Hi,
The laity are not required to pray the Liturgy of the Hours, though they are encouraged to do so. So a substitute isn’t required. However, we do owe God thanks for all that He has given us. When we realize how much He loves us, it would be appropriate to want to respond to such love in some way. Just reflecting on a crucifix ought to draw some response from us, don’t you think?
Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.