Go on your way. See, I am sending you out like lambs into the midst of wolves. Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and greet no one on the road. (Luke 10:3-4)

You do not sugarcoat! You do not water down! You are loud and clear -- the mission field you are sending us into is a real, complex, and hostile world. And you tell us to travel light and keep a laser-like focus on your mission - no frills, no trappings, no extra luggage! Grant us grace, Lord Jesus, that we may keep your purpose and will front and center and stay the course, no matter what. Amen.

After this the Lord appointed seventy others and sent them on ahead of him in pairs to every town and place where he himself intended to go. (Luke 10:1)

You call us to join you in your Kingdom work and send us out ahead of you, not alone, but in teams. May we receive your call with humility and gladness and go out to every town and place with the good news of your love. In the strength of your spirit, may we dream together, pray together, work together, and proclaim your forgiveness and healing for all to hear. Amen.

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Indeed, by faith our ancestors received approval. (Hebrews 11:1-2)

We are surrounded by troubles, O God. Our screens are saturated with scenes of disaster and despair, violence and destruction, with no relief in sight, no prospect of peace on the horizon. Yet, we believe that a different world is possible. Grant us grace, O God, that we may persevere in our faith and work together in pursuit of your peaceable reign. Amen. 

There is neither Jew nor Greek; there is neither slave nor free; nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Now if you belong to Christ, then indeed you are Abraham’s descendants, heirs according to the promise. (Galatians 3:28-29, Common English Bible) 

Rich or poor, women and men, young or old, strong or weak, Republicans or Democrats, black, white, brown or yellow – we are all one in Christ Jesus! We are all heirs according to your promise! In your power, help us break down the dividing walls and build bridges instead. By your Spirit, make us one with each other and one in ministry to all the world. Amen.

You are all God’s children through faith in Christ Jesus. All of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. (Galatians 3:26-27, Common English Bible)

We are all you children! Through faith in Christ Jesus, we are all baptized into one family – your family! As your chosen people, holy and dearly loved, may we clothe ourselves with Christ – with love and kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Amen. 

And not only that, but we also boast in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not disappoint us. (Romans 5:3-5a)

You promise to be with us amid our suffering. Build our character and increase our capacity to hope, O God. Through the storm, through the night, may we not be shaken but stand tall in the wide-open space of your grace and glory. With your love poured into our hearts, may we fully participate in your life of astonishing hope that never disappoint us. Amen. 

Therefore, since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ through whom we have obtained access to this grace in which we stand; and we boast in our hope of sharing the glory of God. (Romans 5:1-2)

You are our peace, Lord Jesus. With your body, you broke down the barrier of sin and hatred. On the cross, you brought us all together and created a new humanity - a fresh start for everyone! Through you and in one Spirit, may we shout your praise! Standing firm in your grace, may we boast in our hope of sharing in your glory! Amen.     

When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth; for he will not speak on his own, but will speak whatever he hears, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. (John 16:13)

Your Spirit, O Lord, is the Spirit of truth. On the mountaintop and at the crossroads you take your stand and cry out to all humankind. You speak wisdom and understanding; you speak love and peace; you speak hope and joy; you speak courage and compassion. May we heed your voice and live, truly live! Amen.  

When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars that you have established; what are human beings that you are mindful of them, mortals that you care for them? (Psalm 8:3-4)

How majestic is your handiwork throughout the universe, O God! We stand in awe and wonder of your creation. You are bigger, greater, and more wonderful than anything that we can fully wrap our minds around. Yet, you come to us in our small and ordinary lives - our daily labor, mundane relationships, and everyday struggles. Each day and each moment, may we be open to your presence and blessing and participate in your life of boundless joy. Amen. 

And no one puts new wine into old wineskins; otherwise the new wine will burst the skins and will be spilled, and the skins will be destroyed. But new wine must be put into fresh wineskins. (Luke 5: 37-38)

Fill us with new wine, O God. And give us new wineskins, too! Fill us with fresh vision of your reign; give us courage to work to make that vision a reality. However useful the old wineskins might have been, may we be able to let them go and begin anew. In the strength and power of your Spirit, may we move forward toward the bright and beautiful future you have in store for us. Amen. 

O Lord, how manifold are your works! In wisdom you have made them all; the earth is full of your creatures. When you send forth your spirit, they are created; and you renew the face of the ground. (Psalm 104: 24 & 30)

What a wildly wonderful world you have created, O God! The whole earth is full of your glory! In wisdom you sent forth your spirit and breathed your life into all living creatures. Pour out your Spirit on us and give us new life, O God! Let loose your breath again and renew the face of the ground! Amen. 

Amazed and astonished, they asked, “Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? And how is it that we hear, each of us, in our own native language? All were amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, “What does this mean?” (Acts 2: 7-8, 12)

We often feel that we cannot understand each other. Sometimes it seems like we are speaking different languages! May the opposite be true! Whatever language we speak, may we be one in your marvelous design that unites us in one family. May we dream together, pray together, and work together in the strength and unity of the Spirit. Amen.

When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. (Acts 2:1-2)

Come, Holy Spirit, come! Come like a fierce wind and awaken us! Come, Holy Spirit, Come! Come like a gentle breeze and enliven us! Come in your strength and power; come in your wisdom and knowledge! Come, Holy Spirit, come! Descend upon us on this day and renew and refresh us! Amen. 

The jailer got a torch and ran inside. Badly shaken, he collapsed in front of Paul and Silas. He led them out of the jail and asked, “Sirs, what do I have to do to be saved, to really live?” They said, “Put your entire trust in the Master Jesus. Then you’ll live as you were meant to live—and everyone in your house included!” (Acts 16:29-31, The Message)

May we put our entire trust in you, Lord Jesus, and live, really live! May we believe in you and live as we were meant to live, ourselves and everyone in our house included! May we be one with you and live our lives in your presence and power, here and now to eternity! Amen.    

About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was an earthquake, so violent that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were unfastened. (Acts 16:25-26)

May we pray and sing like Paul and Silas in prison. May we hold on to the very foundation and source of who we are and what we are about as people of faith, that we may be freed from the shackles of this world and the prison cells of our own making. In your presence and power that can heal us, free us, and save us, may we recover the vision and energy you have for your people and the world. Amen.

This annoyed Paul so much that he finally turned and said to the spirit, “In the name of Jesus Christ, I command you to leave her!” It left her at that very moment. (Act 16:18, Common English Bible) 

There are so many things that trouble us in this world - senseless tragedies and suffering. But more often than not we remain resigned and silent, thinking there isn’t much we can do. May we trust you enough to do something about it. Grant us courage and strength, O God, that in your name and power, we may cry out and command the unclean spirits to be gone! Amen.

I will dwell on your mighty acts, my Lord. Lord, I will help others remember nothing but your righteous deeds. (Psalm 71:16, Common English Bible) 

No matter what comes our way, may we dwell on your mighty acts and remember your righteous deeds. When the going gets tough and that fear and doubt creep in, may we remind ourselves and each other of the truth – the truth of your goodness and mercy, justice and peace. Amen.  

By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things. (Galatians 5:22-23)

Your Spirit, O Lord, is the breath that bids life. Your Spirit is the love that binds up the brokenhearted. Your Spirit is the power that heals the nation’s wounds and holds all humanity in one embrace. Fill us with your Spirit, O Lord, and send us out, that we may bear fruit, lasting fruit, in your name. Amen. 

Don’t grieve God. Don’t break his heart. His Holy Spirit, moving and breathing in you, is the most intimate part of your life, making you fit for himself. Don’t take such a gift for granted. (Ephesians 4:30, The Message)

Where your Spirit is, there is peace. Where your Spirit is, there is love. There is comfort in life’s darkest hour. There is light and life, help and power. Come and hold us together in your hands, O Lord. Come and lift us up on your soaring wing, that we may live a life of deep and lasting peace in you, with you, and for you. Amen.

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid. (John 14:27)

We think that when things go our way, we will have peace. We think that when we are free of troubles, we will have peace. Yet, you say your peace is different. Your peace does not mean merely absence of conflict and tension, stress and worry. May we accept your presence, purpose, and power in our lives and let you order things in your way with your timing. May we fully embrace the richness of your Spirit and live in your peace. Amen.

But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you. (John 14:26)

We are surrounded by troubles, O Lord. And we often feel we though we are in the dark. We want to live a good life, but sometimes we are not sure what the right way is. Send us your Spirit, Lord Jesus, and remind us how you lived, loved, cared, and shared. Send us your Spirit, Lord Jesus, and renew and replenish us. Amen.  

Then he said to me, ‘It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give water as a gift from the spring of the water of life. (Revelation 21:6)

We are thirsty, O God. We are thirsty for your justice and freedom to reign in our communities and the world. We are thirsty for your peace and joy to fill our homes, hearts, and lives. We are thirsty for the water of life to flow like a mighty stream in our world. You are the beginning and the end, O God. Come to us in your power; come to us in your glory! Amen. 

And the one who was seated on the throne said, ‘See, I am making all things new.’ Also he said, ‘Write this, for these words are trustworthy and true. (Revelation 21:5)

You are making all things new! You are letting the beauty and brilliance of your character permeate every corner of this world. As we await the full consummation of this new reality, may we allow your promises to shape our attitudes and actions today. Here and now, may we live as inhabitants of new heaven and new earth and reflect your glory. Amen.

And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘See, the home of God is among mortals. He will dwell with them; they will be his peoples, and God himself will be with them; he will wipe every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more; mourning and crying and pain will be no more, for the first things have passed away.’ (Revelation 21:3-4)

You are with us! You are among us! In our pain and guilt, anger and frustration, you are there, wiping every tear from our eyes, replacing mourning, crying, and anguishing with shouts of joy! Fully and wholehearted, may we embrace the new life you offer us and live a life of freedom, justice, and abiding peace. Amen. 

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. (Revelations 21:1-2)

You are making all things new, O God, heaven, earth, and everything in-between! Old ways and old sorrows are passing away. No matter how bad things look now, good will win over evil! May we accept the new, good, and beautiful life you offer and live our lives with courage and compassion. Amen.

So Peter got up and went with them; and when he arrived, they took him to the room upstairs. All the widows stood beside him, weeping and showing tunics and other clothing that Dorcas had made while she was with them. (Acts 9:39)

Disciple Dorcas and her community cared for each other deeply and sincerely. When Dorcas, their beloved friend and saintly leader, became ill and died, all the widows of the community stood at her bedside, weeping. Following in their footsteps, may we support and encourage one another. May we hold one another in care and compassion and grow together as one family. Amen.

Now in Joppa there was a disciple whose name was Tabitha, which in Greek is Dorcas. She was devoted to good works and acts of charity. (Acts 9:36)

A female disciple, when only men were expected to assume such a role! Mother Tabitha must have been a very special person with unswerving devotion, her life overflowing with acts of kindness! Male or female, may we follow in her footsteps and share our lives with others. Joyfully and generously, may we devote our time, talents, and treasures to doing good and helping others. Amen.

You search out my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways. Even before a word is on my tongue, O Lord, you know it completely. You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is so high that I cannot attain it. (Psalm 139:3-6)

Mothering God, we are never out of your sight! You are behind us and before us. You know our coming and going. You know everything we’re going to say even before we start the first sentence! Hold us close in your nurturing arms and help us root and grow in faith. Amen. 

For it was you who formed my inward parts; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; that I know very well. (Psalm 139:13-14)

You changed my mourning into dancing. You took off my funeral clothes and dressed me up in joy so that my whole being might sing praises to you and never stop. (Psalm 30:11-12a, CEB)

We cry out to you for help, and you pull us out from the pit. We call out to you, and you change our mourning into dancing. You remove our funeral clothes and dress us up in joy! You are the Lord of life and fount of every blessing! May we never be silent but sing your praises forever! 

He [Jesus] said to him the third time, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter felt hurt because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” And he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep.”  (John 21:7) 

He had denied you three times. Now, three times you ask him, “Do you love me?” Of course, Peter was upset! He knew too well what he had done to you. Yet, three times, you not only restored but also reclaimed him. Three times, you said, “Feed my sheep.” You gave him a task, a mission! When we are like Peter feeling insecure and inept, come and reclaim us, Lord Jesus! Amen.

Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” Now none of the disciples dared to ask him, “Who are you?” because they knew it was the Lord. (John 21:12) 

What an awkward breakfast! Huddled around the fire, but no one really talking! We confess that we, too, often feel awkward, Lord Jesus. We know that you are there, but we do not know what to say or ask. We feel insecure and inadequate. Don’t give up on us, Lord Jesus. Keep inviting us to your table and let your living presence be known in the meal. Amen. 

Jesus said to them, “Children, you have no fish, have you?” They answered him, “No.” He said to them, “Cast the net to the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in because there were so many fish. (John 21:5-6)

After all, they were fishermen by trade. But that night, they couldn’t catch anything. No fish in the net - how frustrating! Yet, you tell them to cast the net one more time, and they do, probably without much hope nor conviction. What happens next is a miracle! When we feel empty and exhausted, come to us, Lord Jesus, and give us new direction and hope! Amen.

You changed my mourning into dancing. You took off my funeral clothes and dressed me up in joy so that my whole being might sing praises to you and never stop. (Psalm 30:11-12a, CEB)

We cry out to you for help, and you pull us out from the pit. We call out to you, and you change our mourning into dancing. You remove our funeral clothes and dress us up in joy! You are the Lord of life and fount of every blessing! May we never be silent but sing your praises forever! 

He [Jesus] said to him the third time, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter felt hurt because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” And he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep.”  (John 21:7)

He had denied you three times. Now, three times you ask him, “Do you love me?” Of course, Peter was upset! He knew too well what he had done to you. Yet, three times, you not only restored but also reclaimed him. Three times, you said, “Feed my sheep.” You gave him a task, a mission! When we are like Peter feeling insecure and inept, come and reclaim us, Lord Jesus! Amen.

Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” (John 20:21-22)

When we feel anxious and stressed, come to us with your peace, Lord Jesus. When we feel tired and worn out, come to us with your Spirit and fill us anew with your life. Breathe on us, Lord Jesus, until our hearts are pure and our will is one with yours. Then, send us out into the world to do your work. Amen.

• When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” (John 20:19)

Individually and collectively, we are often faced with pain and hurt, shame and guilt. When it happens, we do what the disciples did - we slam the door of our heart and lock it behind us. Come with your peace and set us free, Lord Jesus! Come and restore us to the life of Easter joy and hope! Amen.

With great power the apostles gave their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. (Acts 4:33)

In everything we do and say, may we bear witness to your resurrection, O Lord. With great power and determination, may we practice hope, forgiveness, healing, and transformation. Boldly and confidently, may we live as your Easter people, that your abundant grace may flow through us to this broken and hurting world. Amen.  

We are witnesses to all that he [Jesus] did both in Judea and in Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a tree; but God raised him on the third day and allowed him to appear. (Acts 10:39-40)

Just like the apostles two thousand years ago, we are witnesses to your resurrecting power, Lord Jesus. When we are down and weary, you come and lift us up. When troubles come and we are at the end of our rope, you come and free us for new possibilities. Come and raise us up to more than we can be, Lord Jesus, for we are your Easter people. Amen.  

The stone that the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone. This is the Lord’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes. (Psalm 118:22-23)

People denied, rejected, and betrayed you, Lord Jesus. People killed you and laid you in a tomb. Yet, death could not hold you down. You rose from the dead and became the cornerstone of our salvation. How marvelous is this! Save us now, Crucified and Risen Lord! Fill your creation with peace and praise, joy and love. Amen.

The women were terrified and bowed their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, “Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen. (Luke 24:5)

How often do we try to find you among the dead? How often do we linger in the graveyard of fear and despair, hopelessness and resignation? Help our unbelief, O Christ! You are alive and powerfully present in our world. You walk with us, talk with us, and tell us we are your own. Give us eyes to see, ears to hear, and hearts to believe. Amen.

The Lord turned and looked at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said to him, “Before the cock crows today, you will deny me three times.” And he went out and wept bitterly. (Luke 22:61-62) 

How often have we denied you, Lord Jesus? How often have we betrayed you, rejected you, and deserted you? Look kindly upon us, Lord Jesus. Open our eyes to see your compassion; open our ears to hear your truth. Bring us back to your love and grant us a new life. Amen.

Then he took a loaf of bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” And he did the same with the cup after supper, saying, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood. (Luke 22:19-20) 

Thank you, Jesus, for the life you lived among us, sitting at our tables, listening to our stories. Thank you, Jesus, for showing us God and God’s Kingdom in astonishing beauty and grace. Diligently and earnestly, may we gather and break bread together. In deep gratitude, may we remember what you have done for us and rejoice. Amen. 

In his anguish he [Jesus] prayed more earnestly, and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down on the ground. (Luke 22:44)

In the throes of death, you prayed. In your anguish, with your sweat falling down on the ground like drops of blood, you prayed. Knowing what was waiting for you - rejection, betrayal, denial, and desertion, you prayed. Help us stay awake and pray with you, Lord Jesus. Help us find what we need for this life’s journey in your presence and grace. Amen.

As he [Jesus] was now approaching the path down from the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to praise God joyfully with a loud voice for all the deeds of power that they had seen. (Luke 19:37)

We welcome you, Lord Jesus! With a loud voice and great joy, we welcome you, our King and Savior! As you entered Jerusalem two thousand years ago, enter our cities, communities, and homes today. Come and rule over us! Guide us into the light of faith and hope and teach us to be your people. In your holy name we pray. Amen.

I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. (Isaiah 43:19)

You are about to do a new thing, Lord Jesus. You are on the road that will lead to Pilot’s court and then to Golgotha. There, on the cross, you will change the poison of hatred and violence into the balm of healing and transformation. May we embrace the new life that will spring forth from the dead tree! In this wilderness journey, may we walk on the way you are making. Amen.

Jesus said, “Leave her alone. She bought it so that she might keep it for the day of my burial.” (John 12:7)

Full of love and full of gratitude and with little inhibition, Mary anointed you extravagantly, without counting the cost. She recognized you for who you truly were and responded with an act of pure love. Forgive us if, in our small-mindedness, we grumble, thinking that she is excessive. May we leave her alone! Rather, may we join her in passionate worship and adoration! Amen.

But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (the one who was about to betray him), said, “Why was this perfume not sold for three hundred denarii and the money given to the poor?” (John 12:4-5)

Help us understand that the Christian life of faith is more than just being useful, productive, needed, right, or moral. Help us understand that rather, it is a life of unexpected kindness and extravagant generosity, of unearned blessing and overflowing joy. Helps us understand that we may live, truly live. Amen.

Mary took a pound of costly perfume made of pure nard, anointed Jesus’ feet, and wiped them with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. (John 12:3)

How extravagant! A jar of expensive oil poured out to the last drop! What was poured out was not just oil, but also her heart, her love and devotion to you. Like Mary may we honor you with all that we have, with all that we are. Freely, joyfully, and passionately, may we live a life of total devotion to you. Amen.

So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation. (2 Corinthians 5:17-18)

You came, Jesus, so that through you, we all get a fresh start. You came, Jesus, so that in you, we are all reconciled. And you trusted us with this message of reconciliation. May we accept the new life and call. Leaving behind everything old, may we live as a forgiven and forgiving, reconciled and reconciling people. Amen.

Then the father said to him [elder son], ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and has come to life; he was lost and has been found.’” (Luke15:31-32)

We confess that more often than not we are like the elder son. We are conscientious; we work hard; we rarely get sidetracked. And, we feel that we are the ones who deserve a celebration, not the prodigal ones. Forgive us, O God, when, so focused on our duties and responsibilities, we forget the joy of your presence and daily blessing. Restore in us the ability to rejoice and celebrate with you and all our siblings on the journey home. Amen.

So he [the prodigal son] set off and went to his father. But while he was still far off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion; he ran and put his arms around him and kissed him. (Luke 15:20)

The son may have broken away from you, but your relationship to your child has never been broken. You never stopped loving him; you never stopped waiting for his return. When finally you notice his silhouette far off, you run down the road to welcome him. Help us hear your soft and tender voice calling us home, O God. Upon hearing, may we get up, set off, and come to you. Amen. 

All the tax collectors and sinners were gathering around Jesus to listen to him. The Pharisees and legal experts were grumbling, saying, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” (Luke 15:1-2, CEB)

Forgive us when we are like the Pharisees and legal experts two thousand years ago, more concerned about what is proper and respectable than what is good and gracious. Forgive us when, in the name of merit and responsibility, we disregard love and compassion. Help us understand your heart, O Jesus, and share in your life of wonderful love and generous welcome. Amen. 

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways, says the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. (Isaiah 55:8-9)

Forgive us when we insist on doing things our way. Forgive us when we take ourselves too seriously. Your ways are higher than our ways, and your thoughts higher than our thoughts. May we take you seriously. May we seek your ways, delight in your will, and walk humbly with you. Amen.

He replied, ‘Sir, let it alone for one more year, until I dig around it and put manure on it.  If it bears fruit next year, well and good; but if not, you can cut it down.’” (Luke 13:8-9)

Thank you for your patience with us, O Lord. Often we waste our lives on things that do not matter. We

are like barren trees, unproductive and fruitless. Help us rearrange our lives before it’s too late. May we let you work on us, dig around us, and fertilize and nourish us, that we may flourish and bear fruit. Amen.

Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy? Listen carefully to me, and eat what is good, and delight yourselves in rich food. (Isaiah 55:2)

Forgive us when we think we can live on cotton candy. Forgive us when we shun the real food you provide and run after the junk food that can neither nourish nor sustain us. May we listen to you and eat what is good. May we rejoice in real and rich food and live! Amen.

All of you who are thirsty, come to the water! Whoever has no money, come, buy food and eat! Without money, at no cost, buy wine and milk! (Isaiah 55:1, CEB)

Everything is free with you! Wine and milk, food and drink, all free! You are the source of everything that makes life possible and good. Whatever is needed for this life’s journey, you offer at no cost to us. May we come to you and drink. May we come to you and eat. May we come to you and live, truly live. Amen.

How precious is your steadfast love, O God! All people may take refuge in the shadow of your wings. (Psalm 36:7)

Like a hen fiercely committed to her chicks, you are determined to protect us. With your arms stretched out, you call us into your bosom. May we take refuge in the shadow of your wings. May we stand firm on the truth that, however wily and deceitful it is, the fox is not destined to have its way. Amen.

Can a woman forget her nursing child, or show no compassion for the child of her womb? Even these may forget, yet I will not forget you. (Isaiah 49:15)

You care for us like a mother for her nursing child. You would never forget us nor walk away from us. Your love is steadfast, and your grace, boundless. No matter what comes our way, may we never be afraid, but find refuge in you. Amen

Just then some Pharisees came up and said, “Run for your life! Herod’s got your number. He’s out to kill you!” Jesus said, “Tell that fox that I’ve no time for him right now.” (Luke 13:31-32a, The Message)

You came, speaking our language, sitting at our tables, and listening to our stories. You came to cast out demons, heal the sick, and give your life for the world. You never chose an easier path. You never ran for your life. Through ups and downs, twists and turns, may we stick with you, Jesus, and stay the course. In your holy name we pray. Amen.

Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! (Luke 13:34)

Lord Jesus, you care for us like a mother hen cares for her brood. Yet, we are like unruly chicks. Instead of running to you, we often run away from you. Forgive us, O God, and don’t give up on us. Gather us under your wings and hold us close. In your holy name, we pray. Amen.

Jesus answered him, “It is written, ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve only him.’” (Luke 4:8) 

May we worship you, and you only. May we serve you, and you only, with absolute single-heartedness. May we never put you, the God of the universe, to the test, but give you all our worship and praise. Through this wilderness journey to Easter renewal, may we walk with you, trusting and obeying. Amen.

And the devil said to him, “To you I will give their glory and all this authority; for it has been given over to me, and I give it to anyone I please. If you, then, will worship me, it will all be yours.” (Luke 4:6-7)

Forgive us, if, in our drive for success, we turn you, the God of the universe, into an idol. Forgive us, if, in our desire for wealth and fame, we deny you and betray you. Help us never succumb to the tempter’s voice luring us to the authority and splendor of this world. Watch over us and save us! Amen.  

The devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become a loaf of bread.” Jesus answered him, “It is written, ‘One does not live by bread alone.’” (Luke 4:3-4)

We do not have to prove who we are - we are your children! You love us and care for us. You protect us and provide for us. May we never let the devil question this truth. May we never let the devil deceive us and plant seeds of doubt in our souls. May we live, fully relying on your grace, solely feeding on your Word. Amen.  

Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness. (Luke 4:1)

We are inclined to think that, if the Spirit leads, it will be to a smooth, secure, comfortable, and pleasant place. How silly! You led Jesus into the wilderness, and you invite us to go there as well. May we follow you to that desolate, and yet life-changing place. With honesty and humility, may we plumb the depth of our souls, so that when Easter comes, we may fully embrace the new life of peace and joy. Amen.

Now about eight days after these sayings Jesus took with him Peter and John and James, and went up on the mountain to pray. (Luke 9:28) 

Dear Jesus, you often went off to the mountain to pray. Before decisions and after success, in the demands of day-to-day life and in the throes of grief, you withdrew to a remote place and prayed. May we follow you to the mountaintop and pray. There, on the mountaintop, may we see a deeper reality behind our day-to-day lives. There, in prayer, may we see the light of your abundant mercies. Amen.

Yet even now, says the LORD, return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; rend your hearts and not your clothing. (Joel 2:12-13a)

We return to you with all our heart, O God. Truly sorry and earnestly repenting, we return to you. On this day, as we begin our Lenten journey, we lament over the pain and suffering in our world and acknowledge that not all is well with us. We have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done and by what we have left undone. Forgive us, O God, and create in us a clean heart. Amen  

They shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore. (Isaiah 2:4)

Usher in, O God, that day when there will be peace among nations. Usher in, O God, that day when we will train for war anymore. Teach us how to turn swords into plowshares, and spears into pruning hooks. Fill our hearts with your peace; lead us in your way. Through Christ Jesus, our Prince of Peace. Amen

They shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore. (Isaiah 2:4)

Usher in, O God, that day when there will be peace among nations. Usher in, O God, that day when we will not train for war anymore. Teach us how to turn swords into plowshares, and spears into pruning hooks. Fill our hearts with your peace; lead us in your way. Through Christ Jesus, our Prince of Peace. Amen

Then he [Jesus] looked up at his disciples and said: “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you will be filled. Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh.” (Luke 6:20-21)

In your Kingdom, Lord Jesus, all your children will be happy and blessed – no more poverty, no more hunger, no more tears. In your Kingdom, Lord Jesus, there will be joy and laughter, love and blessing – no more sorrow, no more anger, no more hatred. This is the way life will be in your Kingdom; this is the way life should be among your people here and now. May it be so! Amen

The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve. (Jeremiah 17:9-10, NIV)

We often deceive one another. We even deceive ourselves. Who can fathom the depths of our human hearts? Yet, you know us inside out. Test our mind, search our heart, and help us turn to you, O God. Melt us, mold us, fill us, and use us, that your love and blessing may flow through our lives. Amen

The Lord proclaims: Cursed are those who trust in mere humans, who depend on human strength and turn their hearts from the Lord. They will be like a desert shrub that doesn’t know when relief comes. They will live in the parched places of the wilderness, in a barren land where no one survives. (Jeremiah 17:5-6, Common English Bible)

May we never seek our blessing in wrong places – power, prestige, pride, possession, pleasure... May we never turn our hearts away from you and live in a parched land where nothing grows. May we trust you, feast on your grace, and live, truly live. Amen. 

Blessed are those who trust in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. They shall be like a tree planted by water, sending out its roots by the stream. (Jeremiah 17:7-8)

You want us to flourish and prosper, O God. You want us to be blessed and happy, like a tree by the stream. May we plant ourselves by the river of faith and hope. With our roots put down deep into the wellspring of your grace, may we grow strong and healthy. Through the hottest of summers and droughts, may we never wither but bear fruit in due season. Amen. 

Then Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching people.” When they had brought their boats to shore, they left everything and followed him. (Luke 5:10b-11)

May we never fear but trust and obey! May we do what you say and go where you send us, for there's no other way to have a true and abundant life but to trust and obey. Grant us grace that leaving everything behind, we may follow you and walk by your side. In your holy name, we pray. Amen. 

Simon answered, “Master, we have worked all night long but have caught nothing. Yet if you say so, I will let down the nets.” (Luke 5:5) 

Like Peter and his friends after a long and unproductive night of fishing, we often feel weary and worn out. When all our hard work and effort do not seem to bear any fruit, doubt creeps in and we feel disheartened. Yet, you tell us to never give up. May we row out father and keep fishing, because you say so! Amen. 

When he [Jesus] had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch.” (Luke 5:4)

Shallow water is pleasant and comfortable. It feels safe, too, as we can see all the way to the bottom. Yet, you tell us to push out into the sea. You call us to leave the security of the known and move into the full, open, and uncontained life of the deep. Grant us the courage deep water requires, O God! Grant us faith to trust you and row out into the deep! Amen.  

God is love, and those who abide in love abide in God, and God abides in them. (1 John 4:16b)

There is nothing we can do to make you love us less. There is nothing we can do to make you love us more. You love us, warts and all. You love us, totally, completely, and unconditionally. You are love! May we abide in you, and you in us, O God. May we love and be loved today and every day. Amen.

Rescue me, O my God, from the hand of the wicked, from the grasp of the unjust and cruel. For you, O Lord, are my hope, my trust, O Lord, from my youth. (Psalm 71:4-5)

Rescue us from the unjust and cruel powers of this world, O God. Free us from the grasp of anything that diminishes, distorts, and destroys your image in each and every one of your children. Save us, O God, and lead us to your compassion and courage, joy and love. Amen. 

Be to me a rock of refuge, a strong fortress, to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress. (Psalm 71:3)

You are our rock and our fortress, O God. You are our refuge and salvation. Save us from our fear, doubt, and anger. Save us from our pettiness, pride, and prejudice. Save us from our indifference, resignation, and cynicism. Save us, O God, and do not let us settle when we could and should change and make a positive difference in our lives and the world. Amen

I’ve taken refuge in you, Lord. Don’t let me ever be put to shame! Deliver me and rescue me by your righteousness! Bend your ear toward me and save me! (Psalm 71:1-2, Common English Bible)

Hear the cries of the suffering, O God! Turn your ear to the lonely and despairing! Together, we take refuge in your goodness and mercy. Together, we pray for a world of peace and a hopeful future. Listen to your children praying, O God, and get us out of this mess and up on our feet! Amen.  

I know the plans I have in mind for you, declares the Lord; they are plans for peace, not disaster, to give you a future filled with hope. (Jeremiah 29:11)

We often feel disheartened, O Lord, for there is so much pain and suffering in this world, Yet, you tell us that you have plans for us - plans for peace, not disaster; plans to give us a future filled with hope, not fear and despair. May we collaborate with you on your plans! May we move forward with renewed zeal to live according to your purpose and will for our lives. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.  

Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world. (James 1:27)

Grant us real faith that is pure and undefiled, O God. Help us grow more holy, more loving, and more like Jesus each day. Don’t let us walk away when we can make a difference in this world, especially in the lives of those that are overlooked and ignored. Grant us grace that we may put our faith, hope, and love in action. Amen. 

Don’t fool yourself into thinking that you are a listener when you are anything but, letting the Word go in one ear and out the other. Act on what you hear! (James 1:22, The Message) 

You created us to do good and not just avoid evil. You want us as coworkers and not as idle spectators. Don’t let us ignore your invitation, O God. Grant us understanding in our hearing, and courage in our doing, acting, and practicing, so that your Word may be shown in our daily lives. Amen.

Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me. (Matthew 25:40) 

You have a special heart for the least, the last, and the lost - this is great news for us, because that’s what we all are! We do not deserve your attention, let alone your love! Yet, you embrace us as we are and invite us to be on your team! Grant us grace that we may see as you see and love as you love. Amen. 

I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me. (Matthew 25:35)

Who are the hungry and thirsty among us? Who are the strangers who feel rejected and unwanted? Open our eyes, Lord Jesus, that we may see you in the pain and suffering of this world. Open our hearts, Lord Jesus, that we may show kindness and respect to everyone we meet today, especially to those in need of any kind. In your holy name we pray. Amen.

"The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free. (Luke 4:18)

We were all baptized in the same Spirt that was on you, Jesus - the Spirit of justice and freedom, the Spirit of love and light. May we all come to this fountain of your Spirit and drink from it. May we let your Spirit refresh and energize us for the work of the Gospel you have entrusted with us. Amen. 

If one member suffers, all suffer together with it; if one member is honored, all rejoice together with it. (1 Corinthians 12:26)

There are so many parts in a body - parts that are readily noticeable and parts that are not. Yet, every part of the body is dependent on every other part. No member draws its significance and meaning on its own. If a member hurts, may we all participate in the healing. If a member prospers, may we all rejoice and celebrate. May we all flourish together as one body! Amen

For in the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body--Jews or Greeks, slaves or free--and we were all made to drink of one Spirit. (1 Corinthians 12:13)

Race, ethnicity, gender, age, socio-economic status, dis(ability)… We put so many labels on one another and erect dividing walls among us. Yet, you tell us that we all belong to one another, that we were all baptized into one body. May we all say good-bye to our partial and divided lives. May we all drink of one Spirit and enter a whole and integrated life in which you have the final say in everything. Amen.

For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. (1 Corinthians 12:12)

Every time we take a step, hundreds of bones and muscles work together in harmony, so that what we experience is a single, unified movement. Every time we, the church, make a move, whenever we gather for worship, fellowship, mission, and outreach, help us realize that we are in it together! Strengthen our connection, O God! Make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world! Amen.

Each person is given something to do that shows who God is: Everyone gets in on it, everyone benefits. All kinds of things are handed out by the Spirit, and to all kinds of people! (1 Corinthians 12:7, The Message)

We all have gifts to receive, we all have gifts to offer, not for show, not to lord it over someone else, but to show who you are! We all get in on it; we all benefit! May we lose ourselves in service to you and to one another. In our receiving and offering of our gifts, may your name be glorified and your reign furthered. Amen  

There are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. (I Corinthians 12:6-7) 

No one has all the gifts needed to survive, let alone to thrive. We all need each other. We all need to come together, bringing various gifts you have given us. May we never consider any of these gifts as merit badges nor signs of your approval, but as your response to the needs of our communities. Amen. 

Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord. (1 Corinthians 12:4-5)

What a wonderfully diverse world you created, O God! We are all created in the same Spirit. We all bear the same imprint - your image. And yet, we are endowed each with unique gifts. We celebrate the various ways your Spirit gets worked into our lives. We rejoice in your marvelous design. Thank you, Lord! What an awesome God you are! Amen. 

Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, the heaven was opened, and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, "You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased." (Luke 3:21-22) 

We are baptized; we are your children; we are a people chosen and marked by your love; in us, you take great pride and joy! May we be grounded in this utmost truth and endure all things, believe all things, and hope all things. As your baptized people, may we make this life journey with courage and compassion, caring as you cared, and sharing as you shared. Amen. 

The Lord sits enthroned over the flood; the Lord sits enthroned as king forever. May the Lord give strength to his people! May the Lord bless his people with peace! (Psalm 29:10-11)

Give us your strength, O God! Bless us with your peace! However chaotic the waters below us may seem, however overwhelming current realities may feel, may we never be discouraged. No matter what happens around us or in our lives, may we make this life journey as your blessed people! Amen.

But now, says the LORD—the one who created you, Jacob, the one who formed you, Israel: Don’t fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are mine. (Isaiah 43:1, Common English Bible)

Sharon, Cheryl, Sherry, Shirley, Pat, Dan, Dick, Steve, Bob, Bobbie…. You call us by our name, O God. You know our name; you know the number of the hairs on our heads. As sheep belong to a shepherd, we belong to you! We are yours! However frightening current realities may seem, may we trust you and never be afraid! Amen. 

When you’re in over your head, I’ll be there with you. When you’re in rough waters, you will not go down. When you’re between a rock and a hard place, it won’t be a dead end—Because I am God, your personal God, The Holy of Israel, your Savior. (Isaiah 43:2-3a, The Message)

It’s in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, he had his eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone. (Ephesians 1:11-12, The Message) 

Glorious living is your design for us! We are a part of the overall purpose you are working out in everything and everyone! Fulfill your purpose, O God. We submit ourselves to your design. We commit ourselves to your will. Amen. 

He set it all out before us in Christ, a long-range plan in which everything would be brought together and summed up in him, everything in deepest heaven, everything on planet earth. (Ephesians 1:10, The Message) 

You have a plan for a sparrow; you have a plan for the entire universe. You have a plan, a long-range plan, for our lives - a plan to restore everything in beauty, a plan to redeem everything in glory, a plan for peace and unity, a plan for justice and freedom. Let your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Let us be a part of your Kingdom work. Amen. 

Long before he laid down earth’s foundations, he had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of his love, to be made whole and holy by his love. (Ephesians 1:4, The Message) 

You had us in mind, long before you created the universe. You destined us to be the focus of your love, long before we were even born. Make us whole and holy, O God. Help us grow more loving, more caring, and more like you each day. May we draw closer to you and to each other this year. Amen.  

I greet you with the grace and peace poured into our lives by God our Father and our Master, Jesus Christ. (Ephesians 1:2, The Message) 

We greet you, God of centuries, decades, years, months, weeks, days, hours, and minutes. You are the God of the present moment. You are the God of time and eternity. Each moment of our days, each step of our ways, pour your grace and peace into our lives, O God, that we may dwell in your light and rejoice. Amen.

And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful. (Colossians 3:15) 

Rule in our hearts with your peace, Lord Jesus. Break down dividing walls; bring us together in the unity of your Spirit. May we take each moment and live it fully and joyfully in your peace. With every step we take, may we walk with you and with each other in perfect harmony. Rule in our hearts with your peace, Lord Jesus. Amen. 

When the festival was ended and they started to return, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but his parents did not know it. (Luke 2:43)

We, too, are quite capable of losing you, Jesus. Even in our Christmas celebrations, we often leave you out! We forget you, sometimes because we are too busy and tired, sometimes because we are too sad and upset, sometimes because we are overloaded and stressed out. When this happens, forgive us, Jesus, and lead us back to life in you. Amen. 

And Jesus increased in wisdom and in years, and in divine and human favor. (Luke 2:52)

Each day, each year, may we grow stronger in our faith, Lord Jesus. Both in mind and spirit, heart and soul, may we mature and find grace and good understanding with you and the people around us. As we increase in years, may we increase in wisdom as well and grow stronger with you, Jesus. Amen.    

Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors! (Luke 1:14)

We sing praises to you, O God, for you chose not to be God alone, aloof and distant, but came to us in flesh and blood, as a child among us. We sing glory to you, O God, for you came, proclaiming peace in this troubled world. Rule in our hearts, O God, that we may reflect your glory now and forevermore! Amen.

He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts. He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly. (Luke 1:51-52)

Come with your strong arms, O Lord, and scatter the proud, the haughty, and the powerful. Come with your tender love and lift up the poor, the lowly, the wronged, and the oppressed. Come with your light and shine out of darkness. Come, Lord Jesus, come, and turn this world right side up. Amen. 

And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed.” (Luke 1:46-48)

Along with Mary, may we sing our happy praises this Christmas. Along with Mary, may our spirit rejoice in your birth, God our Savior. Stir up our hearts and prepare us for your coming. Fill us with awe and wonder, great joy and peace, may we celebrate in you and you in us this Christmas! Amen     

Then Mary said, “Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her. (Luke 1:38) 

How scary it must have been - a poor teenage girl, unwed and pregnant, in the first century Jewish world! Yet, she says yes! She neither argues nor negotiates. She simply opens herself up to your will. Grant us Mary’s faith and courage, O God. In holy awe and wonder, we, too, may offer ourselves up to your Word. Amen.

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On that day it shall be said to Jerusalem: Do not fear, O Zion; do not let your hands grow weak. The LORD, your God, is in your midst, a warrior who gives victory; he will rejoice over you with gladness, he will renew you in his love; he will exult over you with loud singing. (Zephaniah 3:16-17)

Take away, O God. Take away all our sins and sorrows. Make a way, O God. Make a way where there is no way. Free us from anything that makes our lives miserable. Dissipate all our fears and doubts; renew us in your love. May we rejoice over you, and you over us, now and forevermore. Amen.

Rejoice, Daughter Zion! Shout, Israel! Rejoice and exult with all your heart, Daughter Jerusalem. The LORD, the king of Israel, is in your midst; you will no longer fear evil. (Zephaniah 3:14 & 15b) 

You are in our midst, O God, in charge and at the center. You are there, in our midst, shining light into the dark corners of our lives. May we rejoice and exult with all our heart! May we accept the freedom and power you give us to reject the wickedness of this world! May we fear evil no more but live in joy! Amen.

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. (Isaiah 12:2)

Surely, you are our salvation, O God. Surely, you are our strength and shield. Even in the midst of deepening darkness, may we put all our trust in you, and not be afraid. Even in this time of increasing confusion and doubt, may we draw what we need for this life’s journey from the wellspring of your love, and not be anxious. Amen.  

And this is my prayer, that your love may overflow more and more with knowledge and full insight to help you to determine what is best, so that in the day of Christ you may be pure and blameless. (Philippians 1:9-10)

May our love flourish, O God. May we love, not just much, but well. May our love be sincere and intelligent, not sentimental gush. Rich with knowledge and insight, may we determine what really matters and live a lover’s life, a life Jesus will be proud of. This we pray in the name of the Love Incarnate, Christ Jesus our Savior. Amen.

By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. (Luke 1:78-79)

Come to us with your tender mercies, O God. Make your dawn break in upon us, giving light to those living in darkness, to guide our feet into the way of peace. Come to us with your deep compassion, O God, and show us the way. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen. 

Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be made low, and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways made smooth; and all flesh shall see the salvation of God. (Luke 3:4b-6)

Stir up our hearts, O Lord, to prepare the way for you. Raise up the valleys of our inner guilt; demolish our mountainous pride; correct our distorted vision; smooth out our rough edges. Begin your roadwork in us, O Lord, that we may see your salvation. In the name of the Coming One we pray. Amen.

See, I am sending my messenger to prepare the way before me, and the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple. The messenger of the covenant in whom you delight—indeed, he is coming, says the Lord of hosts. (Malachi 3:1)

You are coming, O Lord! Into our hearts, into our lives, into our homes, into our world, you are coming! Prepare our hearts to receive you. Prepare our lives to meet you. May we welcome you with our hearts adorned with prayer, joy, and love! Amen.  

So, whatever you do, don’t fall asleep at the wheel. Pray constantly that you will have the strength and wits to make it through everything that’s coming and end up on your feet before the Son of Man. (Luke 21:36, The Message)

Even when our hectic lives overwhelm us, may we never let our energies be drained, but pray! Even in moments of desolation and despair, may we never lose hope, but pray! May we never fall asleep at the wheel, but pray! May our waiting for the coming one, baby Jesus, be never passive nor frenetic, but passionate and prayerful! May we pray and live, truly live! Amen. 

Take care that your hearts aren’t dulled by drinking parties, drunkenness, and the anxieties of day-to-day life. Don’t let that day fall upon you unexpectedly, like a trap. (Luke 21:34-35a, Common English Bible)

We often feel stressed out, O God. There is just so much to do, but we feel we do not enough time, not enough resources. Help us not give in to the anxieties of our daily lives nor seek solace in wrong places. Our heads high and our hearts open, may we make this life’s journey fully relying the grace of the coming one, baby Jesus. Amen.

There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves. Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near. (Luke 21:25 & 28) 

Extreme heat, exceptional drought, roaring sea, and sprawling wildfires - we are frightened and dismayed. Hatred and warfare, hunger and homelessness, disease and despair – we feel lost and downcast. Come with your redeeming love, baby Jesus! Come with your restoring grace! Come, baby Jesus, come and save us! Amen. 

The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will fulfill the promise I made to the house of Israel and the house of Judah. In those days and at that time I will cause a righteous Branch to spring up for David; and he shall execute justice and righteousness in the land. (Jeremiah 33:14-15)  

As the faithful who waited for their promised King in Jeremiah’s time, we await your coming, baby Jesus. Come into our hearts; come into our lives. Come into our homes; come into our world. From our age-old convictions and established routines, make a fresh shoot sprout, baby Jesus. Amen.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise. Give thanks to him, bless his name. For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations. (Psalm 100:4-5)  

Your steadfast love endures forever, and we give you thanks, O God. Your faithfulness continues through all generations, and we praise your name. May we worship you with gladness in this season of thanksgiving and always. All the days of our lives, may we walk in your light and bask in the warmth of your grace. Amen.  

I thank my God every time I mention you in my prayers. I’m thankful for all of you every time I pray, and it’s always a prayer full of joy. I’m glad because of the way you have been my partners in the ministry of the gospel from the time you first believed it until now. (Philippians 1:3-5, Common English Bible)

Thank you for friends, family, and faith! Thank you for your gift of this community of prayer! Full of joy, we pray for each another. Full of hope, we pray for our communities and the world. Full of gratitude, may we carry on the ministry of the Gospel you have begun within us until the day of its completion. Amen. 

Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has promised is faithful. And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds. (Hebrews 10:23-24)  

Thank you for your promise, O God! Thank you for your faithfulness! Holding fast to the confession of our hope, may we carry on the work of your Gospel of grace. Without wavering, may we spur each other on to love and good deeds. This we pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

The earth is the LORD’s and all that is in it, the world, and those who live in it. (Psalm 24:1)

He will wipe every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more; mourning and crying and pain will be no more, for the first things have passed away. (Revelations 21:4)

You, indeed, O God, make all things new. You, who destroyed death, restore all things in beauty. You wipe away every tear from our eyes – mourning gone, crying gone, pain gone, all the first order of things gone. Grant us grace, O God, that we may start living as people of your new creation right here, right now. Amen.

All human life on the earth is like grass, and all human glory is like a flower in a field. The grass dries up and its flower falls off, but the Lord’s word endures forever. (1 Peter 1:24-25)

As days shorten and fall colors start to fade and fall, we remember the finitude and transiency of our human existence. No one stays here on earth forever! We only pass through! Yet, your Word, O God, endures forever. Your Love, O God, is from everlasting to everlasting. Grant us grace that we may embrace your vision of new and eternal life and begin to live it right here, right now. Amen. 

They [disciples] were greatly astounded and said to one another, “Then who can be saved?” Jesus looked at them and said, “For mortals it is impossible, but not for God; for God all things are possible.” (Mark 10:27-27) 

Save us, Jesus, for we cannot save ourselves. Save us from our attachments; save us from our inclinations, save us from ourselves. May we reject the values and possessions of this world. May we accept the freedom and power you give us to resist evil, injustice, and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves. Save us, Lord Jesus! Amen. 

It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.” (Mark 10:25)

Jesus, you know the depth of our captivity. You know how attached we are to what we have achieved and accumulated – our wealth, our success, our reputation. You know how they prevent us from seeing and being who we truly are. In your grace, free us, Lord Jesus! With your power, lead us to your Kingdom! Amen.

Jesus, looking at him [the rich man who kept the law], loved him and said, “You lack one thing; go, sell what you own, and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” (Mark 10:21)

Jesus said to him [blind beggar Bartimaeus], “Go; your faith has made you well.” Immediately he regained his sight and followed him on the way. (Mark 10:52)

Make us well, Lord Jesus. Pour out your Spirit upon us and announce recovery of sight to the blind. Set the burdened and battered free and proclaim that this is God’s time to shine. Pour out your Spirit upon us and make us well, Lord Jesus! Amen.

So throwing off his cloak, he sprang up and came to Jesus. Then Jesus said to him, “What do you want me to do for you?” The blind man said to him, “My teacher, let me see again.” (Mark 10:50-51)

Throwing off our coats, on our feet at once, we come to you, Lord Jesus, for we want to see again! Open our eyes and let us see the glimpses of truth you have for us. Then, seeing, may we also open our hearts and bear your truth everywhere. Open our eyes, open our hearts, Lord Jesus, that we may see and live again! Amen.

Jesus stood still and said, “Call him here.” And they called the blind man, saying to him, “Take heart; get up, he is calling you.” (Mark 10:49)

Call us, Lord Jesus! When we cry out to you, hear us and answer us! Just like you called the blind man on the  roadside, call us and speak your word of hope, Lord Jesus, that we, too, may take heart, get up, and follow you on the path that leads to a life of love and light. Amen.

When he [blind beggar Bartimaeus] heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” Many sternly ordered him to be quiet, but he cried out even more loudly, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” (Mark 10:47-48)

Have mercy on us, Jesus! We are no different than Bartimaeus on that roadside, sitting hapless and in the dark. When we feel lost and wretched, unable to see what lies ahead, grant us Bartimaeus’ tenacity. Even when the world tries to hush and shush us, may we never stop shouting out to you - Jesus, have mercy on us! Amen.  

Encourage each other every day, as long as it’s called “today,” so that none of you become insensitive to God because of sin’s deception. We are partners with Christ, but only if we hold on to the confidence we had in the beginning until the end. (Hebrews 3:13-14, Common English Bible)

Today, may we encourage each other. Today, may we keep each other on our toes, so that none of us become callous or insensitive to you. Today, may we watch our step and make sure there’s no sin lying around that will trip us up and throw us off course. Today, may we keep our grip on the sure thing we started out with – your love for all! Amen.

So, my dear Christian friends, companions in following this call to the heights, take a good hard look at Jesus. He’s the centerpiece of everything we believe, faithful in everything God gave him to do. (Hebrews 3:1-2, The Message)

Jesus, you are the centerpiece of everything we believe, and you call us to the heights. In our hearts and in our lives, may we be more loving, more holy, and more like you each day. Together, as companions on the road of faith, may we keep our eyes fixed on you and imitate the faithfulness with which you both began and finished this race we’re in. Amen. 

Long ago God spoke to our ancestors in many and various ways by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by a Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, through whom he also created the worlds. (Hebrews 1:1-2)

Thank you, O God, for speaking to us in many and various ways! You have spoken to us through your creation; you have spoken to us through your prophets. Ultimately, you have spoken to us through Jesus Christ, your love incarnate. Give us eyes to see and ears to hear. Grant us grace that, upon seeing and hearing, we may follow up on the path that leads to life of hope and joy. Amen.

Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:16)

You know us, Lord Jesus. You know our strengths, you know our weaknesses. You know our triumphs, you know our struggles. You know us inside out, and yet, you do not judge us. We come to you boldly, therefore, to receive what you are ready to give – mercy and grace, strength and courage. Amen.

Indeed, the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul from spirit, joints from marrow; it is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12)

Your Word, O God, is like a surgeon’s scalpel! It cuts through everything, whether doubt or defense, thoughts or intentions. Your Word, O God, is living, active, and powerful, with the authority to reveal the ultimate truth about who we really are. May we never pretend, hide, or resist. May we let your Word lay us open to listen and obey. Amen. 

Where could I [palmist] go to get away from your [God’s] spirit? Where could I go to escape your presence? If I went up to heaven, you would be there. If I went down to the grave, you would be there too! (Psalm 139:7-8, Common English Bible)

You are everywhere, O Great God. Whether we feel it or not, whether we perceive it or not, you are there, preceding us and following us, guiding us and watching over us. May we never run away from you! Through ups and downs, twists and turns of our life’s journey, may we let you hold us tight and lead our way. Amen.

“If I [Job] go forward, he [God] is not there; or backward, I cannot perceive him [God]; on the left he [God] hides, and I cannot behold him [God]; I turn to the right, but I cannot see him [God].” (Job 23:8-9)

O God, sometimes, we are like Job at the end of his rope. You seem silent. You seem nowhere to be found. And, like Job, we feel terrified and desperate. Grant us grace, O God, that, even in the middle of these dark moments of our souls, we may never lose our grip on your word of promise and stay the course. Through Christ Jesus, our Rock. Amen.

He [Jesus] is the reflection of God’s glory and the exact imprint of God’s very being, and he sustains all things by his powerful word. (Hebrews 1:3a)

Jesus, you are the radiance of God’s glory. Jesus, you are the purest and the most exact imprint of God. You show us God’s love; you show us God’s way. You have spoken the ultimate truth, and you are still speaking. May we pay attention to your words, for they have power – the power to redeem, the power to transform. May we pay attention to you and live, truly live. Amen.

Examine me, GOD, from head to foot, order your battery of tests. Make sure I’m fit inside and out, so I never lose sight of your love, but keep in step with you, never missing a beat. (Psalm 26:2-3, The Message)

Examine us and make us fit, O God, inside and out. Search our hearts and keep us in step with you, that we may never lose sight of your love. Draw us closer to you, that, never missing a beat, we may sing and dance to the rhythm of your pulsing heart. Amen. 

Clear my name, GOD; I’ve kept an honest shop. I’ve thrown in my lot with you, GOD, and I’m not budging. (Psalm 26:1, The Message)

Sometimes, O God, we feel that our integrity is being tested. Sometimes, O God, we feel lost and confused. When we are on a rocky road and that we doubt and question, remind us, O God, that you are there, holding our hands, carrying us through. Grant us grace that we may not budge, but hang in there, our lot thrown in with you. Amen. 

While they were eating, he took a loaf of bread, and after blessing it he broke it, gave it to them, and said, “Take; this is my body.” (Mark 14:22) 

Jesus, you are the bread of life, taken, blessed, broken, and given away. Thank you for coming to us in such an intimate way - in a meal! Thank you for gathering us together, your people throughout the land, around your table! May we come to your meal just as we are, with all our pains and struggles. May we, then, go out into the world transformed into what we just ate – your body and the bread of life. Amen. 

"Salt is good; but if salt has lost its saltiness, how can you season it? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with one another.” (Mark 9:50) 

May we be preservers. May we be enhancers. May we never lose our flavor as disciples of your way. May we bring comfort to those in times of trouble. May we bring strength to those on a rocky road. May we be makers of peace and spreader of joy. In your name we pray. Amen.  

“If any of you put a stumbling block before one of these little ones who believe in me, it would be better for you if a great millstone were hung around your neck and you were thrown into the sea.” (Mark 9:42) 

Forgive us, O God, when we cause our brothers and sisters to trip and fall on the road toward you. Forgive us, O God, when we become a stumbling block before a little child just learning to walk. Help us realize the impact of our words, attitudes, and behaviors. May we use them to heal and restore, not to hurt and harm. Amen. 

For truly I tell you, whoever gives you a cup of water to drink because you bear the name of Christ will by no means lose the reward. (Mark 9:41)

May we offer a cup of water to drink to each other in your name. May we become conduits for your life-giving grace for whoever comes our way. May we channel your healing presence and power to those that are hurting. In so doing, may we experience deep joy and unfathomable peace, which is our reward to receive and share. Amen.

John said to Jesus, “Teacher, we saw someone throwing demons out in your name, and we tried to stop him because he wasn’t following us.” Jesus replied, “Don’t stop him.” (Mark 9:38-39a)

It is not about proper orders or procedures. It is not about titles or credentials. To be a Christian is to follow you, and to follow you is to do your work, casting out demons, restoring health and wholeness. Instead of trying to control and regulate the flow of your grace in this world, may we join you in your work. This we pray in your name. Amen.

He sat down, called the twelve, and said to them, “Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all.” (Mark 9:35)

God help us when we think that we are self-sufficient and self-made. God help us when we feel that we are superior to others and entitled to all the riches of this world whiles others are not. Help us live humbly. Help us live well, as servants of all, that we may know the blessing of your mercy, forgiveness, and love. Amen.

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. They are like trees planted by streams of water. (Psalm 1:1 & 3a) 

Make us happy, O God, like trees planted by streams of water! Help us sink our roots deep down into your heart, that we may thrive and bear fruit. May we take up the life-giving water deep down from your heart and seek it nowhere else. Make us happy, O God, truly happy! Amen. 

Real wisdom, God’s wisdom, begins with a holy life and is characterized by getting along with others. It is gentle and reasonable, overflowing with mercy and blessings, not hot one day and cold the next, not two-faced. (James 3:17, The Message)

Help us grow in your wisdom, O God. Help us live a holy, humble, and compassionate life. May we treat each other with dignity and honor. Together, may we develop a healthy and robust community that lives right with you, welcoming everyone and putting love into action. Amen.

“Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes not me but the one who sent me.” (Mark 9:37) 

You welcome us as we are, even when we do not understand, like little children. You embrace us as we are, even when we are confused and messed up, like little children. And you want us to do the same – welcome and embrace all our sisters and brothers, especially the little ones – the poor and the powerless, the oppressed and the vulnerable. Grant us grace, O God, that we may welcome everyone in your name. Amen.

For what will it profit them to gain the whole world and forfeit their life? Indeed, what can they give in return for their life? (Mark 8:36-37)

All the world has to offer – money, fame, pleasure, power, prestige – they will pass. Sooner or later, earthly things will fade away. May we not lose everything – our lives, our souls - in hopes of gaining something! May we live, truly live, filled with your goodness, lost in your love! Amen.

He called the crowd with his disciples, and said to them, “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. (Mark 8:34)

Help us surrender all to you, our blessed Savior. Help us look to you, O precious Lord, and ever love and trust you. May we live in the joy of your presence rather than in pursuit of worldly pleasures. May we surrender all to you and live in the astonishing beauty of your grace. Amen.

Wisdom shouts in the street; in the public square she raises her voice. “You should respond when I correct you. Look, I’ll pour out my spirit on you. I’ll reveal my words to you.” (Proverbs 1: 20 & 23, Common English Bible)

You are the giver of the true Wisdom, O God. You are the Wisdom. From your mouth comes knowledge and understanding, love and light. May we listen to you when you shout in the public square. May we pay attention to you when you whisper in the silence of quiet moments. May we heed your Word and live, truly live. Amen.  

The revelation of GOD is whole and pulls our lives together. The signposts of GOD are clear and point out the right road. The life-maps of GOD are right, showing the way to joy. (Psalm 19:7-8, The Message)

Your revelations, your signposts, your life-maps – they are whole, clear, and right. They pull our lives together, they point out the right road, and they show us the way to joy. May we hold on to your Word and follow your guidance. May we never stray away from the light and joy of your presence. Amen

In every way, then, speak and act as people who will be judged by the law of freedom. There will be no mercy in judgment for anyone who hasn’t shown mercy. Mercy overrules judgment. (James 2:12-13, Common English Bible)

Mercy overrules judgment! Love trumps everything – hate, fear, evil! This is the ultimate law – that in Christ Jesus, we are freed to care and share, love and serve, and show mercy. May we speak and act as people of faith. May we live our everyday lives freely and joyfully, as people liberated from the bondage of sin and destruction. Amen.

My dear friends, don’t let public opinion influence how you live out our glorious, Christ-originated faith. Listen, dear friends. Isn’t it clear by now that God operates quite differently? (James 2:1 & 5, The Message)

Those who trust in the LORD are like Mount Zion, which cannot be moved, but abides forever. As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds his people, from this time on and forevermore. (Psalm 125:1-2)

Sing and make music to the Lord in your hearts; always give thanks to God the Father for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Ephesians 5:19b-20, Common English Bible)

Do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but be filled with the Spirit. (Ephesians 5:18)

Be careful then how you live, not as unwise people but as wise, making the most of the time, because the days are evil. So do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. (Ephesians 5:15-17)

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding. (Psalm 111:10)

Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children, and live in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. (Ephesians 5:1-2)

Let no evil talk come out of your mouths, but only what is useful for building up, as there is need, so that your words may give grace to those who hear. (Ephesians 4:29)

Be angry but do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger and do not make room for the devil. (Ephesians 4:26-27)

So then, putting away falsehood, let all of us speak the truth to our neighbors, for we are members of one another. (Ephesians 4:25)

Yet he commanded the skies above, and opened the doors of heaven; he rained down on them manna to eat, and gave them the grain of heaven. (Psalm 78:23-24)

Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. (John 6:35)

He split rocks open in the wilderness, and gave them drink abundantly as from the deep. He made streams come out of the rock, and caused waters to flow down like rivers. (Psalm 78:15-16)

For the bread of God is that which comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” They said to him, “Sir, give us this bread always.” (John 6:33-34)

Jesus looked up and saw the large crowd coming toward him. He asked Philip, “Where will we buy food to feed these people?” (John 6:5)

Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen. (Ephesians 3:20-21)

God is building a home. He’s using us all—irrespective of how we got here—in what he is building. He used the apostles and prophets for the foundation. Now he’s using you, fitting you in brick by brick, stone by stone, with Christ Jesus as the cornerstone that holds all the parts together. (Ephesians 2:19-21, The Message)

As he went ashore, he saw a great crowd; and he had compassion for them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things. (Mark 6: 34)

The apostles gathered around Jesus, and told him all that they had done and taught. He said to them, “Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while.” (Mark 6: 30-31)

Go and tell my servant David: Thus says the Lord: Are you the one to build me a house to live in? The LORD declares to you that the LORD will make you a house. (2 Samuel 7:5 & 11b)

It’s in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. (Ephesians 1:11, The Message)

Who we are and what we are living for – these are big questions, and we often struggle to find answers, we often feel lost and confused. Have mercy on us when we try to find the meaning of purpose of our lives in wrong places. Gently and graciously, bring us back into your fold and remind us who and whose we are. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Because of the sacrifice of the Messiah, his blood poured out on the altar of the Cross, we’re a free people—free of penalties and punishments chalked up by all our misdeeds. And not just barely free, either. Abundantly free! (Ephesians 1:7-8, The Message)

In Christ, you freed us, O God. You made us free - not barely free, but abundantly free! May we believe in this truth. May we live into this reality. May we never forfeit what you have made possible through the sacrifice of the Messiah. All our sins and sorrows surrendered on the altar of the Cross, may we live freely and joyfully. Amen.

Long before he laid down earth’s foundations, he had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of his love, to be made whole and holy by his love. Long, long ago he decided to adopt us into his family through Jesus Christ. (Ephesians 1:4-5, The Message)

How awesome is this! You had us in mind even before the foundation of the world! You had settled on us as the focus of your love even before we were born! Long, long ago, you decided that we were your family! May we dwell in this truth and never let anyone or anything lead us astray. Amen.

Therefore I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities for the sake of Christ; for whenever I am weak, then I am strong. (2 Corinthians 12:10)

Forgive us when we feel discouraged thinking that we are weak, that we do not have what we need to secure our existence in the world and be successful. Your power is made perfect in our weakness; your grace abounds in our vulnerability! May we go forth, secured in your grace, rejoicing in your strength! Amen.

He (Jesus) ordered them to take nothing for their journey except a staff; no bread, no bag, no money in their belts. (Mark 6:8)

You tell us that you are to travel light, taking nothing for our journey except a staff! Yes, indeed, your grace is enough; it’s all we need. Your strength comes into its own in our weakness. May we travel light, fully relying on your grace! Amen.

The best thing you can do right now is to finish what you started last year and not let those good intentions grow stale. Your heart’s been in the right place all along. You’ve got what it takes to finish it up, so go to it. (2 Corinthians 8: 10-11, The Message)

You have started a good work in us, O God. And you have given us what it takes to finish it up. May we never let our good intentions grow stale but stay the course. In your strength and power, with our hearts and minds constantly renewed, may we accomplish the good work you have started in us. Amen. 

Now as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in utmost eagerness, and in our love for you]—so we want you to excel also in this generous undertaking. (2 Corinthians 8:7)

Thank you for showering the congregation of Hinsdale UMC with so many amazing gifts - faith, speech, knowledge, commitment, and love! May we also excel in the work of grace! Whatever task you set before us, may we undertake it with cheerful and generous hearts! Through Christ Jesus, our Lord. Amen. 

God’s a safe-house for the battered,

a sanctuary during bad times.

The moment you arrive, you relax;

you’re never sorry you knocked.

(Psalm 9: 9-10, The Message)

You, O God, are a safe-house for the battered. You, O God, are a sanctuary during bad times. When life gets stormy, may we find comfort and strength in you. No matter the circumstances, may we come to you, knock, and relax. Amen. 

He (Jesus) got up and gave orders to the wind, and he said to the lake, “Silence! Be still!” The wind settled down and there was a great calm.” (Mark 4: 39, Common English Bible)

You give orders, Jesus, and the wind settles down. You speak, Jesus, and the waves are hushed. Speak to us, Jesus. Speak to the voices inside our heads that tell us that we are not enough. Speak to the voices around us that try to lead us astray. May we be still and know that you are God. Amen.

Blessed are those who trust in the Lord,

whose trust is the Lord.

They shall be like a tree planted by water,

sending out its roots by the stream.

It shall not fear when heat comes,

and its leaves shall stay green;

in the year of drought it is not anxious,

and it does not cease to bear fruit. (Jeremiah 17: 7-8)

Plant us by the streams, O God, that our roots may reach down to the water - the water of your grace, the water of your love. Through the hottest of summers or in the time of drought, may we never be stressed, but remain green and never fail to bear fruit. Amen.

Consider a mustard seed. When scattered on the ground, it’s the smallest of all the seeds on the earth; but when it’s planted, it grows and becomes the largest of all vegetable plants. It produces such large branches that the birds in the sky are able to nest in its shade.” (Mark 4: 31-32, CEB)

May we grow like mustard seeds. May we sprout and grow into vital and vibrant plants, producing large branches, that the birds in the sky may come and nest in our shade. May we be a safe haven for all who huger for a better life. May we be a home for all who thirst for a deeper faith. Amen.

Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. (Colossians 3: 14)

Your love, O Jesus, is the only thing that can bind everything together in perfect harmony. Your love, O Christ, is the only bond that cannot be broken. Let your love grab us deep inside and flow through us, that we may be one and the world will know that we are your children. In your holy name we pray. Amen.  

Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. (Colossians 3: 13)

We often feel irritated. We often feel offended. We often feel frustrated. We live in a world divided by so many different opinions and strong feelings. And we just don’t seem to be able to reach across the aisles! May we forgive each other as you have forgiven us. May we embrace each other as you have embraced us. Amen.

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of^[ the Holy Spirit be with all of you. (2 Corinthians 13: 13)

You let your presence and power known in many different ways - in ordinary, as well as extraordinary ways, in old and familiar, but also new, fresh, and unexpected ways. With your amazing grace, extravagant love, and intimate friendship, you are with us. In humility and gratitude, may we open ourselves to your blessings. Freely and fully, may we participate in your life of overflowing joy. Amen.  

The wind blows where it chooses, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.”  (John 3: 8)

We do not know where it comes from. We do not see where it goes. Yet, like a wild wind, your Spirit blows where it chooses, reenergizing and rebirthing everything in its passage. Pour out your Spirit on us, O God, and renew us and refresh us! Make us be born again as people of the Spirit! Amen

Amazed and astonished, they asked, “Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? 8 And how is it that we hear, each of us, in our own native language? All were amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, “What does this mean?” (Acts 2: 7-8, 12)

We often feel that we are speaking different languages. We often feel that we cannot understand each other. Send us your Spirit, O God, that we may understand each other. Pour out your Spirit on us, O God, that we may see visions and dream dreams. Amen.

O Lord, how manifold are your works!

In wisdom you have made them all;

the earth is full of your creatures.

When you send forth your spirit, they are created;

and you renew the face of the ground. (Psalm 104: 24 & 30)

Creator God, you sent forth your spirit and created the universe. You breathed your life into all living creatures and filled the earth with your glory. What a wildly wonderful world! You made it all, with Wisdom at your side. Let loose your breath again, O God, and renew the face of the ground. Pour out your Spirit on us and give us new life. Amen.

And this is the testimony: God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life. (1 John 1: 11)

You gave us eternal life, O God. Through Christ Jesus, you gave us a life that never ends. You gave us a real life, O God. Through Jesus’ words and deeds, walk and talk, you showed us how we are to live - what a true, rich, and abundant life looked like. May we have Jesus and have life. In him and through him, we may live a life of faith and hope, love and grace. Amen.

In him you also, when you had heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and had believed in him, were marked with the seal of the promised Holy Spirit. (Ephesians 1: 13)

Thank you for your word of truth! Thank you for the gospel of your salvation! Thank you for the seal of your Holy Spirit! May we believe in you and live our lives firmly grounded in this truth. Each moment of our lives, each step of our journey, may we live as people signed, saved, and sealed by your Holy Spirit. Amen.

I do not call you servants any longer, because the servant does not know what the master is doing; but I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything that I have heard from my Father. (John 15: 15)

You let us in on everything about heaven. You have made known to us everything about your Kin-dom. As your friends who are privy to your thinking and planning, may we join you in your “doing.” May we love as you loved, may we serve as you served. Amen.

For the love of God is this, that we obey his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome, for whatever is born of God conquers the world. And this is the victory that conquers the world, our faith. (1 John 5: 3-4)

Your commandments are not difficult. They are not troublesome. They are not burdensome. Instead, they bring peace and harmony. They bring hope and joy. As people born of faith, may we follow you and defeat the ways of this world. In faith, may we conquer the world of sin and hatred. Amen. 

There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear; for fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not reached perfection in love. (1 John 4:18)

Let your love mature in us and have the run of the house, O God. Deeply rooted in your love, may we live a life of freedom and joy. Fully formed in your grace, may we grow into a life of perfect love. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen. 

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinegrower. He removes every branch in me that bears no fruit. Every branch that bears fruit he prunes to make it bear more fruit. (John 15: 1-2)

Remove it, O God! Any branch that does not bear fruit, any branch that does not foster health, growth, and vitality -- remove it, O God. Prune us back and let new buds sprout. Prune us back and let new branches spring forth. Prune us back and help us grow healthier, stronger, more faithful, and more fruitful. Amen.

Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action. (1 John 3:18)

Love not just in word or speech, but in truth and action – this is what you showed us, and this is what you call us to. You gave your life for us, and you want us to do the same – to give our lives for each other. May we care and share, deeply and truthfully, as you did with us. May we love and serve, freely and joyfully, as you did for us. Amen.

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 12 The hired hand, who is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and runs away—and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. (John 10: 11-12)

There are so many “hired hands” out there who do not care about us, the sheep! They are only in it for their own interest. But to you, Jesus, we matter! You know us. And you care for us. You are even willing to lay down your own life for us. May we listen to you and you only! May we follow you and you only, that we may have life and have it abundantly. Amen.

But friends, that’s exactly who we are: children of God. And that’s only the beginning. Who knows how we’ll end up! What we know is that when Christ is openly revealed, we’ll see him—and in seeing him, become like him. All of us who look forward to his Coming stay ready, with the glistening purity of Jesus’ life as a model for our own. (Acts 3: 2-3, The Message)

You call us your children. And you are saying that this is only the beginning! May we see you in Christ Jesus, O God. And, seeing, may we become like him. With the purity of his life as a model, may we grow more loving and more holy each day. Looking forward to your Coming, may we stay ready. Amen.

“Now it’s time to change your ways! Turn to face God so he can wipe away your sins, pour out showers of blessing to refresh you, and send you the Messiah he prepared for you, namely, Jesus. (Acts 3:19, The Message)

Wipe it away, O God, our shame and guilt, regrets and disappointments! Wipe it away, O God, our fear and doubt, remorse and grief! Wipe it all away, O God, anything that binds, distorts, or diminishes us! Pour out your blessings upon us that we may be refreshed and begin anew. In the name of our Risen Lord we pray. Amen.

Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. (John 20: 21-22) 

Breathe on us, O Christ, and fill us with life anew. Breathe on us, O Christ, until our hearts are pure and that our will is one with yours. Breathe on us, O Christ, that we may receive your Spirit and love the way you love. In your name and Spirit we pray. Amen.

Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe.” (John 10:27)

O Crucified and Risen One!  You want us to see your wounds. You want us to touch them and feel them, for in your wounds is our healing. In our moments of pain and anguish, may we remember your wounded body and find strength to carry on. In our moments of doubt and fear, may we remember your love shown in your suffering and death and believe. Amen.

And very early on the first day of the week, when the sun had risen, they went to the tomb. They had been saying to one another, “Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance to the tomb?” (Mark 16: 2-3)

Who will roll away the stone for us, we often wonder - the stone of fear, the stone of doubt, the stone of pain, the stone of grief, the stone of remorse… Roll it away, O God, whatever it is! Roll it away and unleash the power of resurrection life for us! In the name of our Risen Lord we pray. Amen.

The stone the builders rejected

has become the cornerstone;

the Lord has done this,

and it is marvelous in our eyes.

(Psalm 118: 22-23)

Somewhere along the way to the cross, they rejected you. They betrayed, denied, and deserted you. Yet, you rose from the dead and became the rock of our salvation. Yes, you are the cornerstone of our faith! May we rejoice in these your marvelous deeds. May we rise with you as witnesses of your Resurrection life. Amen.

Jesus Weeps

As he came near and saw the city, he wept over it. (Luke 19: 41)

O Christ, you wept. With a broken and aching heart, you wept. Your grief was so raw, and your love, so tender. You knew what was waiting for you - rejection, betrayal, denial, and desertion. Yet, you did not stop loving. You did not turn away. We weep with you, O Christ, for it is for our sin that you bore the cross. We weep with you, O Christ, longing for your redeeming grace and a new and transformed life. Amen.

Jesus Anointed at Bethany

While he was at Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he sat at the table, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very costly ointment of nard, and she broke open the jar and poured the ointment on his head. (Mark 14:3)

May we be like the nameless woman, recognizing Jesus for who he truly is. May we be like the nameless woman, honoring him with all we have and every fiber of our being. May we be like the nameless woman, breaking open our hearts to your love and grace. May we be like the nameless woman. Amen.

Very truly, I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. 25 Those who love their life lose it, and those who hate their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. (John 12: 24-25) 

May we be a grain of wheat that falls into the earth and dies to the world. May we be a grain of wheat that is buried to the ground, but then, sprouts and reproduces itself many times over. May we embrace your truth that it is in giving that we receive, in pardoning that we are pardoned, and in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen.

But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. (Jeremiah 31:33)

Create in us clean hearts, O God, and put a new and right spirit within us. Put your instructions within us and inscribe them directly on our hearts. You are our God, and we are your people. With the same grace and power that have brought us this far, renew us and replenish us now, that we may continue to follow you to the places we never thought we would go.

Immense in mercy and with an incredible love, he embraced us. He took our sin-dead lives and made us alive in Christ. (Ephesians 2: 4-5. The Message)

Rich in mercy, you embraced us with an incredible love. You took our sin-dead lives and made us alive in Christ. May we not get mired in the old and stagnant life of sin. Trusting and expectant, may we look up to you and gain life - a real, rich, whole, and lasting life. Freely and joyfully may we live, truly live. Amen.

12 Their hearts were bowed down with hard labor;

    they fell down, with no one to help.

13 Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble,

    and he saved them from their distress;

(Psalm 107:12-13) 

Sometimes, O God, our hearts are heavy and bowed down. Sometime, O God, we stumble, with no one to help us. Whatever our circumstances and however desperate we may feel, help us realize that you are always there for us, ready to forgive, ready to save. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Then God spoke all these words: 2 I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery; 3 you shall have no other gods before me. (Exodus 20: 1-3)

You indeed are the Lord our God. You are the one who brought us out of the land of sin and slavery. You are the one who carried us through these dark times of unknown virus – COVID 19. Help us stay the course, O God. Help us finish this race, with no other gods before us, but only you. Amen.   

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. (Psalm 19:14) 

Purify our hearts, O Lord, and restore a right spirit within us. Even as you fill your creation with the impulse of life, replenish us with your life-giving, hope-generating, and joy-producing spirit. May our lips be filed with kind and considerate words. May our hands overflow with your love and grace. May we place our everyday life before you as an offering acceptable to you. Amen.