Memorize Monday: Prayer of Saint Ephrem the Syrian

In addition to memorizing scripture it is also fruitful to memorize prayers, especially ancient prayers that have played a significant role in the church.  The prayer of St. Ephrem is such a prayer.  Likely composed in St. Ephrem’s name around 373, the prayer of St. Ephrem is a penitential prayer and is used as a the essential prayer of Lent by the Eastern Orthodox Church.  It is a beautiful prayer that in a few sentences helps name the sins that so many of us wrestle with day in and day out.  Memorize this prayer and call it to mind to re-collect yourself in the way of Christ.

Prayer of Saint Ephrem

O Lord and Master of my life, give me not the spirit of sloth, despair, lust for power and idle talk.

But grant unto me, Thy servant, a spirit of chastity (integrity), humility, patience and love.

Yea, O Lord and King, grant me to see mine own faults and not to judge my brother. For blessed art Thou unto the ages of ages. Amen.