Helmet of hope

A small snail carries a helmet-shaped shell on its back, tiny sprigs of hopeful green sprouting from its rim, moving unhurried across a leaf toward morning light.

God, you are the eternal protection of our souls, and the one who saves them. Please arm us with the helmet of hope and the shield of your unbeatable protection, so that, helped by you in our hard times and needs, we may be filled with joy and gladness alongside everyone who loves you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and the helmet of our hope of salvation.

1 Thessalonians 5:8 (BSB)

Adapted from the Sarum Breviary, via Prayers Ancient and Modern (1897), in plain words. The verse is from the Berean Standard Bible (public domain). Drawing: Mutter.