A Prayer for Mary

O Lord Most High,
We come before Thy throne with hearts bowed low, lifting up Thy servant Mary, whose prayer rises as incense before Thee. Hear her cry, O God of mercy, and incline Thine ear unto her (Psalm 86:1).

Let her faith be as Hannah’s, who poured out her soul before Thee (1 Samuel 1:15), and as Anna the prophetess, steadfast in prayer and worship night and day (Luke 2:37). Grant Mary the peace that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:7), and gird her with strength as Thou didst with Deborah, judge of Israel, who rose with courage by Thy command (Judges 4:4–9).

May her joy be full like Elisabeth, who cried, “Blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord” (Luke 1:45). Wrap Mary in the garments of praise, and crown her spirit with the wisdom of Mary of Bethany, who chose that good part, which shall not be taken away from her (Luke 10:42).

Guide her footsteps, O Lord, as Thou didst Ruth, whose loyalty brought forth blessing and favor (Ruth 1:16–17). Let her soul magnify the Lord as the virgin Mary, whose heart bore the weight of prophecy and yet rejoiced in God her Saviour (Luke 1:46–47).

Father, Thou knowest all her needs before she speaketh them, for it is written, “Before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear” (Isaiah 65:24). May Mary rest in Thy promises and rise in Thy purpose.

In the name of Jesus Christ, our Redeemer and King,
Amen.