People search for a prayer for light for different reasons. Some are in a dark season and need hope. Some can’t see which way to go. Some want to be a light to others. There is a prayer here for each.
Historical Context
At the Easter Vigil, the church begins in total darkness. A single candle is lit from a new fire and carried in while the deacon sings “The Light of Christ,” and the flame is passed from candle to candle until the whole church glows. It is the clearest picture the Church has of what a prayer for light asks.
A Prayer for Light in Darkness
Lord, you are my light and my salvation.
It is dark right now, and I can’t see much.
Be light enough for the next step.
Push back the fear, the confusion and the sadness,
and let me see your face again.
Amen.
A Prayer for Guidance
Lord, your word is a lamp to my feet.
I don’t need to see the whole road; I need to see the next step.
Shine on this decision, show me which way is yours,
and give me courage to take it.
Amen.
To Be a Light to Others
Jesus, you said we are the light of the world.
Let me shine today, not so people notice me, but so they notice you.
Let my kindness light up someone’s dark day.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- In depression, grief or a long dark season.
- Before a major decision.
- When lighting a candle in church or at home.
- During Advent, as the days grow darker, and at the Easter Vigil.
- On 13 December, the feast of St Lucy.
Scripture Connection
“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” — Psalm 119:105
A lamp in the ancient world lit only a few feet ahead. The psalmist isn’t promising a floodlit view of the future, only enough light for the next step. That is usually what a prayer for light receives, and usually enough.
Related prayers
For the saint whose name means light, see the Saint Lucy Prayer. In darkness, the Prayer for Depression, and for hope, the Prayer for a Better Tomorrow.