Lord, you have taught us in your word
That there is a time to speak
And a time to keep silence.
As we thank you for the power of speech,
We pray also for the grace of silence.
Make us as ready to listen as we are to talk:
Ready to listen to your voice
In the quietness of our hearts,
And ready to listen to other people
Who need a sympathetic ear.
Show us when to open our mouths
And when to hold our peace,
That we may glorify you
Both in speech and in silence;
Through Jesus Christ our Lord AMEN.