word of God to infiltrate and affect my life.
It doesn’t always work out that way, of course. I sometimes forget that the Word of God resides just inside of me and can be called upon at anytime to help me through a situation with the kids or with an angry driver. Sometimes I remember that the Word of God is there but I choose to not use it or pay it any mind. But I continue to cross myself each week, praying that this week will be better than the last and that the Word of God will help me through the week in a way that will be a little more pleasing to God.
God, keep your Word in my mind, on my lips and ever in my heart.
Steve Givens
Originally published March 5, 2001
