Daily Reading for November 19 • Elizabeth, Princess of Hungary, 1231

Lord Jesus, as God’s Spirit came down and rested upon you,
may the same Spirit rest upon us,
bestowing his sevenfold gifts.

First, grant us the gift of understanding,
by which your precepts may enlighten our minds.

Second, grant us counsel,
by which we may follow in your footsteps
on the path of righteousness.

Third, grant us courage,
by which we may ward off the Enemy’s attacks.

Fourth, grant us knowledge,
by which we can distinguish good from evil.

Fifth, grant us piety,
by which we may acquire compassionate hearts.

Sixth, grant us fear,
by which we may draw back from evil
and submit to what is good.

Seventh, grant us wisdom,
that we may taste fully
the life-giving sweetness of your love.

A prayer of Bonaventura (1217-74), General of the Franciscans, quoted in 2000 Years of Prayer, compiled by Michael Counsell. Copyright © 1999. Used by permission of Morehouse Publishing, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. www.morehousepublishing.com