The Office of the Chaplain United States House of Representatives

Opening Prayer

04/06/2026
Chaplain Margaret Grun Kibben

How grateful we are, O lord, our Creator, that you have given us life. As the trees burst forth from their winter slumber, awaken us to the renewal that is ours when we receive from your hand the gifts of this season.

As the deer longs for water, so our souls seek refreshment from their deepest thirst. Quench our desires with the assurance that from you alone flows all the blessing we require for this day.

As deep calls to deep, so we call to you, who by day bestow your steadfast love and by night offer us the solace of your tender care.

Our help and our God, we offer ourselves and our prayers to you. Amen.

Psalm 42:1–2,7

Thought of the Week

Temptation ... cannot be sin; and the truth is, it is no more a sin to hear these whispers and suggestions of Satan in our souls, than it is for us to hear the swearing or wicked talk of bad men as we pass along the street. The sin only comes in either case by our stopping and joining in with them. 

—Hannah Whitall Smith

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