Eternal Father,
whose Son Jesus Christ ascended to the throne of heaven
that he might rule over all things as Lord and King:
keep the Church in the unity of the Spirit
and in the bond of peace,
and bring the whole created order to worship at his feet;
who is alive and reigns with you,
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever.
Amen.

Out of my distress I called on the Lord;
    the Lord answered me and set me free.
 With the Lord on my side I do not fear.
    What can man do to me?
 The Lord is on my side to help me;
    I shall look in triumph on those who hate me.
It is better to take refuge in the Lord
    than to put confidence in man.
 It is better to take refuge in the Lord
    than to put confidence in princes.

–Psalm 118:5-9