Why Did God Choose?
I attended a Jim Brickman concert this past Monday night at the Hershey Theater and among the last few people to get settled into their seats was a couple that had seats right in front of us. They were a middle aged couple perhaps just a bit older that Tina and me. The theater was packed, and just as this couple was seated a man took the stage to give the usual announcements about turning off cell phones and those sorts of things. He also announced that following the concert all those who were members of the Jim Brickman VIP club should come down and take a seat in the front rows, and they would have a chance to meet him and the other musicians who would be performing that night. The gentleman of this couple excitedly took out his Jim Brickman VIP badge and showed it to his wife. I could tell from his body language that he was excited to be at this concert.
For those of you who don’t know who Jim Brickman is, he describes himself as America’s leading romantic pianist. While he is no doubt a very gifted piano player, he does not show off with his music. He just plays nice, soothing music, and on this evening he did some very creative arrangements of Christmas carols and other holiday music which were performed by him along with a small ensemble consisting of two singers, a violin player, and a percussionist. All of the audience members that sat around us seemed pleased to be there, and ready to listen, but not quite like this man. As Mr. Brickman took the stage this gentleman excitedly clapped not only with his hands, but his entire body, as he shook with excitement.
But it was here that the evening took a dramatic turn. Just as the first few notes were being played the last person sitting in the row in front of us finally arrived…and wouldn’t you know it his seat was in the middle of the row. So everybody, including the couple front of us had to stand up to let him in completely blocking our view of the stage. And just then the woman sitting right behind Tina yelled, in a voice for the entire theater to hear, “Sit down, I can’t see!” The man’s wife turned and in a stern but muffled voice told the lady to calm down. I started worrying about having to break up a fight, but after everyone was settled into their seats, it did get quiet again, as this man was not going to allow his evening to be ruined by a lady’s bad attitude. After each piece he would clap enthusiastically, and then eagerly lean forward in his seat for the next piece to start. Those of us around him couldn’t help but notice that he was appreciating this concert on a very different level than the rest of us. Everybody was certainly enjoying the evening, but this man was soaking up every note… every moment… as if it were the most important thing that he had ever been a part of.
It made me think about how we approach Christmas. I can certainly appreciate that over the course of time Christmas loses some of its magic. This is only natural as the central figure of the secular celebration of Christmas and his transportation system become more symbolic than real. But we should never, no matter what our age, lose the stirring of emotion that comes when we stop to fully comprehend and appreciate the gift that God gives to us in the birth of this little, vulnerable child, born to confused and homeless parents, in a poor and forgotten part of the world. Perhaps we need to be a bit more like this middle aged man who looked forward to the gift of this concert like a four year old child approaching the Christmas tree on Christmas morning viewing the assortment of neatly wrapped presents that were not there when she went to bed the night before.
While we often blame it on busyness, perhaps part of the reason that we leave the true inner experience of Christmas at arm’s length year after year is the difficulty that we have in understanding the choices God made to accomplish the task of placing his presence on earth in a human being.
After all, why would God choose to have Jesus be born into poverty, to an unmarried couple who was far from home, and seemingly ill prepared for this birth? Why not choose a married couple with some means to at least provide a home for this child.
Why would God choose a forgotten village in a forgotten corner of the world? Why not choose Rome or Alexandria, why Israel? And if Israel, why not Jerusalem? But God chose Bethlehem, not Jerusalem.
Why would God choose to be born in a stable full of barn animals, which amounted to being little more than a motel parking lot? And why would God choose a manger (which is a more romantic word for a cow’s feeding trough), for the first crib in which this Holy Baby would be cradled?
Such imperfection by our standards. Such an odd way of accomplishing what needed to be done.
But could it be that God chose such an imperfect scenario so that we could understand God’s wanting to find a place to be within the imperfections of our own lives? Could it be that God would choose to be born to a confused teenager, and her unsuspecting fiancée, just so that we would know that our confusion could also be a place where a Savior could be found? Could it be that God might choose this young couple, far removed from home and family and friends, so that we might understand God’s presence in the seeming loneliness and broken relationships of our own lives?
Could it be that God would choose the extreme poverty into which Jesus was born so that we might understand that wealth has nothing to do with spiritual fulfillment, as a matter of fact seeking wealth at all costs might even get in the way? So no matter what your economic reality right now, Christ can and will be present.
Could it be that through this unlikely birth God would reach out and choose even you to be a child of God? Could it be that God would reach out and chose even me?
Yes… the answer is yes! And as we continue with our celebreation of Christmas, as we attend services of worship, as we visit with friends and family, and as we take time to be quiet, I would invite you to allow your heart to be stirred, that you might allow the tear in your eye to roll freely down your cheek, that you might welcome the lump in your throat, that you might allow your voice to quiver as you sing an old familiar Christmas Carol, that you might once again allow Christ to be born into your life and receive him with enthusiasm and hope. Might we too lean forward in anticipation of where God might be taking us next in our life?
Might we, from the bottom of our hearts, join with Mary proclaiming these words to all around us: “The Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name.”
Why would God choose? God chooses because God so loved world, that he gave to us a Son, and his name is Jesus.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Prayers for the 4th Sunday in Advent
(Portions of this prayer contain excerpts from the Moravian Book of Worship Liturgy for Christmas, pages 59-63)
The Watchword for the Week:
God has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly. Luke 1:52
God so loved the world that he gave his only Son,
so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.
Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world,
but in order that the world might be saved through him.
Luke 1:46-55
46 And Mary said, "My soul magnifies the Lord,
47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
48 for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name.
50 His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation.
51 He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.
52 He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly;
53 he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty.
54 He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy,
55 according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants forever."
Invitation to Confession
God has done marvelous things for us, but often the conduct of our lives does not reflect the acceptance of those gifts. Let us acknowledge our sin and our need for a Savior.
Confession of Sin:
Saving God, we confess to you our sinfulness. We are consumed with greed and with self, instead of loving you as we ought. Too often we are indifferent to those for whom this season is not a time of joy. You call us to a simple life, but we engage in extravagance, which directs our hearts away from you and from those in need. Forgive us and renew us, gracious Savior.
God has reached into the darkness of our lives to give us hope for living a new life. Accept the gift of God’s grace today and be transformed.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end, AMEN.
Take time now to read today's Daily Texts. Pause and ponder words or phrases that happen to catch your spirit today. Then pray for your needs, and the needs of the world.
Lord, have mercy upon us.
Christ, have mercy upon us.
Lord, have mercy upon us.
Christ, hear us.
Holy Child of Mary, Savior of the World,
reveal yourself to us.
Help us and save us through the totality of your life:
By your holy incarnation,
By your human birth,
By your pure and blameless childhood,
By your obedience and diligence,
By your humility, meekness, and patience,
By your extreme poverty,
By your grief and sorrows,
By your prayers and tears,
By your having been despised and rejected,
By your cross and suffering,
By your death and burial,
By your triumphant resurrection and ascension.
God has brought down the powerful from their thrones,
and lifted up the lowly.
We marvel, Gracious God, at the mystery of your incarnation.
Why would you choose to be born into poverty, with a family far from home, and seemingly ill prepared for your arrival?
Why would you choose a forgotten village in a forgotten corner of the world?
Why would you choose to be born in a cave full of cattle, and take a manger for your crib?
Could it be that through this unlikely birth you would reach out and choose even us to be your children?
Could it be that you would reach out and choose even me?
The Mighty One has done great things for me,
and holy is his name. Thanks be to God! Amen.
The Watchword for the Week:
God has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly. Luke 1:52
God so loved the world that he gave his only Son,
so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.
Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world,
but in order that the world might be saved through him.
Luke 1:46-55
46 And Mary said, "My soul magnifies the Lord,
47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
48 for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name.
50 His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation.
51 He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.
52 He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly;
53 he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty.
54 He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy,
55 according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants forever."
Invitation to Confession
God has done marvelous things for us, but often the conduct of our lives does not reflect the acceptance of those gifts. Let us acknowledge our sin and our need for a Savior.
Confession of Sin:
Saving God, we confess to you our sinfulness. We are consumed with greed and with self, instead of loving you as we ought. Too often we are indifferent to those for whom this season is not a time of joy. You call us to a simple life, but we engage in extravagance, which directs our hearts away from you and from those in need. Forgive us and renew us, gracious Savior.
God has reached into the darkness of our lives to give us hope for living a new life. Accept the gift of God’s grace today and be transformed.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end, AMEN.
Take time now to read today's Daily Texts. Pause and ponder words or phrases that happen to catch your spirit today. Then pray for your needs, and the needs of the world.
Lord, have mercy upon us.
Christ, have mercy upon us.
Lord, have mercy upon us.
Christ, hear us.
Holy Child of Mary, Savior of the World,
reveal yourself to us.
Help us and save us through the totality of your life:
By your holy incarnation,
By your human birth,
By your pure and blameless childhood,
By your obedience and diligence,
By your humility, meekness, and patience,
By your extreme poverty,
By your grief and sorrows,
By your prayers and tears,
By your having been despised and rejected,
By your cross and suffering,
By your death and burial,
By your triumphant resurrection and ascension.
God has brought down the powerful from their thrones,
and lifted up the lowly.
We marvel, Gracious God, at the mystery of your incarnation.
Why would you choose to be born into poverty, with a family far from home, and seemingly ill prepared for your arrival?
Why would you choose a forgotten village in a forgotten corner of the world?
Why would you choose to be born in a cave full of cattle, and take a manger for your crib?
Could it be that through this unlikely birth you would reach out and choose even us to be your children?
Could it be that you would reach out and choose even me?
The Mighty One has done great things for me,
and holy is his name. Thanks be to God! Amen.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Prayers for the 3rd Week in Advent
The Watchword for the Week:
Bear fruits worthy of repentance. Luke 3:8
Stir up our hearts, O Lord,
to prepare the paths for your Only-begotten Son:
that we may worthily serve you
with hearts purified by His coming.
Isaiah 12:2-6
Surely God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid,
for the Lord God is my strength and my might; he has become my salvation.
With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.
And you will say on that day: Give thanks to the Lord,
call on his name; make known his deeds among
the nations; proclaim that his name is exalted.
Sing praises to the Lord, for he has done gloriously; let this be known in all the earth.
Shout aloud and sing for joy O royal Zion,
For great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel.
Invitation to Confession
Preparing for the coming Savior means that we need to acknowledge our need for one. Let us prepare the way for the arrival of Jesus Christ by confessing our sins:
Forgive us loving God for the winding path upon which you have to travel to find us. As we bend to the selfish influences of our culture we lose sight of your intended will for us. Too often we live by fear rather than by faith because we underestimate your power to heal the parts of us that are broken, and to correct the parts of us that have drifted from your influence. We confess that we have separated ourselves from you and our spirit, soul, and body have been used to meet our own needs rather than seeking the purity of your will. Bring us back to you so that we might respond to your grace by sharing it with others. Give us the courage to give you unhindered access to all of who we are and in so doing find ourselves blameless at your coming.
Comfort, comfort my people says your God. Speak tenderly to them and proclaim that they have suffered long enough, that their penalty is paid, and their sins are forgiven.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. AMEN.
Take time now to read the Daily Text for today. As you do so pause at words or phrases that speak most especially to your preparation for the Christmas season that is now fast approaching.
Then take time to pray for your needs, the needs of your family and friends, and the needs of the world. When you have finnished that, continue with the prayer as follows:
Lord, have mercy upon us.
Christ, have mercy upon us.
Lord, have mercy upon us.
Christ, hear us.
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.
Christ, the Light of the world, empower us to shine as lights in this dark world of sin.
As we continue in this Advent season enable us to more faithfully seek your presence in our daily lives.
Come Lord Jesus, come.
Come and mold us, change us, use us.
We praise you, for you are good,
And your mercy endures forever. Amen.
Bear fruits worthy of repentance. Luke 3:8
Stir up our hearts, O Lord,
to prepare the paths for your Only-begotten Son:
that we may worthily serve you
with hearts purified by His coming.
Isaiah 12:2-6
Surely God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid,
for the Lord God is my strength and my might; he has become my salvation.
With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.
And you will say on that day: Give thanks to the Lord,
call on his name; make known his deeds among
the nations; proclaim that his name is exalted.
Sing praises to the Lord, for he has done gloriously; let this be known in all the earth.
Shout aloud and sing for joy O royal Zion,
For great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel.
Invitation to Confession
Preparing for the coming Savior means that we need to acknowledge our need for one. Let us prepare the way for the arrival of Jesus Christ by confessing our sins:
Forgive us loving God for the winding path upon which you have to travel to find us. As we bend to the selfish influences of our culture we lose sight of your intended will for us. Too often we live by fear rather than by faith because we underestimate your power to heal the parts of us that are broken, and to correct the parts of us that have drifted from your influence. We confess that we have separated ourselves from you and our spirit, soul, and body have been used to meet our own needs rather than seeking the purity of your will. Bring us back to you so that we might respond to your grace by sharing it with others. Give us the courage to give you unhindered access to all of who we are and in so doing find ourselves blameless at your coming.
Comfort, comfort my people says your God. Speak tenderly to them and proclaim that they have suffered long enough, that their penalty is paid, and their sins are forgiven.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. AMEN.
Take time now to read the Daily Text for today. As you do so pause at words or phrases that speak most especially to your preparation for the Christmas season that is now fast approaching.
Then take time to pray for your needs, the needs of your family and friends, and the needs of the world. When you have finnished that, continue with the prayer as follows:
Lord, have mercy upon us.
Christ, have mercy upon us.
Lord, have mercy upon us.
Christ, hear us.
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.
Christ, the Light of the world, empower us to shine as lights in this dark world of sin.
As we continue in this Advent season enable us to more faithfully seek your presence in our daily lives.
Come Lord Jesus, come.
Come and mold us, change us, use us.
We praise you, for you are good,
And your mercy endures forever. Amen.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Prayers for the First Sunday in Advent
The Watchword for the Week - Jesus says, "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away." Luke 21:33
Sing to the Lord a new song, for God has done marvelous things.
Rejoice greatly, shout for joy! See, your king is coming to you. He is righteous and brings salvation.
Psalm 25:1-10
1 To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.
2 O my God, in you I trust; do not let me be put to shame; do not let my enemies exult over me.
3 Do not let those who wait for you be put to shame; let them be ashamed who are wantonly treacherous.
4 Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths.
5 Lead me in your truth, and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all day long.
6 Be mindful of your mercy, O Lord, and of your steadfast love, for they have been from of old.
7 Do not remember the sins of my youth or my transgressions; according to your steadfast love remember me, for your goodness' sake, O Lord!
8 Good and upright is the Lord; therefore he instructs sinners in the way.
9 He leads the humble in what is right, and teaches the humble his way.
10 All the paths of the Lord are steadfast love and faithfulness, for those who keep his covenant and his decrees.
Hear the voice of John the Baptist calling to us from the wilderness, challenging us to prepare the way for the coming Messiah, to repent and to make our paths straight.
Gracious God, this Advent season stirs a longing to have Christ come alive within us, yet we allow ourselves to become enslaved to cynicism, selfishness, and greed. In a season for freely giving and receiving, we tend to live by debt and obligation. We rush from task to task, scarcely opening our eyes to the peace and beauty around us. We sing of one who was laid in a borrowed manger, but we ignore the poor and homeless around us. We decry the violence of a wicked king, yet we are too often silent in the face of abuse and injustice around us. For this and all our sins, forgive us.
Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to them and proclaim that they have suffered long enough, that their penalty is paid, and their sins are forgiven.
We are forgiven, may God lead us to live a new and nobler life today. Thanks be to God.
Take time now to read the Daily Texts for today or read a passage from the Bible. The Advent season invites us to ponder the expectant lives that anticipated the coming Messiah. Can we live our lives with that same expectation that Christ will come to us as well?
After you have read and pondered the text for the day, pray for needs of your community, and the world around you.
O Lord, Hear our Prayer:
Our Father, who art in heaven,
Hallowed be thy Name.
Thy kingdom come.
Thy will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
and the power,
and the glory,
for ever and ever. Amen.
Christ, the Light of the world, empower us to shine as lights in this dark world of sin.
Christ, lead us into good stewardship of creation that we and our children may preserve and enjoy the world entrusted to us.
O Emmanuel, God with Us, Jesus Christ, desire of every nation, Savior of all peoples,
come and dwell within our hearts and lives.
We praise you, for you are good,
And your mercy endures forever. Amen.
Sing to the Lord a new song, for God has done marvelous things.
Rejoice greatly, shout for joy! See, your king is coming to you. He is righteous and brings salvation.
Psalm 25:1-10
1 To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.
2 O my God, in you I trust; do not let me be put to shame; do not let my enemies exult over me.
3 Do not let those who wait for you be put to shame; let them be ashamed who are wantonly treacherous.
4 Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths.
5 Lead me in your truth, and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all day long.
6 Be mindful of your mercy, O Lord, and of your steadfast love, for they have been from of old.
7 Do not remember the sins of my youth or my transgressions; according to your steadfast love remember me, for your goodness' sake, O Lord!
8 Good and upright is the Lord; therefore he instructs sinners in the way.
9 He leads the humble in what is right, and teaches the humble his way.
10 All the paths of the Lord are steadfast love and faithfulness, for those who keep his covenant and his decrees.
Hear the voice of John the Baptist calling to us from the wilderness, challenging us to prepare the way for the coming Messiah, to repent and to make our paths straight.
Gracious God, this Advent season stirs a longing to have Christ come alive within us, yet we allow ourselves to become enslaved to cynicism, selfishness, and greed. In a season for freely giving and receiving, we tend to live by debt and obligation. We rush from task to task, scarcely opening our eyes to the peace and beauty around us. We sing of one who was laid in a borrowed manger, but we ignore the poor and homeless around us. We decry the violence of a wicked king, yet we are too often silent in the face of abuse and injustice around us. For this and all our sins, forgive us.
Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to them and proclaim that they have suffered long enough, that their penalty is paid, and their sins are forgiven.
We are forgiven, may God lead us to live a new and nobler life today. Thanks be to God.
Take time now to read the Daily Texts for today or read a passage from the Bible. The Advent season invites us to ponder the expectant lives that anticipated the coming Messiah. Can we live our lives with that same expectation that Christ will come to us as well?
After you have read and pondered the text for the day, pray for needs of your community, and the world around you.
O Lord, Hear our Prayer:
Our Father, who art in heaven,
Hallowed be thy Name.
Thy kingdom come.
Thy will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
But deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
and the power,
and the glory,
for ever and ever. Amen.
Christ, the Light of the world, empower us to shine as lights in this dark world of sin.
Christ, lead us into good stewardship of creation that we and our children may preserve and enjoy the world entrusted to us.
O Emmanuel, God with Us, Jesus Christ, desire of every nation, Savior of all peoples,
come and dwell within our hearts and lives.
We praise you, for you are good,
And your mercy endures forever. Amen.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Prayers for the 24th Week of Pentecost
The Watchword for the Week
Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for God who has promised is faithful. Hebrews 10:23
Almighty God, unto whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hid;
cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit,
Today may we perfectly love You, and worthily magnify your holy name,
And now visit us with your Holy Spirit as we open our hearts to you. Amen.
Psalm for the Week: Psalm 16
1 Protect me, O God, for in you I take refuge.
2 I say to the Lord, "You are my Lord; I have no good apart from you."
3 As for the holy ones in the land, they are the noble, in whom is all my delight.
4 Those who choose another god multiply their sorrows; their drink offerings of blood I will not pour out or take their names upon my lips.
5 The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot.
6 The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; I have a goodly heritage.
7 I bless the Lord who gives me counsel; in the night also my heart instructs me.
8 I keep the Lord always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.
9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my soul rejoices; my body also rests secure.
10 For you do not give me up to Sheol, or let your faithful one see the Pit.
11 You show me the path of life.
In your presence there is fullness of joy; in your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
We come before the throne of grace to unburden our hearts and to receive forgiveness. Let us confess our sin.
Gracious God, we affirm you as our creator, our redeemer, and the sustainer of our lives. You love us so very much that you have reached into our lives to claim us as your own. We confess however that we take your love for granted, and your grace is often forgotten. We allow our lives to become so cluttered that we forget to stop and count the steps that we have taken on any given day and ponder whether those steps have moved us closer or farther away from you. In so doing we cease to be faithful to you even as you have been faithful to us. We humbly ask that you would hear our prayer, know our hearts, and forgive us our sin.
The Lord says to each of us: “I will be merciful to your sins, and I will not remember them. Peace be unto you.” Let us give praise to the triune God:
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Take time now to read the Daily Texts for today or another passage of scripture. Don't just rush over words, take time to ponder most especially words that catch your attention today. Chances are these are things that God wants you to pay attention to.
Whey you are done with your reading take time to pray for yourself, or community, and for the needs of the world. When you are done with your prayer, continue reading below.
Lord, have mercy upon us.
Christ, have mercy upon us.
Lord, have mercy upon us.
Christ, hear us.
Creator of us all, we praise your name because you have lovingly made each one of us. May your intended purpose be made real here on earth, even as it is already done in heaven. Feed us today with those things that we truly need, and may we share our abundance with others. Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who have done wrong to us. In times of temptation, may we know of your life-giving strength, and keep us from all evil. Gracious God, this is your kingdom, and we acknowledge your power and glory, both now and forever more. AMEN.
Empowering God, just as you created the heavens and the earth,
May you create within us a new life.
Open the eyes of our hearts
To see the impact that our every word and action can have on the lives around us.
You give us each day as a blessed gift.
Guide us and lead us to be faithful to you, faithful to our calling, and faithful in all that we do and say.
May the love of God, the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit,
Be and abide with us now and forever. AMEN.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Prayers for the 24th Week of Pentecost
Watchword for the week:
The Lord lifts up those who are bowed down; the Lord loves the righteous. Psalm 146:8
The Lord is in the holy temple; let all the earth keep silence.
Gracious Lord, we are your holy temples when we acknowledge your presence within us.
As we marvel at the beauty of the changing seasons, we give praise to your creative power.
May we open our hearts to that same creative power within us.
Psalm for the Week:
Psalm 146
Praise be to God! Praise God, O my soul!
I will praise God as long as I live; I will sing praises to my God all my life long.
Do not put your trust in nobles,
in mortals, in whom there is no help.
When their breath departs, they return to the earth; on that very day their plans shall perish.
Happy are those whose help is the God of Jacob,
whose hope is in the Sovereign their God,
who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them; who keeps faith forever;
who executes justice for the oppressed;
who gives food to the hungry.
God sets the prisoners free; God opens the eyes of those who cannot see. God lifts up those who are bowed down; God loves the righteous.
God watches over the strangers
and upholds the orphan and the widow,
but the way of the wicked God brings to ruin.
The Sovereign will reign forever,
your God, O Zion, for all generations.
Praise be to God!
If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just, and will forgive us. Indeed we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ, the righteous one, and He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins.
Loving God, we thankfully acknowledge that you have stamped your very image within each of us and therefore we are holy, just as you are holy. We confess, however, there are times when we forget who you are, and therefore we lose sight of who we are both as individuals and as communities of faith. We ask that you forgive us for the times when we think of ourselves more highly that we ought and we refuse to acknowledge your holy image pressed within the essence of those who are around us, both near and far. Grant us today a humble spirit that seeks to honor you in the ways that we treat others.
The Lord says to each of us: “I will be merciful to your sins, and I will not remember them. Peace be unto you.” Let us therefore give praise to the triune God:
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Take time now to listen for God's direction in your life as you read the Daily Texts for today, or another selection of scripture. When you are done reading pray for the needs of your family, friends, and the world.
Lord, have mercy upon us.
Christ, have mercy upon us.
Lord, have mercy upon us.
Christ, hear us.
Creator of the heavens and earth, praise be to your holy name. We pray that the gracious ways of heaven may be made real in the world that we inhabit. We hunger for much more than food today, and we pray that you will satisfy us, and all who have need. We are awed by your forgiving nature, and pray that you would grant us a humble spirit with which to forgive each other. While we know that you have created us to be holy, we ask that you keep us from the temptation of living a life which would tarnish your image within us. You have created a world that is holy, and your glory and power are displayed in many wonderful ways; may we give thanks for your blessings all the days our lives, even as we live into eternity. Amen.
And so my brothers and sisters build yourselves up on your most holy faith.
May we be strengthened by the power of the Holy Spirit to pray every day and so be drawn closer to living a righteous life.
May we live a life that gives space for silence to ponder the mercy of our Lord, Jesus Christ,
and give praise for God’s miracle of the sacred within us and others.
And now unto the God who is able to keep you from falling, and to present you as holy before the throne of grace with exceeding joy,
To the only wise God, our Savior, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.
The Lord lifts up those who are bowed down; the Lord loves the righteous. Psalm 146:8
The Lord is in the holy temple; let all the earth keep silence.
Gracious Lord, we are your holy temples when we acknowledge your presence within us.
As we marvel at the beauty of the changing seasons, we give praise to your creative power.
May we open our hearts to that same creative power within us.
Psalm for the Week:
Psalm 146
Praise be to God! Praise God, O my soul!
I will praise God as long as I live; I will sing praises to my God all my life long.
Do not put your trust in nobles,
in mortals, in whom there is no help.
When their breath departs, they return to the earth; on that very day their plans shall perish.
Happy are those whose help is the God of Jacob,
whose hope is in the Sovereign their God,
who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them; who keeps faith forever;
who executes justice for the oppressed;
who gives food to the hungry.
God sets the prisoners free; God opens the eyes of those who cannot see. God lifts up those who are bowed down; God loves the righteous.
God watches over the strangers
and upholds the orphan and the widow,
but the way of the wicked God brings to ruin.
The Sovereign will reign forever,
your God, O Zion, for all generations.
Praise be to God!
If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just, and will forgive us. Indeed we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ, the righteous one, and He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins.
Loving God, we thankfully acknowledge that you have stamped your very image within each of us and therefore we are holy, just as you are holy. We confess, however, there are times when we forget who you are, and therefore we lose sight of who we are both as individuals and as communities of faith. We ask that you forgive us for the times when we think of ourselves more highly that we ought and we refuse to acknowledge your holy image pressed within the essence of those who are around us, both near and far. Grant us today a humble spirit that seeks to honor you in the ways that we treat others.
The Lord says to each of us: “I will be merciful to your sins, and I will not remember them. Peace be unto you.” Let us therefore give praise to the triune God:
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Take time now to listen for God's direction in your life as you read the Daily Texts for today, or another selection of scripture. When you are done reading pray for the needs of your family, friends, and the world.
Lord, have mercy upon us.
Christ, have mercy upon us.
Lord, have mercy upon us.
Christ, hear us.
Creator of the heavens and earth, praise be to your holy name. We pray that the gracious ways of heaven may be made real in the world that we inhabit. We hunger for much more than food today, and we pray that you will satisfy us, and all who have need. We are awed by your forgiving nature, and pray that you would grant us a humble spirit with which to forgive each other. While we know that you have created us to be holy, we ask that you keep us from the temptation of living a life which would tarnish your image within us. You have created a world that is holy, and your glory and power are displayed in many wonderful ways; may we give thanks for your blessings all the days our lives, even as we live into eternity. Amen.
And so my brothers and sisters build yourselves up on your most holy faith.
May we be strengthened by the power of the Holy Spirit to pray every day and so be drawn closer to living a righteous life.
May we live a life that gives space for silence to ponder the mercy of our Lord, Jesus Christ,
and give praise for God’s miracle of the sacred within us and others.
And now unto the God who is able to keep you from falling, and to present you as holy before the throne of grace with exceeding joy,
To the only wise God, our Savior, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Prayers for the 22nd Week of Pentecost
Hear, O Israel: The Lord is our God, the Lord alone. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might. Deuteronomy 6:4,5
Praise be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Praise be to the One who does wonderful things.
Open our eyes, Lord, that we may see the many ways that you have blessed us.
Open our ears, Lord, that we may hear the cries of need in the world and respond as you lead us.
Open our hearts, Lord, that we might feel your presence with us this day.
With all of our heart, and soul, and might, we give you honor and praise.
Psalm for the Week: Psalm 119:1-8
Happy are those whose way is blameless,
who walk in the law of God.
Happy are those who keep God's decrees,
who seek God with their whole heart, who also do no wrong, but walk in God's ways.
You have commanded that all your precepts shall be kept with diligence.
O that my ways may be steadfast in keeping your statutes!
Then I shall not be put to shame, having my eyes fixed on all your commandments.
I will praise you with an upright heart, when I learn your righteous ordinances.
I will observe your statutes;
do not utterly forsake me.
Let us confess our sins to our loving God:
Gracious God your way is perfect and your will for our lives can bring us meaning. But we confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart. We have at times disregarded your will for us by looking at the world through selfish eyes. We have acted in ways that has brought pain to us and others, and has separated us from your love. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. Hear now our desire to love you with all of our heart, soul, and might, and to love others as you love us. Give us the wisdom to see the world through your compassionate eyes and share your loving presence with those in need.
Hear the comforting words of our Lord: Your sins are forgiven. Go and sin no more.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Take time now to read the Daily Texts for the day. Don't rush over this as if it is a task to check off of your to do list for the day. As you read, anticipate that God will be sharing with you wisdom for your life. Ponder over words and phrases that happen to speak to you today. When you are done pray for the needs of a hurting world. Ask God to show you ways that you can be a light unto the world.
Lord, have mercy upon us.
Christ, have mercy upon us.
Lord, have mercy upon us.
Christ, hear us.
Creator of all humanity, we call you Holy, and seek to worship you all the days of our lives. We pray that the ways of your heavenly kingdom may be made real in the world that surrounds us. May the bread that we need for today be made available for us and all who are hungry; and may you forgive us, just as we are able to forgive those who have sinned against us. In the time of moral testing, may we listen first for your voice calling to us. This world, and all that is in it, always has been and always will be yours, help us to lose ourselves to you and your kingdom. Help us to find who we truly are as we walk in your light. Amen.
God of the past, present, and eternity,
Fill us with your grace.
For the living of this day,
Give us wisdom and direction.
For the desire to share your grace in tangible ways,
Give us passion and purpose.
Lord of life in whom we live, and move, and have our being,
May we follow you all the days of our lives.
We exalt you and praise your name,
For you have done wonderful things and we are thankful.
May the love God, the grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit,
Be and abide with us now and forever, Amen.
Praise be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Praise be to the One who does wonderful things.
Open our eyes, Lord, that we may see the many ways that you have blessed us.
Open our ears, Lord, that we may hear the cries of need in the world and respond as you lead us.
Open our hearts, Lord, that we might feel your presence with us this day.
With all of our heart, and soul, and might, we give you honor and praise.
Psalm for the Week: Psalm 119:1-8
Happy are those whose way is blameless,
who walk in the law of God.
Happy are those who keep God's decrees,
who seek God with their whole heart, who also do no wrong, but walk in God's ways.
You have commanded that all your precepts shall be kept with diligence.
O that my ways may be steadfast in keeping your statutes!
Then I shall not be put to shame, having my eyes fixed on all your commandments.
I will praise you with an upright heart, when I learn your righteous ordinances.
I will observe your statutes;
do not utterly forsake me.
Let us confess our sins to our loving God:
Gracious God your way is perfect and your will for our lives can bring us meaning. But we confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart. We have at times disregarded your will for us by looking at the world through selfish eyes. We have acted in ways that has brought pain to us and others, and has separated us from your love. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. Hear now our desire to love you with all of our heart, soul, and might, and to love others as you love us. Give us the wisdom to see the world through your compassionate eyes and share your loving presence with those in need.
Hear the comforting words of our Lord: Your sins are forgiven. Go and sin no more.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Take time now to read the Daily Texts for the day. Don't rush over this as if it is a task to check off of your to do list for the day. As you read, anticipate that God will be sharing with you wisdom for your life. Ponder over words and phrases that happen to speak to you today. When you are done pray for the needs of a hurting world. Ask God to show you ways that you can be a light unto the world.
Lord, have mercy upon us.
Christ, have mercy upon us.
Lord, have mercy upon us.
Christ, hear us.
Creator of all humanity, we call you Holy, and seek to worship you all the days of our lives. We pray that the ways of your heavenly kingdom may be made real in the world that surrounds us. May the bread that we need for today be made available for us and all who are hungry; and may you forgive us, just as we are able to forgive those who have sinned against us. In the time of moral testing, may we listen first for your voice calling to us. This world, and all that is in it, always has been and always will be yours, help us to lose ourselves to you and your kingdom. Help us to find who we truly are as we walk in your light. Amen.
God of the past, present, and eternity,
Fill us with your grace.
For the living of this day,
Give us wisdom and direction.
For the desire to share your grace in tangible ways,
Give us passion and purpose.
Lord of life in whom we live, and move, and have our being,
May we follow you all the days of our lives.
We exalt you and praise your name,
For you have done wonderful things and we are thankful.
May the love God, the grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit,
Be and abide with us now and forever, Amen.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Prayers for the 21st Week After Pentecost
The Watchword for the Week
The Lord has done great things for us.
Psalm 126:3
Gracious God,
In the midst of a busy day
We pause to build our lives around you.
In the midst of a busy life
We pause to build our lives around you.
In the midst of the pain that we carry in our hearts,
We pause to build our lives around you.
In the midst of our joyful celebration of the gift of life,
We pause to build our lives around you.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit,
As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Psalm for the Week: Psalm 126
When God restored the fortunes of Zion,
we were like those who dream.
Then our mouth was filled with laughter,
and our tongue with shouts of joy;
then it was said among the nations,
“God has done great things for them.”
God has done great things for us, and we rejoiced.
Restore our fortunes, O God, like the watercourses in the Negeb.
May those who sow in tears reap with shouts of joy.
Those who go out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, carrying their sheaves.
Let us confess our sins to our loving God:
(Adapted from the Liturgy of Christian Unity in the Moravian Book of Worship, page 125. Used by permission)
Gracious Lord and God we know that we will remain less that the whole persons you have called us to be in Christ Jesus until we acknowledge our sins to you, so we bow before you and pray: We confess that we have tried to run away and hide from you. We constantly deceive ourselves into thinking that we can live without you. We have made idols of our own achievements. We have treated other persons as though they did not bear your image. We have failed to enfold and include all persons within the outstretched and open arms of Jesus Christ, our Savior. And we have left undone those deeds of loving kindness and godly justice that you want us to pursue in your name. Bring your Spirit upon us in a gracious, healing way. Make us agents of reconciliation as we live within your holy presence. Amen.
Hear the comforting words of our Lord: Your sins are forgiven. Go and sin no more.
Thanks be to God.
Take time now to read the Daily Texts for today or read a selected passage of Scripture. When you have completed that, take time to pray for your needs, the needs of your commuity, and the needs of the world.
Lord, have mercy upon us.
Christ, have mercy upon us.
Lord, have mercy upon us.
Christ, hear us.
Creator of all humanity, we call you Holy, and seek to worship you all the days of our lives. We pray that the ways of your heavenly kingdom may be made real in the world that surrounds us. May the bread that we need for today be made available for us and all who are hungry; and may you forgive us, just as we are able to forgive those who have sinned against us. In the time of moral testing, may we listen first for your voice calling to us. This world, and all that is in it, always has been and always will be yours, help us to lose ourselves to you and your kingdom. Help us to find who we truly are as we walk in your light. Amen.
God of all creation we thank you for the great things you have done for us.
Help us to make you the cornerstone upon which we build our lives.
We thank you for the way that you have gifted each of us in unique and wonderful ways,
So that we may live gracefully as a reflection of what you have given us.
Savior of the world guide us to build our lives on you,
Fan the flames of our faith so that we may passionately share your love with those with whom we live, and work, and play.
May the love of God, the grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit,
Be with us throughout the living of this day we pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
The Lord has done great things for us.
Psalm 126:3
Gracious God,
In the midst of a busy day
We pause to build our lives around you.
In the midst of a busy life
We pause to build our lives around you.
In the midst of the pain that we carry in our hearts,
We pause to build our lives around you.
In the midst of our joyful celebration of the gift of life,
We pause to build our lives around you.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit,
As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Psalm for the Week: Psalm 126
When God restored the fortunes of Zion,
we were like those who dream.
Then our mouth was filled with laughter,
and our tongue with shouts of joy;
then it was said among the nations,
“God has done great things for them.”
God has done great things for us, and we rejoiced.
Restore our fortunes, O God, like the watercourses in the Negeb.
May those who sow in tears reap with shouts of joy.
Those who go out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, carrying their sheaves.
Let us confess our sins to our loving God:
(Adapted from the Liturgy of Christian Unity in the Moravian Book of Worship, page 125. Used by permission)
Gracious Lord and God we know that we will remain less that the whole persons you have called us to be in Christ Jesus until we acknowledge our sins to you, so we bow before you and pray: We confess that we have tried to run away and hide from you. We constantly deceive ourselves into thinking that we can live without you. We have made idols of our own achievements. We have treated other persons as though they did not bear your image. We have failed to enfold and include all persons within the outstretched and open arms of Jesus Christ, our Savior. And we have left undone those deeds of loving kindness and godly justice that you want us to pursue in your name. Bring your Spirit upon us in a gracious, healing way. Make us agents of reconciliation as we live within your holy presence. Amen.
Hear the comforting words of our Lord: Your sins are forgiven. Go and sin no more.
Thanks be to God.
Take time now to read the Daily Texts for today or read a selected passage of Scripture. When you have completed that, take time to pray for your needs, the needs of your commuity, and the needs of the world.
Lord, have mercy upon us.
Christ, have mercy upon us.
Lord, have mercy upon us.
Christ, hear us.
Creator of all humanity, we call you Holy, and seek to worship you all the days of our lives. We pray that the ways of your heavenly kingdom may be made real in the world that surrounds us. May the bread that we need for today be made available for us and all who are hungry; and may you forgive us, just as we are able to forgive those who have sinned against us. In the time of moral testing, may we listen first for your voice calling to us. This world, and all that is in it, always has been and always will be yours, help us to lose ourselves to you and your kingdom. Help us to find who we truly are as we walk in your light. Amen.
God of all creation we thank you for the great things you have done for us.
Help us to make you the cornerstone upon which we build our lives.
We thank you for the way that you have gifted each of us in unique and wonderful ways,
So that we may live gracefully as a reflection of what you have given us.
Savior of the world guide us to build our lives on you,
Fan the flames of our faith so that we may passionately share your love with those with whom we live, and work, and play.
May the love of God, the grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit,
Be with us throughout the living of this day we pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Prayers for the 17th Week After Pentecost
The Watchword for the Week:
The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is clear, enlightening the eyes. Psalm 19:8
From the busyness that fills our daily lives,
We gather to fix our attention on God’s way.
From the distractions that re-order our life’s priorities,
We gather to fix our attention on God’s way.
From the slumber into which our faith can sometimes fall,
We gather to fix our attention on God’s way.
Psalm 19: 7-14
The law of God is perfect,
reviving the soul;
the decrees of God are sure,
making wise the simple;
the precepts of God are right,
rejoicing the heart;
the commandment of God is clear,
enlightening the eyes;
the fear of God is pure,
enduring forever;
the ordinances of God are true
and righteous altogether.
More to be desired are they than gold,
even much fine gold;
sweeter also than honey,
and drippings of the honeycomb.
Moreover by them is your servant warned;
in keeping them there is great reward.
But who can detect their errors?
Clear me from hidden faults.
Keep back your servant also
from the insolent;
do not let them have dominion over me.
Then I shall be blameless,
and innocent of great transgression.
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you,
O God, my rock and my redeemer.
Let us humbly confess our sins.
Gracious God, we affirm that your way is perfect. The Biblical witness and the life of Jesus Christ give us the pattern by which we should live out our faith, but we have chosen to walk on our own path. We confess that we have found it all too easy to follow the way of our culture and have made keeping your commandments an option, rather than an expectation for our lives.
So we humbly ask that you create in us a clean heart, O God, and place within us that understanding that will help us to see your way and to observe it with our whole heart.
Lord have mercy on us.
The Lord says to us: I will forgive your iniquity and remember your sin no more. Peace be with you.
With grateful hearts we say: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Take time now to read and ponder the Daily Texts for today or read one of this week's assigned Scripture lessons from the Lectionary. Don't rush over this as if it were a task to complete, instead anticipate that in some way God is gifting you with words of wisdom for use in your daily life. This week's lessons are as follows: Numbers 11:4-6,10-16,24-29; Psalm 19:7-14James 5:13-20; Mark 9:38-50.
After reading the Texts for today, pray for yourself, those you love, and for the needs of a hurtig world. Pray for peace in those parts of the world that are currently in the midst of war. Remember that people on both sides of a conflict lose loved ones.
Use the following prayer to complete your time of intersession:
Creator of us all, we praise your name because you have lovingly made each one of us. May your intended purpose be made real here on earth, even as it is already done in heaven. Feed us today with those things that we truly need, and may we share our abundance with others. Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who have done wrong to us. In times of temptation, may we know of your life giving strength, and keep us from all evil. Gracious God, this is your kingdom, and we acknowledge your power and glory, both now and forever more. AMEN.
Just as God created an Eden in which all was made to work together,
God has created a pattern of life which is intended to bring us to wholeness.
That wholeness was shown to us as Jesus brought the law of God into human form.
Jesus showed us a way of grace and forgiveness even though life was made difficult for him by the sin of the world.
We pray that God might awaken in us the desire to follow his path more closely amidst the temptations and difficulties of our lives.
Come, Holy Spirit, show us the way, the truth, and the life.
Whatever we do, therefore, whether in word or deed, let us do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Thanks be to God. Amen.
The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is clear, enlightening the eyes. Psalm 19:8
From the busyness that fills our daily lives,
We gather to fix our attention on God’s way.
From the distractions that re-order our life’s priorities,
We gather to fix our attention on God’s way.
From the slumber into which our faith can sometimes fall,
We gather to fix our attention on God’s way.
Psalm 19: 7-14
The law of God is perfect,
reviving the soul;
the decrees of God are sure,
making wise the simple;
the precepts of God are right,
rejoicing the heart;
the commandment of God is clear,
enlightening the eyes;
the fear of God is pure,
enduring forever;
the ordinances of God are true
and righteous altogether.
More to be desired are they than gold,
even much fine gold;
sweeter also than honey,
and drippings of the honeycomb.
Moreover by them is your servant warned;
in keeping them there is great reward.
But who can detect their errors?
Clear me from hidden faults.
Keep back your servant also
from the insolent;
do not let them have dominion over me.
Then I shall be blameless,
and innocent of great transgression.
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you,
O God, my rock and my redeemer.
Let us humbly confess our sins.
Gracious God, we affirm that your way is perfect. The Biblical witness and the life of Jesus Christ give us the pattern by which we should live out our faith, but we have chosen to walk on our own path. We confess that we have found it all too easy to follow the way of our culture and have made keeping your commandments an option, rather than an expectation for our lives.
So we humbly ask that you create in us a clean heart, O God, and place within us that understanding that will help us to see your way and to observe it with our whole heart.
Lord have mercy on us.
The Lord says to us: I will forgive your iniquity and remember your sin no more. Peace be with you.
With grateful hearts we say: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Take time now to read and ponder the Daily Texts for today or read one of this week's assigned Scripture lessons from the Lectionary. Don't rush over this as if it were a task to complete, instead anticipate that in some way God is gifting you with words of wisdom for use in your daily life. This week's lessons are as follows: Numbers 11:4-6,10-16,24-29; Psalm 19:7-14James 5:13-20; Mark 9:38-50.
After reading the Texts for today, pray for yourself, those you love, and for the needs of a hurtig world. Pray for peace in those parts of the world that are currently in the midst of war. Remember that people on both sides of a conflict lose loved ones.
Use the following prayer to complete your time of intersession:
Creator of us all, we praise your name because you have lovingly made each one of us. May your intended purpose be made real here on earth, even as it is already done in heaven. Feed us today with those things that we truly need, and may we share our abundance with others. Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who have done wrong to us. In times of temptation, may we know of your life giving strength, and keep us from all evil. Gracious God, this is your kingdom, and we acknowledge your power and glory, both now and forever more. AMEN.
Just as God created an Eden in which all was made to work together,
God has created a pattern of life which is intended to bring us to wholeness.
That wholeness was shown to us as Jesus brought the law of God into human form.
Jesus showed us a way of grace and forgiveness even though life was made difficult for him by the sin of the world.
We pray that God might awaken in us the desire to follow his path more closely amidst the temptations and difficulties of our lives.
Come, Holy Spirit, show us the way, the truth, and the life.
Whatever we do, therefore, whether in word or deed, let us do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Thanks be to God. Amen.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Prayers for the 13th Week after Pentecost
The Watchword for the week:
Let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger. James 1:19
Come, let us worship and bow down,
Let us give thanks to the One who hears our prayers and is quick to forgive.
We can take comfort in knowing that the Spirit of God is upon us today.
Give us, O God, the grace to bring you the sacrifice of a broken and contrite heart, which you will not despise.
O God, who may abide in your tent? Who may dwell on your holy hill?
Those who walk blamelessly, and do what is right, who speak the truth from their heart,
and do not slander with their tongue, and do no evil to their friends,
nor take up a reproach against their neighbors; in whose eyes the wicked are despised,
but who honor those who fear God; who stand by their oath even to their hurt;
who do not lend money at interest, and do not take a bribe against the innocent. Those who do these things shall never be moved.
A Prayer of Confession:
In truth and honesty, let us draw near to the throne of grace and confess our sins to God.
Forgive us Lord when we have put our material possessions as gods in our lives.
Forgive us Lord for making idols of our accomplishments, and for placing others before you as primary in our lives.
Forgive us Lord when the words spoken from our lips have not brought honor to you or your kingdom.
Forgive us Lord when we have forgotten or refused to take our rest in you.
Forgive us Lord when we fail to respect those who have passed the faith on to us.
Forgive us Lord when we injure or damage the emotional lives of others.
Forgive us Lord when we fail to keep the promises made to even those most close to us.
Forgive us Lord when we hoard our wealth at the expense of others.
Forgive us Lord when we lie to conceal our own mistakes.
Forgive us Lord when we spend time and energy wanting things that we don’t need.
Forgive us Lord when we fail to do your will.
The Lord your Redeemer says: Now your guilt is gone and your sins are forgiven. Let us give praise to God.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Take time now to read the Daily Texts. When you have finished with the prayer for the day, continue in a period of silence. Reflect on words and phrases from the readings, ponder those things which seem to linger in your soul. Take time also to prayer for the issues and persons that are not only close to your heart, but those things which impact the world. When you are finished, continue with the prayer as follows:
O Lord, hear us now as we, brothers and sisters in Christ, pray together.
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever. Amen.
Lord, as we continue our journey in life,
Help us to put our trust in you.
As we come to doubt our abilities,
Help us to know that you make us complete.
As we fear for the health and welfare of those that we love,
Help us to know that you are with both them and us.
As we come to doubt that we are making a difference in your Church,
Help us to know that this is your Church and we simply have to be faithful to your call to us.
As we come seek to listen more intently, speak more carefully, and anger less often,
Help us to know that your grace gives us new life both here, and in the world yet to come.
Shout for joy all people of God, rejoice all the earth! The glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all people together will see it. For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.
Blessed be the name of the Lord in whom we live, labor, and love. Amen.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Prayers for the 12th Week in Pentecost
The Watchword for this Week:
Jesus says, "The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life." John 6:63
How wonderful are your ways, loving God.
We look at the wonderful world which you have created, and we are filled with awe.
While we marvel at the complexity of this creation we are even more amazed at the love that you have for all of it, including humanity.
Compassion and steadfast love is what sets you apart from all else in this world. How wonderful you are.
Psalm 34:15-22
The eyes of God are on the righteous, and God's ears are open to their cry.
The face of God is against evildoers, to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth.
When the righteous cry for help, God hears, and rescues them from all their troubles.
God is near to the brokenhearted, and saves the crushed in spirit.
Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but God rescues them from them all.
God keeps all their bones; not one of them will be broken.
Evil brings death to the wicked, and those who hate the righteous will be condemned.
God redeems the life of those who serve God; none of those who take refuge in God will be condemned.
In truth and honesty, let us draw near to the throne of grace and confess our sins to God.
God of spirit and life we come to you with a humble heart and a contrite spirit asking for your grace to be showered upon us. As we consider the pattern of your spirit we feel inadequate to even approach you, but hear us as we ask your forgiveness. We confess that we have not always reflected your compassion to those around us. While we find it easy to be compassionate towards those whom we love, we find that it is harder to do that with those who we consider to be our enemies. We find it easy to keep a score of those who have wronged us, while we ignore the pain that we have inflicted on others. Help us to look first at how we can best transform ourselves into a more faithful reflection of your love, instead of how we can change those with whom we have conflicted feelings. We hunger for your spirit and life, feed us this day. Amen.
The Lord your Redeemer says: Now your guilt is gone and your sins are forgiven. Let us give praise to God.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Take time now to read the Daily Texts for today. Don't rush to get the reading done, pause at words that happen to catch your spirit today. Ponder them, meditate on them, and pray.
When you have finished the prayer, continue as follows:
O Lord, hear us now as we, brothers and sisters in Christ, pray together.
Creator of all humanity, we call you Holy, and seek to worship you all the days of our lives. We pray that the ways of your heavenly kingdom may be made real in the world that surrounds us. May the bread that we need for today be made available for us and all who are hungry; and may you forgive us, just as we are able to forgive those who have sinned against us. In the time of moral testing, may we listen first for your voice calling to us, instead of the call of the world; take from us the self-centeredness of our society. This world, and all that is in it, always has been and always will be yours, help us to lose ourselves to you and your kingdom. Help us to find who we truly are as we walk in your light. Amen.
Lord, you now have set your servant free
to go in peace as you have promised;
for these eyes of mine have seen the Savior,
Whom you have prepared for all the world to see.
A Light to en-lighten the nations,
And the glory of your people Israel.
Send forth your Spirit, Lord,
Renew the face of the earth.
Creator Spirit, come and enable us to have compassion on others.
Feed our hungry hearts with spirit and life.
Lord, hear our prayer,
And let our cry come to You.
Let us bless the Lord.
Thanks be to God! Amen.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Prayers for the 8th Week in Pentecost
The watchword for the week: The Lord is faithful in all his words, and gracious in all his deeds. Psalm 145:13
Gracious God, we seek only to give you praise
To lift our hearts to you so that we may learn of your never ending love.
We are a distracted people
Too often we follow the whims of our fantasies, and the ways of our culture.
Call us back to you
So that we may know you more clearly, and walk in the light of your path.
Psalm 145:10-18
10 All your works shall give thanks to you, O Lord, and all your faithful shall bless you.
11 They shall speak of the glory of your kingdom, and tell of your power, 12 to make known to all people your mighty deeds, and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.
13 Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures throughout all generations. The Lord is faithful in all his words, and gracious in all his deeds.
14 The Lord upholds all who are falling, and raises up all who are bowed down.
15 The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food in due season.
16 You open your hand, satisfying the desire of every living thing.
17 The Lord is just in all his ways, and kind in all his doings.
18 The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.
Let us confess our Sins:
God of all people, we know your love to be steadfast, gracious, and merciful. We know you to be one who is slow to anger, whose compassion is given to all of humanity, and one who is faithful in all your words and deeds. As we look at our lives and the failed attempts to be anything like you are, we confess that sometimes we want to give up. You are too wonderful for us and we don’t deserve your graciousness. We thank you that your love for each of us is based not on our ability to perfectly reflect your ways but rather on your steadfast love. Hear our confession, know our hearts, and bring us home to you.
Hear the gracious words of our Savior, “Your sins are forgiven, go and sin no more. Give praise to God!
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Take time now to read the Daily Texts for the day. After praying the written prayer, lift up to God those persons and places that need God's helping hand today. When you have finished your prayer, continue as follows:
O Lord, hear us now as we brothers and sisters in Christ pray together.
Creator of all humanity, we call you Holy, and seek to worship you all the days of our lives. We pray that the ways of your heavenly kingdom may be made real in the world that surrounds us. May the bread that we need for today be made available for us and all who are hungry; and may you forgive us, just as we are able to forgive those who have sinned against us. In the time of moral testing, may we listen first for your voice calling to us, instead of the call of the world; take from us the self-centeredness of our society. This world, and all that is in it, always has been and always will be yours, help us to lose ourselves to you and your kingdom. Help us to find who we truly are as we walk in your light. Amen.
We as children of God seek to follow in the ways of God.
We acknowledge that God’s way is faithfulness and abounding in grace.
We confess that we often find it hard to extend grace to all people in our lives.
Loving God, we ask that your Holy Spirit guide the words of our mouths and actions of our lives so that they might be more closely aligned with your love and grace.
Our world needs God’s presence, and God asks, “Whom shall I send? Who will be my messenger?
And like Isaiah, we respond: “I will go. Send Me.”
Go in peace to love and serve the Lord. Amen.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Prayers for the 7th Week in Pentecost
The Watchword for the Week:
So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens with the saints and members of the household of God. Ephesians 2:19
Sometimes we feel alone and weary.
Sometimes we stumble in the chaos of life.
Sometimes we find no comfort from the stress of life.
Sometimes the table seems bare.
So come, all who are weary and need rest.
We seek a home in which we can listen to God’s still, small voice.
Psalm 23
1 The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters;
3 he restores my soul. He leads me in right paths for his name's sake.
4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff— they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord my whole life long.
Let us confess our Sins:
Loving God, we are a wandering people. We seek after riches, convenience, and easy answers, and in doing so we find ourselves far removed from your loving embrace. So hear now the confessions of our hearts, help us to find our way home to you.
(Silent Prayer of Confession)
Without Christ we were strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus we who were once far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. He is our peace.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Take time now to read the Daily Texts for today. After you have finished the prayer, continue in that spirit by lifting up your needs, as well as those of your your community of faith and the world to God. In doing so ask not that God take care these things for you, but ask that you be given the wisdom and strength to be God's servant in taking are of these needs. When you have completed your prayer, continue as follows:
O Lord, hear us now as we brothers and sisters in Christ pray together:
Our Father in Heaven, Hallowed be your Name, Your kingdom come, Your will be done, On earth as in Heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins As we forgive those Who sin against us. Lead us not into temptation But deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, And the glory are yours Now and forever. Amen.
I am a God nearby, says the Lord. Do I not fill heaven and earth? I am the Lord your God. I have called you out from the peoples and you shall be holy to me.
We declare your praise, the One who called us out of darkness into your wonderful light. We are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to you.
Let us in faith keep our eyes fixed on the promises of God, rather than the distractions of this world.
We confess that we are strangers and foreigners on earth, a people who are seeking our true home.
We desire a better place, that is, a heavenly one. Indeed, God has prepared a city for us.
Let us set aside those things that keep us from accepting God’s grace as the guiding force in our lives.
Almighty God, unto whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hid;
Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of Your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love You, and worthily magnify Your holy name, through Christ the Lord. Amen.
So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens with the saints and members of the household of God. Ephesians 2:19
Sometimes we feel alone and weary.
Sometimes we stumble in the chaos of life.
Sometimes we find no comfort from the stress of life.
Sometimes the table seems bare.
So come, all who are weary and need rest.
We seek a home in which we can listen to God’s still, small voice.
Psalm 23
1 The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters;
3 he restores my soul. He leads me in right paths for his name's sake.
4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff— they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord my whole life long.
Let us confess our Sins:
Loving God, we are a wandering people. We seek after riches, convenience, and easy answers, and in doing so we find ourselves far removed from your loving embrace. So hear now the confessions of our hearts, help us to find our way home to you.
(Silent Prayer of Confession)
Without Christ we were strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus we who were once far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. He is our peace.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Take time now to read the Daily Texts for today. After you have finished the prayer, continue in that spirit by lifting up your needs, as well as those of your your community of faith and the world to God. In doing so ask not that God take care these things for you, but ask that you be given the wisdom and strength to be God's servant in taking are of these needs. When you have completed your prayer, continue as follows:
O Lord, hear us now as we brothers and sisters in Christ pray together:
Our Father in Heaven, Hallowed be your Name, Your kingdom come, Your will be done, On earth as in Heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins As we forgive those Who sin against us. Lead us not into temptation But deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, And the glory are yours Now and forever. Amen.
I am a God nearby, says the Lord. Do I not fill heaven and earth? I am the Lord your God. I have called you out from the peoples and you shall be holy to me.
We declare your praise, the One who called us out of darkness into your wonderful light. We are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to you.
Let us in faith keep our eyes fixed on the promises of God, rather than the distractions of this world.
We confess that we are strangers and foreigners on earth, a people who are seeking our true home.
We desire a better place, that is, a heavenly one. Indeed, God has prepared a city for us.
Let us set aside those things that keep us from accepting God’s grace as the guiding force in our lives.
Almighty God, unto whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hid;
Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of Your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love You, and worthily magnify Your holy name, through Christ the Lord. Amen.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Prayers for the 4th Week After Pentecost
The watchword for the week: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end. Lamentations 3:22
O come let us worship and lift our hearts high
and adore our God, our Creator.
For you indeed are God,
and we are your people,
crafted by the skill of your hands.
Psalm 30
1 I will extol you, O Lord, for you have drawn me up, and did not let my foes rejoice over me.
2 O Lord my God, I cried to you for help, and you have healed me.
3 O Lord, you brought up my soul from Sheol, restored me to life from among those gone down to the Pit.
4 Sing praises to the Lord, O you his faithful ones, and give thanks to his holy name.
5 For his anger is but for a moment; his favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may linger for the night, but joy comes with the morning.
6 As for me, I said in my prosperity, "I shall never be moved."
7 By your favor, O Lord, you had established me as a strong mountain; you hid your face; I was dismayed.
8 To you, O Lord, I cried, and to the Lord I made supplication:
9 "What profit is there in my death, if I go down to the Pit? Will the dust praise you? Will it tell of your faithfulness?
10 Hear, O Lord, and be gracious to me! O Lord, be my helper!"
11 You have turned my mourning into dancing; you have taken off my sackcloth and clothed me with joy,
12 so that my soul may praise you and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to you forever.
Let us Confess our Sins:
Gracious God, we are thankful that your love is steadfast towards us. Your love is unwavering, unconditional, and given freely and abundantly. We acknowledge that our love for you has wavered and become lukewarm. We confess that at times we have been unfaithful servants seeking after worldly acceptance, self gratification, and material gain. We often deceive ourselves into thinking that we can live without you, and act in ways which prove that we think your eyes are turned and your ears are closed to us. Lead us into lives worthy of our calling in Christ, with humility and patience, bearing one another in love, and eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. We pray for this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Thanks be to God, who has loved us from the beginning, and who promises that if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and will purify us from all unrighteousness.
Our Sovereign Lord will wipe away the tears from all faces; he will remove the disgrace of his people from the earth. In that day we will say, “Surely this is our God; we trusted in him, and he saved us. Let us rejoice in his salvation.”
Take time now to read today's Daily Text, and then pray for the needs of those close to you, and the needs of those around the world. When you are finished continue as follows:
O Lord, hear us now as we brothers and sisters in Christ pray together.
Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins
as we forgive those who sin against us.
Save us from the time of trial
and deliver us from evil.
For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours
now and for ever. Amen.
O come let us worship and lift our hearts high
and adore our God, our Creator.
For you indeed are God,
and we are your people,
crafted by the skill of your hands.
Psalm 30
1 I will extol you, O Lord, for you have drawn me up, and did not let my foes rejoice over me.
2 O Lord my God, I cried to you for help, and you have healed me.
3 O Lord, you brought up my soul from Sheol, restored me to life from among those gone down to the Pit.
4 Sing praises to the Lord, O you his faithful ones, and give thanks to his holy name.
5 For his anger is but for a moment; his favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may linger for the night, but joy comes with the morning.
6 As for me, I said in my prosperity, "I shall never be moved."
7 By your favor, O Lord, you had established me as a strong mountain; you hid your face; I was dismayed.
8 To you, O Lord, I cried, and to the Lord I made supplication:
9 "What profit is there in my death, if I go down to the Pit? Will the dust praise you? Will it tell of your faithfulness?
10 Hear, O Lord, and be gracious to me! O Lord, be my helper!"
11 You have turned my mourning into dancing; you have taken off my sackcloth and clothed me with joy,
12 so that my soul may praise you and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to you forever.
Let us Confess our Sins:
Gracious God, we are thankful that your love is steadfast towards us. Your love is unwavering, unconditional, and given freely and abundantly. We acknowledge that our love for you has wavered and become lukewarm. We confess that at times we have been unfaithful servants seeking after worldly acceptance, self gratification, and material gain. We often deceive ourselves into thinking that we can live without you, and act in ways which prove that we think your eyes are turned and your ears are closed to us. Lead us into lives worthy of our calling in Christ, with humility and patience, bearing one another in love, and eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. We pray for this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Thanks be to God, who has loved us from the beginning, and who promises that if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and will purify us from all unrighteousness.
Our Sovereign Lord will wipe away the tears from all faces; he will remove the disgrace of his people from the earth. In that day we will say, “Surely this is our God; we trusted in him, and he saved us. Let us rejoice in his salvation.”
Take time now to read today's Daily Text, and then pray for the needs of those close to you, and the needs of those around the world. When you are finished continue as follows:
O Lord, hear us now as we brothers and sisters in Christ pray together.
Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins
as we forgive those who sin against us.
Save us from the time of trial
and deliver us from evil.
For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours
now and for ever. Amen.
You send us to bring good news to the oppressed,
and to bind the wounds of those broken in heart,
to proclaim liberty to the captives,
and the opening of prisons to those who are bound,
to announce the year of your grace,
to comfort all who mourn,
to give them a garland of consolation,
instead of the ashes of mourning,
the oil of gladness and healing,
and the rolling tears that wash away sorrow.
So may we be called oaks of righteousness,
trees that you plant to shade and sustain.
As the earth puts forth its blossom,
and as seeds in the garden spring up,
so you make justice flower,
and bear its fruit of peace among the peoples.
Lord of the dance, in whom we live and move and exult for joy, guide our steps through the complexity of our lives.
Keep us mindful of your steadfast love for us, and ways in which we can make that love come alive in the hearts of those that we love, serve, and come in contact with this very day. AMEN.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Prayers for the 4th Week in Pentecost
We greet you with gladness,
and celebrate your presence with a song.
For we know that you are creating us,
you are alive in us and we belong to you.
We enter your gates, a motley procession,
But we enter with heartfelt thanksgiving and joy.
For you are gracious and your embrace is compassionate,
faithful through all generations.
Psalm 107:1-3, 23-32
1 O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever.
2 Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, those he redeemed from trouble
3 and gathered in from the lands, from the east and from the west, from the north and from the south.
23 Some went down to the sea in ships, doing business on the mighty waters; 24 they saw the deeds of the Lord, his wondrous works in the deep.
25 For he commanded and raised the stormy wind, which lifted up the waves of the sea.
26 They mounted up to heaven, they went down to the depths; their courage melted away in their calamity;
27 they reeled and staggered like drunkards, and were at their wits' end.
28 Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he brought them out from their distress;
29 he made the storm be still, and the waves of the sea were hushed.
30 Then they were glad because they had quiet, and he brought them to their desired haven.
31 Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wonderful works to humankind.
32 Let them extol him in the congregation of the people, and praise him in the assembly of the elders.
Let us Confess our Sins:
O God, we thank you for sending the gift of your steadfast love to us each day even though we do not always claim it. Move us, by your Spirit, to accept your love, and share it freely with those who need it. Forgive us when:
· We are slow to seek reconciliation with others,
· When we cling to the feeling of having been wronged,
· When we fail to work for the redemption of people whom we do not like,
· When we fail to extend to others the same compassion you freely give to us.
Break in on our selfishness, and astonish us anew, O God! Our prayer is that you will claim us again and strengthen us to respond to the needs of those who are hurting. Amen.
We are enabled to be kind to one another, to be tenderhearted, to forgive one another, and to be forgiven, because Jesus feeds us with his life. A life given to save us from sin. Hear, then, the good news: those who are in Christ are a new creation; the old has passed away, behold the new has come. Thanks be to God!
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be, world without end, Amen.
Reading of the Daily Texts
Take time now to pray for your needs, the needs within your congregation, your community, and the world. When you are finished with your prayer, proceed as follows:
Let us now pray together:
Creator of us all, we praise your name because you have lovingly made each one of us. May your intended purpose be made real here on earth, even as it is already done in heaven. Feed us today with those things that we truly need, and may we share our abundance with others. Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who have done wrong to us. In times of temptation, may we know of your live giving strength, and keep us from all evil. Gracious God, this is your kingdom, and we acknowledge your power and glory, both now and forever more. AMEN.
Jesus makes my heart rejoice,
I’m his sheep and know his voice,
He’s a shepherd kind and gracious,
And his pastures are delicious,
Constant love to me he shows,
Yea my very name he knows.
(Hymn 662 v.1)
And now may the love of God, the grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit,
Be with us now and forever. Amen.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Prayers in Celebration of the Trinity
The watchword for the Week: Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory. Isaiah 6:3
Let the whole earth be joyful in you, O God,
We greet you with gladness,
and celebrate your presence with us,
For we know that you are creating us,
you are alive in us and we belong to you.
You are weaving us into a marvelous tapestry,
a people of diverse threads and colors.
We enter your gates, a motley procession,
with heartfelt thanksgiving and joy.
We dance with delight and bless one another,
in the Spirit of your love, intimate and just.
For you are gracious and your embrace is compassionate,
faithful through all generations.
Psalm 29
1 Ascribe to the Lord, O heavenly beings, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.
2 Ascribe to the Lord the glory of his name; worship the Lord in holy splendor.
3 The voice of the Lord is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the Lord, over mighty waters.
4 The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is full of majesty.
5 The voice of the Lord breaks the cedars; the Lord breaks the cedars of Lebanon.
6 He makes Lebanon skip like a calf, and Sirion like a young wild ox.
7 The voice of the Lord flashes forth flames of fire. The voice of the Lord shakes the wilderness; the Lord shakes the wilderness of Kadesh.
9 The voice of the Lord causes the oaks to whirl, and strips the forest bare; and in his temple all say, "Glory!"
10 The Lord sits enthroned over the flood; the Lord sits enthroned as king forever.
11 May the Lord give strength to his people! May the Lord bless his people with peace!
Let us Confess our Sins:
Gracious God, your majesty is seen throughout the world.
But often we are too busy to notice.
Gracious God, your beauty is seen in the vast diversity of races, and clans, and tribes,
But often we allow differences of color, culture, and class, to divide us rather than give us a better picture of your creative power.
Gracious God, you call us to share your glory with all people.
But often we become too concerned with our own needs and wants, and forget the pain of others. Forgive us creator God, redeem us loving Savior, renew us empowering Spirit.
(Silent Reflection)
We are enabled to be kind to one another, to be tenderhearted, to forgive one another, and to be forgiven, because Jesus feeds us with his life. A life given to save us from sin. Hear, then, the good news: those who are in Christ are a new creation; the old has passed away, behold the new has come. Thanks be to God! Amen!
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be, world without end, Amen.
Take time now to read the Daily Texts, reflect on them, and then after reading the prayer for the day, continue to pray for your needs, the needs of your congregation, friends, and family, and then for the needs of the world. After that, continue as follows:
Let us pray together:
Creator of us all, we praise your name because you have lovingly made each one of us. May your intended purpose be made real here on earth, even as it is already done in heaven. Feed us today with those things that we truly need, and may we share our abundance with others. Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who have done wrong to us. In times of temptation, may we know of your life giving strength, and keep us from all evil. Gracious God, this is your kingdom, and we acknowledge your power and glory, both now and forever more. AMEN.
Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God almighty.
We offer ourselves to you again this day.
Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God almighty,
Create in us a clean heart.
Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God almighty,
Bring us back to you and to your will.
Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God almighty,
Empower us for ministry in all that we do and say.
And now may the love of God, the grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit,
Be with us now and forever. Amen.
Let the whole earth be joyful in you, O God,
We greet you with gladness,
and celebrate your presence with us,
For we know that you are creating us,
you are alive in us and we belong to you.
You are weaving us into a marvelous tapestry,
a people of diverse threads and colors.
We enter your gates, a motley procession,
with heartfelt thanksgiving and joy.
We dance with delight and bless one another,
in the Spirit of your love, intimate and just.
For you are gracious and your embrace is compassionate,
faithful through all generations.
Psalm 29
1 Ascribe to the Lord, O heavenly beings, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.
2 Ascribe to the Lord the glory of his name; worship the Lord in holy splendor.
3 The voice of the Lord is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the Lord, over mighty waters.
4 The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is full of majesty.
5 The voice of the Lord breaks the cedars; the Lord breaks the cedars of Lebanon.
6 He makes Lebanon skip like a calf, and Sirion like a young wild ox.
7 The voice of the Lord flashes forth flames of fire. The voice of the Lord shakes the wilderness; the Lord shakes the wilderness of Kadesh.
9 The voice of the Lord causes the oaks to whirl, and strips the forest bare; and in his temple all say, "Glory!"
10 The Lord sits enthroned over the flood; the Lord sits enthroned as king forever.
11 May the Lord give strength to his people! May the Lord bless his people with peace!
Let us Confess our Sins:
Gracious God, your majesty is seen throughout the world.
But often we are too busy to notice.
Gracious God, your beauty is seen in the vast diversity of races, and clans, and tribes,
But often we allow differences of color, culture, and class, to divide us rather than give us a better picture of your creative power.
Gracious God, you call us to share your glory with all people.
But often we become too concerned with our own needs and wants, and forget the pain of others. Forgive us creator God, redeem us loving Savior, renew us empowering Spirit.
(Silent Reflection)
We are enabled to be kind to one another, to be tenderhearted, to forgive one another, and to be forgiven, because Jesus feeds us with his life. A life given to save us from sin. Hear, then, the good news: those who are in Christ are a new creation; the old has passed away, behold the new has come. Thanks be to God! Amen!
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be, world without end, Amen.
Take time now to read the Daily Texts, reflect on them, and then after reading the prayer for the day, continue to pray for your needs, the needs of your congregation, friends, and family, and then for the needs of the world. After that, continue as follows:
Let us pray together:
Creator of us all, we praise your name because you have lovingly made each one of us. May your intended purpose be made real here on earth, even as it is already done in heaven. Feed us today with those things that we truly need, and may we share our abundance with others. Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who have done wrong to us. In times of temptation, may we know of your life giving strength, and keep us from all evil. Gracious God, this is your kingdom, and we acknowledge your power and glory, both now and forever more. AMEN.
Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God almighty.
We offer ourselves to you again this day.
Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God almighty,
Create in us a clean heart.
Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God almighty,
Bring us back to you and to your will.
Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God almighty,
Empower us for ministry in all that we do and say.
And now may the love of God, the grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit,
Be with us now and forever. Amen.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Prayers for the 7th Week in Easter
The Watchword for the week:
Jesus says, "Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth." John 17:17
From the busyness of this day we gather to hear God’s call to us.
We gather together at the throne of grace to pray for ourselves, our loved ones, the Church, and the needs of a hurting world.
We gather in God’s presence to hear the truth,
So that we might speak it, and live it in our daily lives.
Psalm 1
1 Happy are those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or take the path that sinners tread, or sit in the seat of scoffers;
2 but their delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law they meditate day and night.
3 They are like trees planted by streams of water, which yield their fruit in its season, and their leaves do not wither. In all that they do, they prosper.
4 The wicked are not so, but are like chaff that the wind drives away.
5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous;
6 for the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish.
Together, let us confess our sins:
Gracious Lord, we know your word to be truth, but today we confess that at times our fallible minds find truth hard to define, and our mouths find the truth hard to speak. Forgive us for following paths which take us away from your loving intent for our lives. For the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us, that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your name. Amen.
The Lord says: “I, even I, am the God who blots out your transgressions for my own sake and will not remember your sins. Go and sin no more.”
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end, AMEN.
Then pray for those in need, pray for your own search for truth. When you have finished, please continue with the following prayers:
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, Your kingdom come, Your will be done, On earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever. Amen.
Loving God, open our eyes to see your truth,
So that we might walk on the path of righteousness.
Christ, the living truth, grant us wisdom,
To choose your will for our lives.
Spirit of truth, blow through us today,
And empower us to bring good news to those who need to hear it.
To the God of lasting wisdom, to the God of relentless change, to God be glory, majesty, dominion, and power,
Now and forever. Amen.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Prayers for the 6th Week in Easter
Watchword for the week:
Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises. Psalm 98:4
This is the day the Lord has made.
We will rejoice and be glad in it.
May we sing, shout, and give thanks to God.
For in Christ, God has brought the kingdom of God close to us.
Psalm 98
1 O sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things. His right hand and his holy arm have gotten him victory.
2 The Lord has made known his victory; he has revealed his vindication in the sight of the nations.
3 He has remembered his steadfast love and faithfulness to the house of Israel. All the ends of the earth have seen the victory of our God.
4 Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises.
5 Sing praises to the Lord with the lyre, with the lyre and the sound of melody.
6 With trumpets and the sound of the horn make a joyful noise before the King, the Lord. 7 Let the sea roar, and all that fills it; the world and those who live in it.
8 Let the floods clap their hands; let the hills sing together for joy
9 at the presence of the Lord, for he is coming to judge the earth. He will judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with equity.
Together, let us confess our sins:
Gracious Lord, forgive us when our mouths cease to joyously praise you. Forgive us for the times when we have used our months to speak ill of others instead of sharing our concern for them. Forgive us when our mouths have spoken harshly and hastily when anger has filled our souls. Forgive us for the times when the words coming from our mouths have spoken of envy, prejudice, and hate. Forgive us when our mouths have been silent instead of calling out injustice and abuse. Forgive us for our participation in a culture which seeks to use the earth for our own benefit rather than allowing it to show forth your glory. Forgive us Lord and bring us back to wholeness so that we may sing of your praise both night and day.
Grant to your faithful people pardon and peace, that we may be cleansed from our sins, and serve you with a quiet mind, through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end, AMEN.
Take time now to read the Daily Texts for Today, or another passage or two of scripture that will provide inspiration for your day.
Then take time to simply be quiet in God's presence. Breathe deep and know that you are loved. As the names and faces of loved ones come across your mind, pray for them. As issues and concerns that are plaguing our nation and world come to mind, pray for them. When you are finished continue with this prayer as follows:
In one voice, we pray together:
Creator of the heavens and earth, we praise your holy name. We pray that the gracious ways of heaven may be made real in the world that we inhabit. We hunger for much more than food today, and we pray that you will satisfy us, and all who have need. We are awed by your forgiving nature, and pray that you would inspire us to forgive each other in like manner. We know that you have created us to be holy, and ask that you keep us from the temptation of living a life which would tarnish your image within us. You have created a world that is holy, and your glory and power are displayed in many wonderful ways; we give thanks for the blessings of our lives even as we seek to live into the eternity of yours. Amen.
Loving God, may the words of our mouths speak love,
And may they bring others closer to your presence.
Loving God, may the words of our mouths speak grace,
And may they bring others closer to your presence.
Loving God, may the words of our mouths speak peace,
And may they bring others closer to your presence.
Loving God, may the words of our mouths and the meditations of our hearts be acceptable unto you,
Our rock and our redeemer.
Go forth from here and make a joyful noise to Lord.
Amen.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Prayers for the 5th Week of Easter
The Watchword for the week:
Jesus says, "Abide in me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me."John 15:4
This is the day the Lord has made.
We will rejoice and be glad in it.
We should praise the Lord at our rising, and at the setting of the sun.
May we share our faith and sing God’s praise through the living of each moment this day.
Psalm 22:25-31
25 From you comes my praise in the great congregation; my vows I will pay before those who fear him.
26 The poor shall eat and be satisfied; those who seek him shall praise the Lord. May your hearts live forever!
27 All the ends of the earth shall remember and turn to the Lord; and all the families of the nations shall worship before him.
28 For dominion belongs to the Lord, and he rules over the nations.
29 To him, indeed, shall all who sleep in the earth bow down;
Before him shall bow all who go down to the dust, and I shall live for him.
30 Posterity will serve him; future generations will be told about the Lord,
31 and proclaim his deliverance to a people yet unborn, saying that he has done it.
Let us confess our wandering steps:
Gracious God, we humbly bow before you and confess that we sometimes live our lives as if we did not know you. We deny our need for the life giving strength and guidance that your Holy Word can provide us. We are sorry to find that we often attempt to satisfy our need for treasures and pleasures in ways that will not bring us deep happiness and purpose in life; and in fact cause us to walk away from you. Guide us to once again seek to abide in your love, and to live your graceful presence into the lives of those around us.
Grant to your faithful people pardon and peace, that we may be cleansed from our sins, and serve you with a quiet mind, through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end, AMEN.
Take time now to read the Moravian Daily Texts for the day. After you have completed today's prayer, take time to pray for your needs, the needs of your family and friends, the needs of your congregation, and the needs of the hurting world. May we all be brought closer to Christ.
In one voice, we pray together:
Creator of the heavens and earth, we praise your holy name. We pray that the gracious ways of heaven may be made real in the world that we inhabit. We hunger for much more than food today, and we pray that you will satisfy us, and all who have need. We are awed by your forgiving nature, and pray that you would inspire us to forgive each other in like manner. We know that you have created us to be holy, and ask that you keep us from the temptation of living a life which would tarnish your image within us. You have created a world that is holy, and your glory and power are displayed in many wonderful ways; we give thanks for the blessings of our lives even as we seek to live into the eternity of yours. Amen.
The Festival Doxology:
Unto the Lamb that was slain,
And has redeemed us out of all nations of the earth;
Unto the Lord who purchased our souls for himself;
Unto that friend who loved us, and washed us from our sins by his own blood;
Who died for us once,
That we might die unto sin;
Who rose for us,
That we might also rise;
Who ascended for us into heaven,
To prepare a place for us;
And to whom are subjected the angels, and powers, and dominions; to him be glory at all times,
In the Church which waits for him, and in that church which is around him from everlasting to everlasting. Amen.
Jesus says, "Abide in me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me."John 15:4
This is the day the Lord has made.
We will rejoice and be glad in it.
We should praise the Lord at our rising, and at the setting of the sun.
May we share our faith and sing God’s praise through the living of each moment this day.
Psalm 22:25-31
25 From you comes my praise in the great congregation; my vows I will pay before those who fear him.
26 The poor shall eat and be satisfied; those who seek him shall praise the Lord. May your hearts live forever!
27 All the ends of the earth shall remember and turn to the Lord; and all the families of the nations shall worship before him.
28 For dominion belongs to the Lord, and he rules over the nations.
29 To him, indeed, shall all who sleep in the earth bow down;
Before him shall bow all who go down to the dust, and I shall live for him.
30 Posterity will serve him; future generations will be told about the Lord,
31 and proclaim his deliverance to a people yet unborn, saying that he has done it.
Let us confess our wandering steps:
Gracious God, we humbly bow before you and confess that we sometimes live our lives as if we did not know you. We deny our need for the life giving strength and guidance that your Holy Word can provide us. We are sorry to find that we often attempt to satisfy our need for treasures and pleasures in ways that will not bring us deep happiness and purpose in life; and in fact cause us to walk away from you. Guide us to once again seek to abide in your love, and to live your graceful presence into the lives of those around us.
Grant to your faithful people pardon and peace, that we may be cleansed from our sins, and serve you with a quiet mind, through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end, AMEN.
Take time now to read the Moravian Daily Texts for the day. After you have completed today's prayer, take time to pray for your needs, the needs of your family and friends, the needs of your congregation, and the needs of the hurting world. May we all be brought closer to Christ.
In one voice, we pray together:
Creator of the heavens and earth, we praise your holy name. We pray that the gracious ways of heaven may be made real in the world that we inhabit. We hunger for much more than food today, and we pray that you will satisfy us, and all who have need. We are awed by your forgiving nature, and pray that you would inspire us to forgive each other in like manner. We know that you have created us to be holy, and ask that you keep us from the temptation of living a life which would tarnish your image within us. You have created a world that is holy, and your glory and power are displayed in many wonderful ways; we give thanks for the blessings of our lives even as we seek to live into the eternity of yours. Amen.
The Festival Doxology:
Unto the Lamb that was slain,
And has redeemed us out of all nations of the earth;
Unto the Lord who purchased our souls for himself;
Unto that friend who loved us, and washed us from our sins by his own blood;
Who died for us once,
That we might die unto sin;
Who rose for us,
That we might also rise;
Who ascended for us into heaven,
To prepare a place for us;
And to whom are subjected the angels, and powers, and dominions; to him be glory at all times,
In the Church which waits for him, and in that church which is around him from everlasting to everlasting. Amen.
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