Prayer for May 15-21, 2011

Sermon Text: Acts 2:42-47

That we may commit ourselves to You as one

You who formed the church with Christ Jesus as its head, we too commit ourselves to the teaching of the apostles. Let their words of witness and instruction, through which we hear your word for us, root deeply in the soil of our minds, so that we are transformed and made fruitful in character, good works, and witness.

We too commit ourselves to the community that has been called together by Jesus and energized by your Spirit. Enable us to combine our diverse resources in order to provide for each other, nurture each other, and rouse each one to courageous acts of faith. Enable us to work together and witness as one to Jesus whom You have raised to life as Sovereign of all.

We too commit our lives to the breaking of bread, the communion in which our hearts are open to You and thereby opened to each other. Like the travelers to Emmaus on that first Easter, let us see Christ’s presence when we eat together. Enable us to affirm and live fully the unity for which You have created a sure foundation.

We too commit ourselves to pray together. Give us faith to pray boldly. Give us perseverance to pray when there seems to be no answer to our prayer. Let your Spirit guide our prayer so that it is aligned with your good will for us.

Wondrous God, may all of our commitments express our delight in your presence, and may many be drawn to You because they have seen You through our lives. Amen.