Week of 3 Epiphany, Monday

Lord, open our lips.

The writer of the letter to the Hebrews suggests today that Christ has fulfilled the promise made to the people of Israel, and that his entering into heaven as a high priest means that the Temple worship of Israel -- a mere copy of the heavenly offering -- is no longer necessary.

The distant relationship between God and the people of Israel, mediated by the priests of the Temple, is replaced by a personal relationship mediated by Christ himself.

Quoting Jeremiah 31:33-34, he writes,

"I will put my laws in their minds,
     and write them on their hearts,
and I will be their God,
     and they shall be my people." (Heb. 8:10)

The Daily Office is one way for us to claim the promise of a personal relationship with God and ensure that God's laws are in our minds and "written in our hearts."

The steady repetition of the Psalms and canticles, the ongoing round of Scripture reading, the weekly rhythm of Collects and prayers, work in us the familiarity with God's word that is the first part of his promise.

Lord, open our lips.
And our mouth shall proclaim your praise.