Sermon Text: Psalm 148
That praise will be our characteristic language
Exalted God, we exult in You and delight to join our voices to the cosmic chorus that praises You without end. We praise You as creatures of your making and as caretakers of this earth through which You provide for and nourish us.
We sing with joy of your splendor and of the beauty and order You have created. Your energy and ingenuity are beyond our imagining, but we express our gratitude as fully and artfully as we can.
We sing with passion. We welcome, with hearts aflame, the One You have given us as Savior, Teacher, Model, Friend and Sovereign.
Do not let our voices be stilled. Let praise of You be the language that characterizes our daily lives and our corporate worship. Let every aspect of our lives match the praise we offer. Amen.
Thoughts, and prayers from Pastor David Antieau at St. Nicolai United Church of Christ
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Prayer for December 19-25, 2010
Sermon Text: Matthew 1:18-25
That we will receive You in trust when trust is risky
God, our God, we rejoice that You have come among us in Jesus Christ. We rejoice that through Jesus we have forgiveness of sins and friendship with You. We rejoice that in the drama of salvation, women and men like Mary and Joseph were sensitive to your guidance and placed their lives at your disposal in spite of many risks.
Present One, give us such sensitivity to your guidance that however You speak to us—through dream or prophet, through song or scripture, we will receive your word, receive You, and place our lives in your care for the achievement of your purpose.
God, we praise You for your tenacious love. We praise You for the ingenuity with which You have drawn us to You by coming among us. We praise You that You are still among us and that You are our Source of life that is filled with peace and joy. Amen.
That we will receive You in trust when trust is risky
God, our God, we rejoice that You have come among us in Jesus Christ. We rejoice that through Jesus we have forgiveness of sins and friendship with You. We rejoice that in the drama of salvation, women and men like Mary and Joseph were sensitive to your guidance and placed their lives at your disposal in spite of many risks.
Present One, give us such sensitivity to your guidance that however You speak to us—through dream or prophet, through song or scripture, we will receive your word, receive You, and place our lives in your care for the achievement of your purpose.
God, we praise You for your tenacious love. We praise You for the ingenuity with which You have drawn us to You by coming among us. We praise You that You are still among us and that You are our Source of life that is filled with peace and joy. Amen.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Prayer for Christmas - December 25, 2010
Christ Candle Prayer
Reading: Matthew 1:18-25
O God, You have visited us in Jesus, your Chosen One. You have come close to us. You have looked us in the eye. You have spoken our names. You have offered forgiveness, healing, friendship, comfort, peace, joy and love as gifts of your presence, gifts of salvation.
We welcome Jesus in whom we see your perfect image and fullness. We welcome Jesus as Savior, Instructor, and Example. We welcome Jesus as our Light and Life.
Give us the mind of Christ. Fill us with the Spirit of Christ. Let the world see and know Christ Jesus through our living witness.
Reading: Matthew 1:18-25
O God, You have visited us in Jesus, your Chosen One. You have come close to us. You have looked us in the eye. You have spoken our names. You have offered forgiveness, healing, friendship, comfort, peace, joy and love as gifts of your presence, gifts of salvation.
We welcome Jesus in whom we see your perfect image and fullness. We welcome Jesus as Savior, Instructor, and Example. We welcome Jesus as our Light and Life.
Give us the mind of Christ. Fill us with the Spirit of Christ. Let the world see and know Christ Jesus through our living witness.
Prayer for Advent 4 - December 19, 2010
Advent Candle Prayer (PEACE)
Reading Isaiah 35:1-10
God of Peace, in our world of turmoil we look to you for peace. We look to the One You have promised as Prince of Peace,* and we trust that He will be your Agent to create peace in our world of conflict and hatred.
Let the promised and enduring peace of Jesus overcome our many anxieties.^ Fill us with your peace that passes understanding.# Enable us to learn the reconciling ways of Jesus so that we may bring your peace to relationships that are fractured by anger, competition, prejudice, greed and jealousy.+ Because of your promises, we await with hope the day when your unending peace will fill the earth.** Amen.
*Isaiah 9:6; ^John 14:27; #Philippians 4:7; + Matthew 5:9; **Isaiah 9:7
Reading Isaiah 35:1-10
God of Peace, in our world of turmoil we look to you for peace. We look to the One You have promised as Prince of Peace,* and we trust that He will be your Agent to create peace in our world of conflict and hatred.
Let the promised and enduring peace of Jesus overcome our many anxieties.^ Fill us with your peace that passes understanding.# Enable us to learn the reconciling ways of Jesus so that we may bring your peace to relationships that are fractured by anger, competition, prejudice, greed and jealousy.+ Because of your promises, we await with hope the day when your unending peace will fill the earth.** Amen.
*Isaiah 9:6; ^John 14:27; #Philippians 4:7; + Matthew 5:9; **Isaiah 9:7
Friday, December 10, 2010
Prayer for Advent 3 - December 12, 2010
Advent Candle Prayer (JOY)
Scripture readings: Isaiah 35:1-10, Psalm 146, Luke 1:47-55
You who rejoice over your people with singing,* we sing and say our praise to You with great joy.
We rejoice because You have called us by name and made us your people. We rejoice because of your great acts of mercy and forgiveness on our behalf.
We rejoice because of the hope you give to those who are lowly, those who cry for justice, those who cry out for healing and freedom. We rejoice because You welcome and care for those who have been abandoned by their friends, families, and congregations.
God of joy, we rejoice that You are with us and that You are creating a realm in which joy will flow without limit. We will rejoice in You forever! Amen.
*See Zephaniah 3:17
Scripture readings: Isaiah 35:1-10, Psalm 146, Luke 1:47-55
You who rejoice over your people with singing,* we sing and say our praise to You with great joy.
We rejoice because You have called us by name and made us your people. We rejoice because of your great acts of mercy and forgiveness on our behalf.
We rejoice because of the hope you give to those who are lowly, those who cry for justice, those who cry out for healing and freedom. We rejoice because You welcome and care for those who have been abandoned by their friends, families, and congregations.
God of joy, we rejoice that You are with us and that You are creating a realm in which joy will flow without limit. We will rejoice in You forever! Amen.
*See Zephaniah 3:17
Prayer for December 12-18, 2010
Sermon Text: Luke 1:47-55
That our hands and hearts will be open to our many neighbors
Mighty God, many of us can make no claims of humility in our attitude or means. We are proud of our hard work and our skillful management of resources. We are proud of the lives we have shaped. We are proud to be good citizens of a wealthy and powerful nation.
Few of us are wealthy compared to our near neighbors, and it is easy to overlook our wealth when compared to distant neighbors we do not see. So we often fail to see ourselves for who we actually are.
In spite of all that we have, we are often fearful and anxious. We forget what You have done for us and fear loss and deprivation.
We are not eager for a reversal of fortunes on a broad scale because we fear that we may lose our privileged status in the world. We do not want parity or justice that will cost us too much.
God, in spite of our anxiousness, we want Jesus to be present in our lives even when Jesus judges our unfaithful pride and tries to reorient us to your will. Teach us to be confident in You, not in ourselves. Open our hands and our hearts to our many neighbors, even as we open our lives more fully to Jesus. Amen.
That our hands and hearts will be open to our many neighbors
Mighty God, many of us can make no claims of humility in our attitude or means. We are proud of our hard work and our skillful management of resources. We are proud of the lives we have shaped. We are proud to be good citizens of a wealthy and powerful nation.
Few of us are wealthy compared to our near neighbors, and it is easy to overlook our wealth when compared to distant neighbors we do not see. So we often fail to see ourselves for who we actually are.
In spite of all that we have, we are often fearful and anxious. We forget what You have done for us and fear loss and deprivation.
We are not eager for a reversal of fortunes on a broad scale because we fear that we may lose our privileged status in the world. We do not want parity or justice that will cost us too much.
God, in spite of our anxiousness, we want Jesus to be present in our lives even when Jesus judges our unfaithful pride and tries to reorient us to your will. Teach us to be confident in You, not in ourselves. Open our hands and our hearts to our many neighbors, even as we open our lives more fully to Jesus. Amen.
Friday, December 3, 2010
Prayer for December 5-11, 2010
Sermon Text: Isaiah 11:1-10
That we may be transformed into agents of justice
God of all, Jesus has come and his church has identified him as the stem from David who taught and ministered to others with wisdom and power from your Spirit. Through Jesus, You have rescued us from sin and death. Through Jesus, we have learned to respond to You with reverence and obedience.
But the justice we hope for tarries. Poor people often seem to lack an effective advocate who can enact the righteous decisions they await. Wickedness seems to spread as rapidly as weeds, entangling and limiting life that could be vital and free.
We believe You are capable of action that seems impossible to us. We believe You can create a world where predation and fear are obsolete. But that is not the world we live in at the moment. Viciousness thrives. Fear grows. Knowledge of You seems more like a collection of leaky vessels than like a great sea.
Draw nations to You. Transform the world. Transform us so that we may be agents of your justice. Amen.
That we may be transformed into agents of justice
God of all, Jesus has come and his church has identified him as the stem from David who taught and ministered to others with wisdom and power from your Spirit. Through Jesus, You have rescued us from sin and death. Through Jesus, we have learned to respond to You with reverence and obedience.
But the justice we hope for tarries. Poor people often seem to lack an effective advocate who can enact the righteous decisions they await. Wickedness seems to spread as rapidly as weeds, entangling and limiting life that could be vital and free.
We believe You are capable of action that seems impossible to us. We believe You can create a world where predation and fear are obsolete. But that is not the world we live in at the moment. Viciousness thrives. Fear grows. Knowledge of You seems more like a collection of leaky vessels than like a great sea.
Draw nations to You. Transform the world. Transform us so that we may be agents of your justice. Amen.
Prayer for Advent 2 - December 5, 2010
Advent Candle Prayer (LOVE)
Reading: Isaiah 11:1-10
Giver of visions, You who desire us more than we can expect or imagine, flood the world with knowledge of You.
Flood the world with knowledge of You that is expressed through intimacy with You: with a love that energizes and directs our entire being as a response to your own great love.
Enable us to live into the vision of peace that You have given through your prophets and that You will bring to fruition in your chosen time and through your Chosen One. Amen.
Reading: Isaiah 11:1-10
Giver of visions, You who desire us more than we can expect or imagine, flood the world with knowledge of You.
Flood the world with knowledge of You that is expressed through intimacy with You: with a love that energizes and directs our entire being as a response to your own great love.
Enable us to live into the vision of peace that You have given through your prophets and that You will bring to fruition in your chosen time and through your Chosen One. Amen.
Prayer for Advent 1 - November 28, 2010
Advent Candle Prayer (HOPE)
Reading: Isaiah 2:1-5
Holy and Glorious One, you give us hope for a future that we can barely imagine: an age when your presence and your word attract all the peoples of the world to worship You and learn from You and obey You; an age when international disputes are settled by your wise judgment; and an age when all training for war is abandoned and all implements of war are reshaped for life enhancing purposes.
We long to be part of such a future. Shape our lives for this future You are creating. We hope in You and You alone. Amen.
Reading: Isaiah 2:1-5
Holy and Glorious One, you give us hope for a future that we can barely imagine: an age when your presence and your word attract all the peoples of the world to worship You and learn from You and obey You; an age when international disputes are settled by your wise judgment; and an age when all training for war is abandoned and all implements of war are reshaped for life enhancing purposes.
We long to be part of such a future. Shape our lives for this future You are creating. We hope in You and You alone. Amen.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Prayer for November 28-December 4, 2010
Sermon Text: Matthew 24:36-44
That we will be alert for Christ’s coming
God of mystery, we believe Christ’s promise that he will come again to bring the consummation of your reign among us.
Some among us invest great time and energy in trying to uncover signs and pinpoint dates that Jesus declared to be beyond even his knowledge. Others among us continue to eat and drink, work and play and build families as though these things are all there is, and as though Christ will not return at any time in the foreseeable future.
Teach us to be alert for your presence each day. Let our character take on more and more of the quality of Christ’s character, as your Spirit moves within us and among us. Enable us to work, as faithful servants, to prepare for Christ’s coming.
Do not let us presume that we can figure out the timing of Christ’s return, but let our hearts always be open and alert so we may anticipate with joy that glorious day. Amen.
That we will be alert for Christ’s coming
God of mystery, we believe Christ’s promise that he will come again to bring the consummation of your reign among us.
Some among us invest great time and energy in trying to uncover signs and pinpoint dates that Jesus declared to be beyond even his knowledge. Others among us continue to eat and drink, work and play and build families as though these things are all there is, and as though Christ will not return at any time in the foreseeable future.
Teach us to be alert for your presence each day. Let our character take on more and more of the quality of Christ’s character, as your Spirit moves within us and among us. Enable us to work, as faithful servants, to prepare for Christ’s coming.
Do not let us presume that we can figure out the timing of Christ’s return, but let our hearts always be open and alert so we may anticipate with joy that glorious day. Amen.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Prayer for November 21-27, 2010
Sermon Text: Colossians 1:9-20
That our lives will be fully aligned with your will
God of Christ Jesus and our God, as we study scripture and submit to the guidance of your Spirit, we ask that you will give us clear knowledge of your will and align our lives with your will. Enable us to live in ways that reflect your character and please You.
Fill us with your energy so we may accomplish your will and patiently endure when we become fatigued or encounter resistance.
We rejoice in You and give thanks that You have given us an inheritance among the children of your household. We praise You for rescuing us from the power of chaos and death and for forgiving our sins.
We praise You, Holy One, for Christ, who
bore your image among us,
created all things, including all powers, and
preceded and sustains everything
as life source of the church,
as first to be resurrected from death,
as full embodiment of your presence, and
as agent for the restoration of unity to all of creation. Amen.
That our lives will be fully aligned with your will
God of Christ Jesus and our God, as we study scripture and submit to the guidance of your Spirit, we ask that you will give us clear knowledge of your will and align our lives with your will. Enable us to live in ways that reflect your character and please You.
Fill us with your energy so we may accomplish your will and patiently endure when we become fatigued or encounter resistance.
We rejoice in You and give thanks that You have given us an inheritance among the children of your household. We praise You for rescuing us from the power of chaos and death and for forgiving our sins.
We praise You, Holy One, for Christ, who
bore your image among us,
created all things, including all powers, and
preceded and sustains everything
as life source of the church,
as first to be resurrected from death,
as full embodiment of your presence, and
as agent for the restoration of unity to all of creation. Amen.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Prayer for November 14-20, 2010
Sermon Text: Isaiah 65:17-25
That we may be a sign of your creative action
God of wonders, we know that You are able to do all things. You are able to act beyond our expectations and in ways that exceed the inspired imaginations of your prophets.
We believe that You will create new heavens and a new earth that will eclipse the best of our memories. We believe You have begun your work of new creation in Jesus and that You will bring it to fulfillment in Jesus.
We believe that You have called the church to be a sign of your creative action in a world that tilts toward death and practices violence.
We confess that violence easily infiltrates our own hearts, and acknowledge that our promiscuous desires energize violent action on our behalf.
Forgive us. Transform us. Energize us to act as agents of your healing, your blessing, your joy, your peace, and your presence.
We long to participate in a world that blossoms with joy and delight; with long lives lived in peaceful community with neighbors near and far; without fear; and in shared celebration of your nearness and your responsiveness to the world You love.
God of all, fulfill this vision You inspired. Amen.
That we may be a sign of your creative action
God of wonders, we know that You are able to do all things. You are able to act beyond our expectations and in ways that exceed the inspired imaginations of your prophets.
We believe that You will create new heavens and a new earth that will eclipse the best of our memories. We believe You have begun your work of new creation in Jesus and that You will bring it to fulfillment in Jesus.
We believe that You have called the church to be a sign of your creative action in a world that tilts toward death and practices violence.
We confess that violence easily infiltrates our own hearts, and acknowledge that our promiscuous desires energize violent action on our behalf.
Forgive us. Transform us. Energize us to act as agents of your healing, your blessing, your joy, your peace, and your presence.
We long to participate in a world that blossoms with joy and delight; with long lives lived in peaceful community with neighbors near and far; without fear; and in shared celebration of your nearness and your responsiveness to the world You love.
God of all, fulfill this vision You inspired. Amen.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Prayer for November 7-13, 2010
Sermon Text: 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17
That we may live the life of eternity now
You who hold the times and seasons of our lives in your watchful care, help us to live the life of your eternal realm right now, in the present moment.
We always live in your presence, but grant us greater awareness of your presence. Enable us to live our faith in You with alertness and diligence and joy. Give us wisdom and discernment so that we do not become anxious in difficult days, or when some use these troubled times to declare with certainty the imminence of Jesus’ return.
We want to follow Jesus with boldness. We want to be ever ready for his return. We want to rejoice always because You have loved us, saved us and sanctified us through the Spirit who has enabled us to grasp and believe the truth. We long to share fully in the glory of Christ Jesus, but we wait with patience for the fulfillment of your promise.
As your Spirit strengthens and encourages us in our wait for the consummation of your desire for all of creation, enable us to encourage others by pointing them to Jesus. Amen.
That we may live the life of eternity now
You who hold the times and seasons of our lives in your watchful care, help us to live the life of your eternal realm right now, in the present moment.
We always live in your presence, but grant us greater awareness of your presence. Enable us to live our faith in You with alertness and diligence and joy. Give us wisdom and discernment so that we do not become anxious in difficult days, or when some use these troubled times to declare with certainty the imminence of Jesus’ return.
We want to follow Jesus with boldness. We want to be ever ready for his return. We want to rejoice always because You have loved us, saved us and sanctified us through the Spirit who has enabled us to grasp and believe the truth. We long to share fully in the glory of Christ Jesus, but we wait with patience for the fulfillment of your promise.
As your Spirit strengthens and encourages us in our wait for the consummation of your desire for all of creation, enable us to encourage others by pointing them to Jesus. Amen.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Prayer for October 31 - November 6, 2010
Sermon Text: Luke 19:1-10
That we may be continuously renewed in your presence
Christ Jesus, in those times when we struggle to get a glimpse of You or draw near to You, You are alert to us. You notice us. You come near us. You speak to us. You know our character and our need. You offer what we are unable to create or obtain for ourselves.
You come to rescue, but You also come as guest and friend, even though we are unworthy of your presence and friendship.
In your presence, we become more aware of our sin and our need. In your presence, we are drawn to repentance and motivated to make restitution to those we have wronged. In your presence, hope opens before us because You are able to rescue us, transform us, and welcome us into the community of your faithful ones.
Christ, we rejoice in You! You have given us new life. You have given us yourself. Amen.
That we may be continuously renewed in your presence
Christ Jesus, in those times when we struggle to get a glimpse of You or draw near to You, You are alert to us. You notice us. You come near us. You speak to us. You know our character and our need. You offer what we are unable to create or obtain for ourselves.
You come to rescue, but You also come as guest and friend, even though we are unworthy of your presence and friendship.
In your presence, we become more aware of our sin and our need. In your presence, we are drawn to repentance and motivated to make restitution to those we have wronged. In your presence, hope opens before us because You are able to rescue us, transform us, and welcome us into the community of your faithful ones.
Christ, we rejoice in You! You have given us new life. You have given us yourself. Amen.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Prayer for October 24-30, 2010
Sermon Text: Luke 18:9-14
That we will seek your mercy in humility
God, we cry to You for mercy. Forgive us! Release us from the power that sin has held over our lives. Free us to live in obedience with hope. Unite our hearts with your own generous heart. We implore You because You are slow to anger and You abound in steadfast love and mercy.
Protect us from pride. Protect us from the delusion that we are better than our neighbors and less in need of your mercy. Forgive us for believing that we have achieved righteousness on our own and for looking at others to judge them, as though we were their creator or sovereign.
God, we know that we cannot justify ourselves before You, not now, or ever. So we pray with humility: claim us, again, as your own. We have no other hope. Amen.
That we will seek your mercy in humility
God, we cry to You for mercy. Forgive us! Release us from the power that sin has held over our lives. Free us to live in obedience with hope. Unite our hearts with your own generous heart. We implore You because You are slow to anger and You abound in steadfast love and mercy.
Protect us from pride. Protect us from the delusion that we are better than our neighbors and less in need of your mercy. Forgive us for believing that we have achieved righteousness on our own and for looking at others to judge them, as though we were their creator or sovereign.
God, we know that we cannot justify ourselves before You, not now, or ever. So we pray with humility: claim us, again, as your own. We have no other hope. Amen.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Prayer for October 17-23, 2010
Sermon Text: Luke 18:1-8
That we may be energized to pray for justice
Just and generous God, enable us to pray in bold and direct ways. Enable us to pray with persistence, especially when we pray for justice for those of your children who have been steamrolled by power and greed.
You hear the cries of those whose homes have been confiscated, the homeless, exiles and immigrants who are trying to rebuild their lives, prisoners incarcerated for petty crimes, and others who have been denied basic needs and freedoms that most of us value. You hear all who cry because they have been cast aside, or ignored, by our systems of status and worth.
You know, too, the pain of those without voice who have been unable to get a good education, or a good job, or good health care. Even their hopeless silence is audible to your sensitive heart.
God, give us ears to hear their cries. And give us voice to cry out with them as companions and advocates. Energize us so that we do not cease praying for justice when we become weary or change seems slow.
We believe that You are just. We believe You will bring justice for the oppressed. Align our lives with your just purpose. Energize us to work for the justice for which we pray. Amen.
That we may be energized to pray for justice
Just and generous God, enable us to pray in bold and direct ways. Enable us to pray with persistence, especially when we pray for justice for those of your children who have been steamrolled by power and greed.
You hear the cries of those whose homes have been confiscated, the homeless, exiles and immigrants who are trying to rebuild their lives, prisoners incarcerated for petty crimes, and others who have been denied basic needs and freedoms that most of us value. You hear all who cry because they have been cast aside, or ignored, by our systems of status and worth.
You know, too, the pain of those without voice who have been unable to get a good education, or a good job, or good health care. Even their hopeless silence is audible to your sensitive heart.
God, give us ears to hear their cries. And give us voice to cry out with them as companions and advocates. Energize us so that we do not cease praying for justice when we become weary or change seems slow.
We believe that You are just. We believe You will bring justice for the oppressed. Align our lives with your just purpose. Energize us to work for the justice for which we pray. Amen.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Prayer for October 10-16, 2010
Sermon text: Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7
That our lives may bring your blessing to others
God Almighty, You shape our lives in ways that we cannot see clearly or comprehend fully. Even when it seems that our lives are under your judgment and You have abandoned us, You send your word that challenges us and calls us to trust.
When we would withdraw from life and limit our contacts to those who share our experience and conviction, You call us to live with courage and to enter fully into building and planting a vital community. You call us not to consider only ourselves, but to live in ways that bring blessing and enrichment to others, even our enemies. You call us to hopeful action even when much of the evidence of our lives points toward despair.
Faithful One, enable us to act with courage and trust in every circumstance. Let us open our hands to receive what You would give us in our times of trial. Let us open our hands, also, to bless those we live among, be they friend, stranger, or enemy. Amen.
That our lives may bring your blessing to others
God Almighty, You shape our lives in ways that we cannot see clearly or comprehend fully. Even when it seems that our lives are under your judgment and You have abandoned us, You send your word that challenges us and calls us to trust.
When we would withdraw from life and limit our contacts to those who share our experience and conviction, You call us to live with courage and to enter fully into building and planting a vital community. You call us not to consider only ourselves, but to live in ways that bring blessing and enrichment to others, even our enemies. You call us to hopeful action even when much of the evidence of our lives points toward despair.
Faithful One, enable us to act with courage and trust in every circumstance. Let us open our hands to receive what You would give us in our times of trial. Let us open our hands, also, to bless those we live among, be they friend, stranger, or enemy. Amen.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Prayer for October 3 - October 9, 2010
Sermon text: Psalm 137
That we will express our grief with honesty
God, our source of song, few if any of us here, today, have seen our whole life collapse around us in national defeat and exile. We have not experienced that tragedy and pray that we may never experience it.
We have been deeply hurt, though, by enemies and friends. And we have thought the unthinkable in our desire to return hurt for hurt. We have imagined deprivation, pain, suffering and annihilation, and wished that they would come quickly from your hand.
We find no lasting satisfaction, no peace in such imaginings, though, at times, they are our truest thoughts.
Somehow, in this grief, our memories are awakened to your Spirit. Then we remember Jesus, hanging in agony from the cross, pleading, “Father, forgive them, they don’t know what they are doing.”
We also remember that Jesus cried out in abandonment. And we ask that You listen, and hear our grief, and help us speak it truly, and stay close to give comfort. Amen.
That we will express our grief with honesty
God, our source of song, few if any of us here, today, have seen our whole life collapse around us in national defeat and exile. We have not experienced that tragedy and pray that we may never experience it.
We have been deeply hurt, though, by enemies and friends. And we have thought the unthinkable in our desire to return hurt for hurt. We have imagined deprivation, pain, suffering and annihilation, and wished that they would come quickly from your hand.
We find no lasting satisfaction, no peace in such imaginings, though, at times, they are our truest thoughts.
Somehow, in this grief, our memories are awakened to your Spirit. Then we remember Jesus, hanging in agony from the cross, pleading, “Father, forgive them, they don’t know what they are doing.”
We also remember that Jesus cried out in abandonment. And we ask that You listen, and hear our grief, and help us speak it truly, and stay close to give comfort. Amen.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Prayer for September 26-October 2, 2010
Preaching text: Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15
That we may grasp the truth your prophets declare
Mysterious One, sometimes You ask of your people that which seems contrary to all wisdom, common sense, or even sanity. You speak, and those most sensitive to your voice act in ways that puzzle us, but that also point beyond apparent facts to deeper realities that are part of your intention for your people.
Where defeat looms,You declare victory. Where death threatens, You promise life. Where violence runs amok, You announce peace. Where hope has dissolved, You speak a new future.
We may be no more likely to listen to your prophets than your people in other eras have been. Send them to us anyway. Send them with bold speech that tears down dead structures and offers new creation. Enable us to grasp the truth we hear and to respond with courage as covenant partners in the new thing you initiate among us for our liberation, creation’s healing, and your own glory. Amen.
That we may grasp the truth your prophets declare
Mysterious One, sometimes You ask of your people that which seems contrary to all wisdom, common sense, or even sanity. You speak, and those most sensitive to your voice act in ways that puzzle us, but that also point beyond apparent facts to deeper realities that are part of your intention for your people.
Where defeat looms,You declare victory. Where death threatens, You promise life. Where violence runs amok, You announce peace. Where hope has dissolved, You speak a new future.
We may be no more likely to listen to your prophets than your people in other eras have been. Send them to us anyway. Send them with bold speech that tears down dead structures and offers new creation. Enable us to grasp the truth we hear and to respond with courage as covenant partners in the new thing you initiate among us for our liberation, creation’s healing, and your own glory. Amen.
Prayer for September 19-25, 2010
Preaching text: 1 Timothy 2:1-7
That praying for peace will shape us to contribute to peace
Listening God, enable us to be faithful and frequent in our prayer, especially for those in authority whom we are more likely to criticize and dislike than to pray for. As we pray, shape our lives so that we may be good neighbors who foster peace by reflecting your character.
Let your desire that all people be liberated from sin and deceit motivate our responses to our many neighbors. We want to be agents of your healing, your forgiveness, your rescue, your peace.
We want to walk with Christ and share the mind of Christ, who was willing to set aside all that he could claim in order to touch people with your liberating kindness and fill people with your empowering Spirit.
In your mercy, let our lives contribute to your creation of a world that is healed and at peace. Amen.
That praying for peace will shape us to contribute to peace
Listening God, enable us to be faithful and frequent in our prayer, especially for those in authority whom we are more likely to criticize and dislike than to pray for. As we pray, shape our lives so that we may be good neighbors who foster peace by reflecting your character.
Let your desire that all people be liberated from sin and deceit motivate our responses to our many neighbors. We want to be agents of your healing, your forgiveness, your rescue, your peace.
We want to walk with Christ and share the mind of Christ, who was willing to set aside all that he could claim in order to touch people with your liberating kindness and fill people with your empowering Spirit.
In your mercy, let our lives contribute to your creation of a world that is healed and at peace. Amen.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Prayer for September 12-18, 2010
Preaching text: 1 Timothy 1:12-17
That memories of your goodness will give us boldness to give ourselves to You
Merciful One when we look back on our lives, it is often easy to see many ways that we resisted and opposed You and acted in ignorance or rebellion. In our stubbornness, we refused You and went our own way, often hurting others in the process. How our hearts would ache if we could remember only this!
But we also remember that You have flooded our lives with grace, faith and love. You have drawn us to You. You have freed us from deadly habits and destructive opposition to your word. You have acted with unexpected patience toward us. And You have called and enabled us to minister to many other people out of your own great love.
We praise You! We rejoice in You! We offer ourselves as fully as we can, hoping that our lives will declare your honor and glory without ceasing. Amen.
That memories of your goodness will give us boldness to give ourselves to You
Merciful One when we look back on our lives, it is often easy to see many ways that we resisted and opposed You and acted in ignorance or rebellion. In our stubbornness, we refused You and went our own way, often hurting others in the process. How our hearts would ache if we could remember only this!
But we also remember that You have flooded our lives with grace, faith and love. You have drawn us to You. You have freed us from deadly habits and destructive opposition to your word. You have acted with unexpected patience toward us. And You have called and enabled us to minister to many other people out of your own great love.
We praise You! We rejoice in You! We offer ourselves as fully as we can, hoping that our lives will declare your honor and glory without ceasing. Amen.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Prayer for September 5-11, 2010
Preaching text: Philemon 1-21
That we may live our identity as your liberated people
Liberating and transforming God, we worship You with joy because of your history of bringing change to both people and circumstances. You have freed us from sin and You have transformed our lives, little by little, so that they reflect your glory, in some measure, to the world around us.
Sometimes our lives seem trapped in destructive patterns of behavior and old identities that do not represent the work You have done in us. Sometimes we are fearful and unsure about how to live fully into our identity as your rescued and empowered people. Sometimes other people, including people of faith, seem like obstacles to our experience of freedom and our call to serve You with all that we are.
Unify us. Help us to be advocates for our sisters and brothers who live in bondage of any kind. Help us to speak a word of loving challenge to any who might insist on clinging to personal advantages that keep others in bondage and that undermine filial relationships in the church of Jesus Christ. Give us discernment for the moments when such speech is necessary.
We rejoice in You in the name of Jesus who is our Advocate and Liberator. Amen.
That we may live our identity as your liberated people
Liberating and transforming God, we worship You with joy because of your history of bringing change to both people and circumstances. You have freed us from sin and You have transformed our lives, little by little, so that they reflect your glory, in some measure, to the world around us.
Sometimes our lives seem trapped in destructive patterns of behavior and old identities that do not represent the work You have done in us. Sometimes we are fearful and unsure about how to live fully into our identity as your rescued and empowered people. Sometimes other people, including people of faith, seem like obstacles to our experience of freedom and our call to serve You with all that we are.
Unify us. Help us to be advocates for our sisters and brothers who live in bondage of any kind. Help us to speak a word of loving challenge to any who might insist on clinging to personal advantages that keep others in bondage and that undermine filial relationships in the church of Jesus Christ. Give us discernment for the moments when such speech is necessary.
We rejoice in You in the name of Jesus who is our Advocate and Liberator. Amen.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Prayer for August 29-September 4, 2010
Preaching text: Luke 14:1, 7-14
That we may practice humility and generosity
Patient Teacher, help us learn humility that abandons all competition for recognition and honor. Enable us to defer to others without bitterness and to accept whatever recognition and honor we may receive as your generous gifts. Help us set aside our suspicion of one another in order to work as agents of your healing.
Stop us when we offer hospitality and act with generosity only when we are likely to receive something in return. Help us to see those who need our friendship and need us to share our resources. Then enable us to be as profuse in our welcome and gift giving as You have been with us.
May others see You and know you because they have seen your welcoming face through us. Amen.
That we may practice humility and generosity
Patient Teacher, help us learn humility that abandons all competition for recognition and honor. Enable us to defer to others without bitterness and to accept whatever recognition and honor we may receive as your generous gifts. Help us set aside our suspicion of one another in order to work as agents of your healing.
Stop us when we offer hospitality and act with generosity only when we are likely to receive something in return. Help us to see those who need our friendship and need us to share our resources. Then enable us to be as profuse in our welcome and gift giving as You have been with us.
May others see You and know you because they have seen your welcoming face through us. Amen.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Prayer for August 22-28, 2010
Preaching Text: Luke 13:10-17
That we may always celebrate your saving acts
Liberating One, You bring great hope and healing to many lives. Your actions are cause for rejoicing.
But sometimes our hearts are hard, and instead of rejoicing in You, we question the validity of other people’s experience with You, doubt or deny your presence with them, and respond in disappointment to the healing, new life, and freedom that You have given.
Forgive us when our hearts are so cold that we would rather see people remain in bondage than have our own expectations challenged. Forgive us when we assume or wish that You are cold or compassionless. Forgive us when we choose to sit by in apathy when we could join You in liberating action.
Free us for celebration of your generous action. Free us for exuberant praise. Free us to work for the healing and liberation of others. Free us to embrace and rejoice with those who have been changed by your healing power. Amen.
That we may always celebrate your saving acts
Liberating One, You bring great hope and healing to many lives. Your actions are cause for rejoicing.
But sometimes our hearts are hard, and instead of rejoicing in You, we question the validity of other people’s experience with You, doubt or deny your presence with them, and respond in disappointment to the healing, new life, and freedom that You have given.
Forgive us when our hearts are so cold that we would rather see people remain in bondage than have our own expectations challenged. Forgive us when we assume or wish that You are cold or compassionless. Forgive us when we choose to sit by in apathy when we could join You in liberating action.
Free us for celebration of your generous action. Free us for exuberant praise. Free us to work for the healing and liberation of others. Free us to embrace and rejoice with those who have been changed by your healing power. Amen.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Prayer for August 15-21, 2010
Sermon Text: Psalm 80
That we may be restored in obedience and vitality
Good Shepherd, so often we wander along, taking your presence for granted even as we ignore your voice that warns us of danger. We walk into pitfall and entanglement as though there were no choice. Then, when we are unable to extricate ourselves, when our vitality is sapped and our best efforts are inadequate for escape and return, we call to You.
We remember, in our trouble, that You are our only hope. We remember that your presence and favor are our salvation. So we call and we call and we call. Unless You answer us in our trouble, we are at an end.
Vigilant Shepherd, You are able to save us. You are able to lead us in obedience and restore us to vitality. We turn to You and call to You in hope. Amen.
That we may be restored in obedience and vitality
Good Shepherd, so often we wander along, taking your presence for granted even as we ignore your voice that warns us of danger. We walk into pitfall and entanglement as though there were no choice. Then, when we are unable to extricate ourselves, when our vitality is sapped and our best efforts are inadequate for escape and return, we call to You.
We remember, in our trouble, that You are our only hope. We remember that your presence and favor are our salvation. So we call and we call and we call. Unless You answer us in our trouble, we are at an end.
Vigilant Shepherd, You are able to save us. You are able to lead us in obedience and restore us to vitality. We turn to You and call to You in hope. Amen.
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Prayer for August 8-14, 2010
Preaching text: Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16
That we will trust You in assurance of your faithfulness
Faithful One, enable us to live our faith boldly, sure of your trustworthiness and of your presence with us. We do not know all of the contours of the new reality that You are creating, but we believe that You have invited us to live in that reality, as your people, and we believe that reality will reflect your character as God of peace and justice.
Align our wills for obedience to your commands that sometimes seem strange to us. Give us courage to walk with You to unfamiliar places. Give us faith to trust You when your promises seem improbable, even impossible.
We believe that You are able to do much with little. We believe that all things are possible for You. So, we ask You to take our lives and shape us as agents of your holy will.
Lead us into the new creation that You began, and will complete in Jesus Christ. Amen.
That we will trust You in assurance of your faithfulness
Faithful One, enable us to live our faith boldly, sure of your trustworthiness and of your presence with us. We do not know all of the contours of the new reality that You are creating, but we believe that You have invited us to live in that reality, as your people, and we believe that reality will reflect your character as God of peace and justice.
Align our wills for obedience to your commands that sometimes seem strange to us. Give us courage to walk with You to unfamiliar places. Give us faith to trust You when your promises seem improbable, even impossible.
We believe that You are able to do much with little. We believe that all things are possible for You. So, we ask You to take our lives and shape us as agents of your holy will.
Lead us into the new creation that You began, and will complete in Jesus Christ. Amen.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Prayer for August 1-7, 2010
Preaching Text: Luke 12:13-21
That we will be freed from greed
Generous God how easily we forget You and forget our neighbors when you bring abundance into our lives. As we prosper, we think more and more about our own pleasures and our own leisure. As we prosper, we become less satisfied with your many gifts and anxious to obtain more. We do not see the subtle ways that greed has grown in our hearts and become our master.
We identify more and more with what we possess, and fail to see how that impoverishes our relationship with You and blinds us to the presence and needs of our neighbors.
Forgive us Gracious One. Break the chains of greed that lure us away from You and isolate us from our neighbors. Enable us to live in thankful and generous gratitude. Amen.
That we will be freed from greed
Generous God how easily we forget You and forget our neighbors when you bring abundance into our lives. As we prosper, we think more and more about our own pleasures and our own leisure. As we prosper, we become less satisfied with your many gifts and anxious to obtain more. We do not see the subtle ways that greed has grown in our hearts and become our master.
We identify more and more with what we possess, and fail to see how that impoverishes our relationship with You and blinds us to the presence and needs of our neighbors.
Forgive us Gracious One. Break the chains of greed that lure us away from You and isolate us from our neighbors. Enable us to live in thankful and generous gratitude. Amen.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Prayer for July 25-31, 2010
Preaching Text (Luke 11:1-13)
That prayer will shape our lives
Christ, your Spirit has taught us to pray and has been present with us as we prayed, but we are slow to learn to match our lives to the words we pray. Let the words we pray breathe through every moment of our lives.
We pray that God’s name will be honored even as we use God’s name as though it were a magical formula for our success or a stamp of approval for our choices. Let prayer shape us for complete devotion that honors you.
We pray for daily provision even as we fret about the adequacy of our large supplies of food and material goods. Let prayer free us from anxiety to trust in You.
We pray for forgiveness even as we cling to many memories about wrongs that have been done to us. Though we have excluded some who offended us, from our lives, we assume that You will embrace us and hold us close. Let prayer soften our hearts to forgive others as You forgive.
We pray that You will not lead us into temptation, even while we glance this way and that at the instant pleasures the world offers, and as we linger in reveries of desire. Let prayer unify every aspect of our lives as a grateful response to your freely given gifts. Amen.
That prayer will shape our lives
Christ, your Spirit has taught us to pray and has been present with us as we prayed, but we are slow to learn to match our lives to the words we pray. Let the words we pray breathe through every moment of our lives.
We pray that God’s name will be honored even as we use God’s name as though it were a magical formula for our success or a stamp of approval for our choices. Let prayer shape us for complete devotion that honors you.
We pray for daily provision even as we fret about the adequacy of our large supplies of food and material goods. Let prayer free us from anxiety to trust in You.
We pray for forgiveness even as we cling to many memories about wrongs that have been done to us. Though we have excluded some who offended us, from our lives, we assume that You will embrace us and hold us close. Let prayer soften our hearts to forgive others as You forgive.
We pray that You will not lead us into temptation, even while we glance this way and that at the instant pleasures the world offers, and as we linger in reveries of desire. Let prayer unify every aspect of our lives as a grateful response to your freely given gifts. Amen.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Prayer for July 18-24, 2010
Preaching text: (Luke 10:38-42)
That we may discern the time to listen and the time to labor
God of all, we want every aspect of our lives to be ordered around our devotion to You. We want to honor You in everything.
Amid the complexity of our lives, give us discernment of those moments when listening, learning, waiting, focused prayer and rest are needed. Guide us, also, in those moments when vigorous and coordinated action are required to answer your call.
Forgive us when we use learning and prayer as an excuse to avoid good works, and when we use good works as an excuse to avoid learning and prayer. Help us shape every aspect of our lives as grateful worship. Amen.
That we may discern the time to listen and the time to labor
God of all, we want every aspect of our lives to be ordered around our devotion to You. We want to honor You in everything.
Amid the complexity of our lives, give us discernment of those moments when listening, learning, waiting, focused prayer and rest are needed. Guide us, also, in those moments when vigorous and coordinated action are required to answer your call.
Forgive us when we use learning and prayer as an excuse to avoid good works, and when we use good works as an excuse to avoid learning and prayer. Help us shape every aspect of our lives as grateful worship. Amen.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Prayer for July 11-17, 2010
Sermon text: Luke 10:25-31
That we may be true neighbors
God of mercy and compassion, deepen our love for You and for our many neighbors. Help us to see and respond to those who are hurting, even if there are risks and costs to our response. We want to be neighbors to those who might otherwise have no neighbor to come to them and help them in their hour of need.
Forgive us when we try to use our devotion to You as a justification for walking past our injured neighbors. Forgive us for claiming to love You even as we define other people as beyond the scope of our love, and beyond yours as well.
Soften our hearts. Give us sensitivity to those around us, especially those who cannot even cry for help. Give us a generous spirit. Enable us to act in obedience and do that to which You have called us and for which You have prepared us by your own love. Amen.
That we may be true neighbors
God of mercy and compassion, deepen our love for You and for our many neighbors. Help us to see and respond to those who are hurting, even if there are risks and costs to our response. We want to be neighbors to those who might otherwise have no neighbor to come to them and help them in their hour of need.
Forgive us when we try to use our devotion to You as a justification for walking past our injured neighbors. Forgive us for claiming to love You even as we define other people as beyond the scope of our love, and beyond yours as well.
Soften our hearts. Give us sensitivity to those around us, especially those who cannot even cry for help. Give us a generous spirit. Enable us to act in obedience and do that to which You have called us and for which You have prepared us by your own love. Amen.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Prayer for July 4-11, 2010
Sermon Text: 2 Kings 5:1-14
That we may welcome your prophets
We do not care for prophets much, Knowing One, but You send them anyway.
They come with words of warning that undermine our self-confidence and complacency. They call us to repentance when we believe we are without guilt. They challenge our fears and show us the insignificance of the threats that cause us to tremble. They offer comfort and generate hope when circumstances suggest that hostile powers control our lives. They declare bold promises that challenge us to trust You fully. They speak in imaginative ways about the new world of peace and hospitality and righteousness that You are creating by your own design and initiative.
You are are nearer than we imagine. Give us ears to hear your word when you send your prophets among us. Give us wisdom to respond with repentance and courageous faith. Amen.
That we may welcome your prophets
We do not care for prophets much, Knowing One, but You send them anyway.
They come with words of warning that undermine our self-confidence and complacency. They call us to repentance when we believe we are without guilt. They challenge our fears and show us the insignificance of the threats that cause us to tremble. They offer comfort and generate hope when circumstances suggest that hostile powers control our lives. They declare bold promises that challenge us to trust You fully. They speak in imaginative ways about the new world of peace and hospitality and righteousness that You are creating by your own design and initiative.
You are are nearer than we imagine. Give us ears to hear your word when you send your prophets among us. Give us wisdom to respond with repentance and courageous faith. Amen.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Prayer for June 27-July 3, 2010
I write a prayer for each week based on the preaching texts suggested by the United Church of Christ. These prayers are focused on deepening the faith of the congregation and are read, in unison, during Sunday worship or Tuesday prayer. They are also included in our bi-monthly newsletter.
Sermon text: 2 Kings 2:1-14
That we will seek your fullness with urgency
God of glory, we listen to the stories of your faithful ones with wonder and delight.
We affirm, in our worship, that You are able to do all things. But how seldom we
strain to receive the fullness of grace that You would make available to us.
We are often careless, lazy, and inattentive to your movement among us. We are
easily turned aside by obstacles that block our path.
Give us the tenacity of Elisha, who sought your blessing and empowerment even
when wise people tried to divert him. Enable us to draw on your grace to remain
alert, to press forward when the journey is long and hard, and to witness your
wondrous action on behalf of your people.
Enable us to receive the fullness of your Spirit, which You offer so freely. Then
help us to complete the tasks You give us with energy and wisdom. Amen.
Sermon text: 2 Kings 2:1-14
That we will seek your fullness with urgency
God of glory, we listen to the stories of your faithful ones with wonder and delight.
We affirm, in our worship, that You are able to do all things. But how seldom we
strain to receive the fullness of grace that You would make available to us.
We are often careless, lazy, and inattentive to your movement among us. We are
easily turned aside by obstacles that block our path.
Give us the tenacity of Elisha, who sought your blessing and empowerment even
when wise people tried to divert him. Enable us to draw on your grace to remain
alert, to press forward when the journey is long and hard, and to witness your
wondrous action on behalf of your people.
Enable us to receive the fullness of your Spirit, which You offer so freely. Then
help us to complete the tasks You give us with energy and wisdom. Amen.
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