Prayer for January 29-February 4, 2017
Sermon Text: Matthew
5:1-12
That
we may receive your good news and generous gifts with gladness
Christ Jesus, when we hear your words of blessing, we find it very
difficult not to turn it into a string of commands about how we should be
living our lives. It is much easier for us to think in terms of obligation and
obedience than it is to receive good news and generous gifts. We want to feel
as though we have earned our way into your affection and your reign.
We know obedience is part of the life of discipleship, but, in this
moment, enable us to hear the gospel as your word of blessing, your promise of
renewal and restoration of the world of human relationships, your work of
creating a new community out of people, including us, who often seem to lack
qualifications to be your people and experience your blessing.
Enable us to receive your reign among us rather than grasping for
everything we can get our hands on. Comfort those who grieve among us. Make us
just and holy people. Let mercy and peace flow from pure hearts. Enable us to
see God’s presence in you and in your people as we await the day when we shall
see God face to face. Enable us to endure insult, rejection and abuse with
patient hope.
We rejoice in you! Our hearts are gladdened by your presence! Amen.
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