The Daily Liturgy Podcast
Thursday, May 16, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Holy Spirit: because of my union with Christ, you dwell within me. Yet I confess that I still live according to the flesh. I do not live in conscious dependence upon you. I do not walk in vital communion with you. I am self-reliant and self-trusting, more defined by this age than by the age to come. Forgive me, Gracious Father, for neglecting the gift of your Spirit. Today, fill me afresh with the Spirit’s presence. Revive my soul. Renew my zeal. Release your power in me, for the glory of Your name.
Old Testament Reading: Joel 1
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Revelation 21:1-22:5
Prayer of Adoration:
Father, this portrait of a new heaven and a new earth fills me with joy and hope. I long for the New Jerusalem. One day death and grief and pain will be no more; one day your church will be perfected and adorned as Jesus’ bride. Thank you for the glorious future that awaits your people!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 67
Prayer of Consecration
God: this Psalm unfolds the RIGHT way to ask for blessing. Would you bless us and make your face shine upon us, SO THAT your name will be known on earth, and your saving power among all nations! Forgive me, Father, for the selfish way I sometimes ask for blessings that are really about me and not about you. Would you prosper and strengthen your church; would you give blessing to your people, so that YOU are seen to be beautiful and good. And give me, Father, the same passion the Psalmist has for your name to be praised and feared. Help me long for every one of my neighbors and friends to know and worship Jesus. Bring specific people to mind now, that I might lift them up before you and pray for their salvation.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Wednesday, May 15, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, God of my salvation, every day I call upon you, in the morning my prayer comes before you. Incline your ear to my cry! For my soul is full of troubles, and my strength fails. Renew me each morning with your steadfast love, that I may rejoice and be glad all my days.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Almighty God: you have commanded me to love my neighbor as myself. But today, as I contemplate my lack of love, I am humbled to the dust. Too often, I avoid others when they bother me. I ignore others when they don’t interest me. I use others when they benefit me. I reject others when they sin against me. My love is shallow and self-serving. Forgive me, O God. Thank you that in Christ, you have loved me with a love incomprehensible. May your love fill me, and transform me, for the glory of your name. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 60
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Revelation 7:9-17
Prayer of Adoration:
God, I bow in reverence, for my deepest desire is to worship you. I long for the day when your saints, cleansed, vindicated, and triumphant, will stand before your throne and praise you. In anticipation of that day, I cry out: blessing and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and might be to our God forever and ever! Amen.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 53
Prayer of Consecration
O God: this Psalm serves as both a comfort and a warning. It is a comfort because it reminds me that you look down from heaven and see the complexity of each human heart. You know who seeks you, and who hates you. It is a warning because it reminds me of the danger of foolishness. The fool says in his heart, “There is no God” - and his stubbornness leads him into sin and rebellion. In light of this warning, I humbly ask that you would give me the grace to continually seek after you and walk closely with you. Keep me from foolishness. Ground my soul in your steadfast love and strengthen me in the hope of salvation. Thank you that salvation for Israel HAS come out of Zion: his name is Jesus Christ, and in Him God has restored the fortunes of his people. Let Jacob rejoice, and let Israel be glad!
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Tuesday, May 14, 2024
Opening Prayer:
Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Almighty God: I cannot keep silent about my sin; when I do, my bones waste away and your hand is heavy upon me. So I will acknowledge my sin to you, and I will not cover my iniquity. Today, I acknowledge the sin of ENTITLEMENT. I live with a demanding spirit that grabs, clutches, and expects, rather than with a generous spirit that thanks you and blesses others. Forgive me, O Lord, by the mercy of Jesus, who did not regard equality with you as something to be grasped, but emptied himself that I might be filled. Fill me up today with the freedom and joy of grace, for Your name’s sake: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Zechariah 14
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Colossians 1:1-21
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I adore you as the exalted, preeminent, ruler of everything. All things were created through you and for you; in you everything holds together. I worship you as the head of the church, the firstborn of all creation, the image of the invisible God.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 47
Prayer of Consecration
God: you are King over all the earth, and I rejoice in you. In you, evil is subdued, sin is defeated, and death itself has died. The true king is on the throne - and because of that, Lord, I know I have nothing to fear! So today, I ask that you would help me to live fully in light of this reality. Allow my emotions, thoughts, attitudes, and actions to align with the truth of your sovereign rule. May I be fully submitted to King Jesus, and may my life be saturated with His peace and joy and happiness. Amen.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Monday, May 13, 2024
Opening Prayer:
Lord God Almighty: Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law. Open my ears, that I may tremble at your Word. Open my lips, that my mouth may declare your praise. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation. For you I wait all the day long.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Lord Jesus, I confess to you the shallowness of my repentance. I am content to deal with surface sins, rather than exploring the dark contours of my inner being. I am content to offer words of repentance, rather than bringing forth the fruit of repentance. Humble me greatly today. Reveal to me the depth of my depravity and the strength of my idolatry, that I may drink more deeply of your mercy and delight more fully in the beauty of Jesus Christ my Savior. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Zechariah 12:1-13:1
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Ephesians 2:11-22
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus Christ, I worship you, for you are our peace. You have united the separated and reconciled the alienated. You have welcomed us into your household and made us citizens of your kingdom. Thank you for the deep unity that you bring to your people.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 23
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, you are my shepherd. I am a sheep in your flock, in constant need of your care, direction, and guidance. In the midst of this day, I will trust you to lead me to green pastures and still waters. I will follow you in the paths of righteousness. If I find myself in the valley of the shadow of death today - suffering in body, mind, or circumstance - help me to fear no evil. Remind me that even there, you are with me. If I face enemies today, remind me that you are so powerful and good that you prepare a table for me in their presence. I need not fear, because your goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Saturday, May 11, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, you have searched me and known me. You know my thoughts before I think them. You know my words before I speak them. You know my past, my present, and my future. Awaken me now, to seek you while you may be found, to call upon you while you are near, and to live a life that brings glory to your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Almighty God, in whom we live and move and have our being, you have made us for yourself, so that our hearts are restless until they rest in you. Yet in my foolishness I have not trusted you, nor rested in my election as your beloved child. I confess my unbelief. Lord, grant me purity of heart and strength of purpose. Let no selfish passion hinder me from knowing your will, nor weakness from doing your will. In your light may I see light, and in your service find perfect freedom; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Old Testament Reading: Obadiah
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Revelation 5
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus Christ, I join my voice with the heavenly beings to proclaim your worth. Worthy are you, for by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God. All glory, honor, and dominion belong to you!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 136
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, fill my mind with the rhythm of this psalm today, so that it sinks deeply into my soul. Your steadfast love endures forever. I can’t diminish your love; I can’t escape your love; I can’t cause your love to cease. Because I’m united with Christ, there’s nothing that can ever separate me from your love. Fill my heart with this truth. Saturate my mind with this truth. Ground my being in this truth. Let me internalize it, chew on it, meditate on it, and sing it to myself, so that it’s as native to me as my own heartbeat. Let me be so deeply moved and affected by your steadfast love for me that my heart is filled with love for you in return. Your steadfast love endures forever; therefore I have hope and peace.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Friday, May 10, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, you have said, “Seek my face.”My heart says to you, “Your face, Lord, do I seek.” Do not hide your face from me. Do not turn me away in anger. Teach me your ways, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
God of Truth: I confess today the sin of Dishonesty. Rather than walking in the light, I have walked in darkness. My mind has conceived deceit, my lips have uttered falsehood, my heart has been cold toward the truth. In your mercy, forgive me. And remind me that because Jesus died for me, I need not be ashamed, but can freely admit all my faults and failures. My hope is not in my own goodness, but in your mercy to me through Jesus Christ. By Your Spirit, help me speak truth and walk in light today. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Zephaniah 3:14-20
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Revelation 1:1-18
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, who was and is and is to come, I fall down in adoration before you. You are God’s faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. I bow low before your majesty and glory.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 118
Prayer of Consecration
I thank you, Lord, that your steadfast love endures forever. Thank you that you’re on my side, that you answer me and set me free. When I feel pressed by temptation today, let me call on you for help. When I feel weary with my work today, let me proclaim that the Lord is my strength. When I must fight for joy today, let me remember the glad songs of salvation. This is the day that the Lord has made; I will rejoice and be glad in it. Thank you Lord, that you are good and your steadfast love endures forever. All of this glorious abundance is mine because of Jesus, the stone that the builders rejected. In his death, he became the cornerstone, so that I could be a living stone built up in the house of God. Expand my capacity for awe, delight, and celebration, so that I can say from the heart: this is the Lord’s doing, and it’s marvelous!
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Thursday, May 9, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Lord God, although I have been raised with Christ, I have failed to put to death the sin in my heart. I have become complacent and self-satisfied. I have willfully ignored the sin that lingers in my life. Of this I repent and ask for your mercy. Direct me, O Lord, in all my doings with your gracious favor, and further me with your continual help; that in all my works begun, continued, and ended in you, I may glorify your holy Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Micah 7
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Luke 24:36-53
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus: on this Ascension Day, I adore you as the One who not only rose from death, but ascended to heaven, and now sits at the right hand of the Father Almighty. Your ascension is proof of your victory and a prelude of your glory. Thank you that you live to make intercession for me.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 115
Prayer of Consecration
Oh Lord, it does me good to meditate on your glory. The world offers me many idols to worship: possessions, money, safety, power, entertainment, pleasure, and platform. But as this psalm says, those gods can’t do anything for me. They prove useless to meet the deeper needs of my soul. Worshiping them diminishes me and enslaves me. Rather than giving my heart to them, I will trust in the Lord today. The Lord blesses those who fear him, both the small and the great. Help me smash my idols and give glory to you, Lord, for your name’s sake. Amen.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Wednesday, May 8, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, God of my salvation, every day I call upon you, in the morning my prayer comes before you. Incline your ear to my cry! For my soul is full of troubles, and my strength fails. Renew me each morning with your steadfast love, that I may rejoice and be glad all my days.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Living God, I confess today my deep tendency to pretend and perform. Rather than resting in the righteousness of Christ, I try to earn your favor through what I do. And when I fail to live up to your standard, I hide and pretend rather than running to the cross of Christ. In this pattern of pride and unbelief, I am weary. And so I come to you, knowing that I do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with my weakness. I have one who was tempted in every way, yet without sin. So let me draw near to the throne of grace with confidence, that I may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Strengthen me by your Spirit to live in the good of the gospel, today and always. Amen
Old Testament Reading: Jonah 1:17-2:10
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Ephesians 1:15-23
Prayer of Adoration:
Father of glory, I adore you for the immeasurable greatness of your power toward us who believe. Lord Jesus, I worship you as the name above every name - the one who has all rule and authority. Holy Spirit, I honor you as the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, who reveals the glory of Christ and seals those who belong to him. Thank you, holy Trinity, for your overflowing grace and glory.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 98
Prayer of Consecration
As I walk with you, Lord, into this very ordinary day, I look ahead to the glorious day of your kingdom. This psalm is a window into the new heavens and the new earth, when all of creation is restored and all of humanity healed. Your people will celebrate your glory forever, because in your justice, you’ll reveal, judge, and restore. Nothing has been lost that will not be found in you. Nothing has been broken that will not be healed in you. You’ll mend us completely. You’ll renew the earth. You’ll judge with righteousness and equity. So today, let me live in anticipation of your coming kingdom. Fill me with hope, ground me in grace, and let me overflow with love. Help me be fully obedient to you, that my life might display to others the beauty and goodness of your rule and reign.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Tuesday, May 7, 2024
Opening Prayer:
Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner. For although you have forgiven my sin, I have not forgiven those who sin against me. Inwardly, I harbor bitterness, resentment, and anger. Lift my eyes to your cross, Lord Jesus, that in remembrance of your salvation I would be freed from all resentment. Moreover, purify my thoughts and protect me from biting, sarcastic words. Help me to love and forgive others as you have loved and forgiven me, to the glory of your name. Amen
Old Testament Reading: Proverbs 9
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 1 Peter 5:1-11
Prayer of Adoration:
God of all grace: I worship you because you have called me to your eternal glory in Christ. I long for the day when you will restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish your people. To you be dominion forever and ever!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 74
Prayer of Consecration
God: this Psalm captures the tension of living in the now and the not yet. On the one hand, it seems that your enemies have the upper hand; your people are opposed and oppressed, and your foes scoff at your name. On the other hand, I know that you have fixed the boundaries of the earth; yours is the day, and yours is the night; you are sovereign over all. So as I attend to what’s before me today, help me learn to live in this tension. Give me strength to live in a broken world, standing for what’s right, working for good, fighting against temptation, and pushing back darkness. And give me hope in your coming kingdom, that I might rejoice in your victory and not lose heart. Have regard for your covenant, and remember your people today.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Monday, May 6, 2024
Opening Prayer:
Lord God Almighty: Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law. Open my ears, that I may tremble at your Word. Open my lips, that my mouth may declare your praise. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation. For you I wait all the day long.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Glorious God: I confess today the great sin of Pride. I have thought too highly of myself. I have spoken boastfully, loved selfishly, and lived independently. Forgive me, and conquer my pride through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, who humbled himself to the point of death. Make me humble like him, that I might bear his image more faithfully. Amen
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 55
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 1 Peter 3:8-22
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I worship you in your humiliation and your exaltation. You suffered for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that you might bring us to God. Now, you are at the right hand of the Father, with angels, authorities, and powers being subjected to you. I adore you for your humility and for your victory.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 66
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord: This psalm reminds me that the day is coming when all the earth will worship you. So today, make my life an offering of worship to you. Let me not cherish sin in my heart. If I am harboring sin or protecting idolatry, show me, and bring me to my knees in repentance. Let me perform my vows to you and be faithful to the promises I’ve made. Thank you that in spite of my weakness and fickleness, you have not rejected my prayer or removed your steadfast love from me. When I am faithless, you remain faithful. My hope today is not in my own strength, but in the power of your steadfast love. So fill me with your Holy Spirit today, and give me the grace to walk with you faithfully and worship you wholeheartedly. Amen.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Saturday, May 4, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, you have searched me and known me. You know my thoughts before I think them. You know my words before I speak them. You know my past, my present, and my future. Awaken me now, to seek you while you may be found, to call upon you while you are near, and to live a life that brings glory to your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Almighty God: I cannot keep silent about my sin; when I do, my bones waste away and your hand is heavy upon me. So I will acknowledge my sin to you, and I will not cover my iniquity. Today, I acknowledge the sin of ENTITLEMENT. I live with a demanding spirit that grabs, clutches, and expects, rather than with a generous spirit that thanks you and blesses others. Forgive me, O Lord, by the mercy of Jesus, who did not regard equality with you as something to be grasped, but emptied himself that I might be filled. Fill me up today with the freedom and joy of grace, for Your name’s sake: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Hosea 11
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 1 Peter 2:13-25
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I adore you because you suffered for me, leaving me an example, that I might follow in your steps. Thank you for the beauty of your obedience. When reviled, you did not revile in return; when you suffered, you did not threaten. I adore you for bearing our sins in your body on the cross, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 148
Prayer of Consecration
God, the Psalmist calls everything around him to praise you. And indeed, you are worthy of extravagant praise! As I ponder this Psalm, I am convicted of my tepid praise; of my half-hearted worship; of my timidity to call the world to praise you. So today, awaken a hunger in me to praise you more deeply. And awaken courage in me, that I might unashamedly call others to join in praising you. The fact is, the world around me is FULL of praise; it’s just that people are praising the wrong things. They are exalting the creation over the Creator, and delighting in the gift rather than enjoying the Giver. Everyone praises something. So let me praise YOU today, with all of my being; let me lead your people to praise you, through my enthusiastic worship on the Lord’s Day; and let me invite the world to praise you as I boldly proclaim the good news of salvation in Jesus Christ.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Friday, May 3, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, you have said, “Seek my face.”My heart says to you, “Your face, Lord, do I seek.” Do not hide your face from me. Do not turn me away in anger. Teach me your ways, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Lord Jesus, I confess to you the shallowness of my repentance. I am content to deal with surface sins, rather than exploring the dark contours of my inner being. I am content to offer words of repentance, rather than bringing forth the fruit of repentance. Humble me greatly today. Reveal to me the depth of my depravity and the strength of my idolatry, that I may drink more deeply of your mercy and delight more fully in the beauty of Jesus Christ my Savior. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Daniel 12
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 1 Peter 1:3-25
Prayer of Adoration:
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! Father, thank you for the mercy you’ve poured out in your Son. By your living and abiding word, I have been born again to a living hope. In Jesus, I now rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 113
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, teach me to praise you with the same joyful exuberance expressed in this psalm. Enlarge my capacity to see you, admire you, enjoy you, and celebrate you. I praise you that you are seated on high, looking down on the heavens and the earth; this image reminds me of your glory and majesty. And yet at the same time, you raise the poor from the dust and the needy from the ash heap; this image reminds me of your closeness and your personal care for each one of your people. You are both transcendent and immanent; exalted and humble; majestic and merciful. I don’t have to choose between a God who is high and exalted, or a God who is present and active; you are both, and you always have been. Today, I walk into the world confident of both your loving care for me and your majestic sovereignty over everything. From the rising of the sun to its setting, may your name be praised - and may my life bring glory to you.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Thursday, May 2, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Holy God: Dust I am, and to dust I shall return. I am like a flower of the field, that appears for a little while and then vanishes. But I confess my tendency to live days, weeks, even months at a time with little thought for my mortality, and little consideration for eternity. Forgive my presumption and self-reliance. Humble me to the dust, that I might be ever-mindful of my frailty, and freshly awed by your eternal, infinite beauty. Through Christ, our Lord: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Jeremiah 31:1-14
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 1 John 5
Prayer of Adoration:
GOD: thank you that you have given us eternal life in your Son. I adore you as the one who is True - indeed, as Truth itself. There is no truth outside of you, no life apart from you, and no other way of salvation. I worship you - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 30
Prayer of Consecration
God: this Psalm is a great reminder that all sorrow is temporary. “Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.” This world is full of sorrow and pain; yet joy is guaranteed for your people, and it is coming as surely as the sun rises! So fill me with anticipation for the new heavens and the new earth. And in the midst of my current sorrows and hardships, remind me that you already HAVE turned my mourning into dancing. Jesus Christ has risen from the dead and called me to himself. Therefore, I am clothed with the gladness of salvation even in the midst of the sadness and trials of this earthly life. So today, whatever my circumstances, fill me with the joy of the Lord. Let me not be numb to the sadness and sorrow of life on earth; but let the joy of the Holy Spirit outweigh the burdens and concerns I carry. Fill me with gladness today, and let me be a source of gladness to others.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, God of my salvation, every day I call upon you, in the morning my prayer comes before you. Incline your ear to my cry! For my soul is full of troubles, and my strength fails. Renew me each morning with your steadfast love, that I may rejoice and be glad all my days.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Merciful Father, I come into your presence with deep gratitude, for I am no longer under the law but under grace. Resting in that truth, I freely confess my brokenness and my weakness before you. Instead of worshiping you, I have put myself at the center of my life. Instead of honoring others, I have withheld words of blessing and spoken words of harm. Have mercy on me, for Jesus' sake. By your Holy Spirit, awaken in me today passionate worship, joyful obedience, and wholehearted love for others. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 35
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 1 John 4:7-21
Prayer of Adoration:
Father: thank you for sending your Son to be the Savior of the world. And thank you for giving us your Spirit. I worship you for your great love, which you have made manifest by sending your only Son into the world to be the propitiation for our sins.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 22:19-31
Prayer of Consecration
O God: do not be far off. Come quickly to my aid. As I read this psalm, awaken in me a deeper longing for communion with you. You see my anxieties; you understand my concerns; you invite me to pour out my heart before you. So I bring to you now the needs and concerns of this day. I place them before you and ask you to intervene in each situation and to fill me with wisdom in each interaction. When I reflect on my life, I see your hand continually preserving me and providing for me. But it’s not enough to remember these things in private. I’ll praise you in the great congregation, joining with your people to tell stories of your faithfulness. And I’ll pray for the day when “all the ends of the earth turn to the Lord, and all the families of the nations worship before you.” Hasten that day, O God, through the proclamation of the gospel to the ends of the earth.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Tuesday, April 30, 2024
Opening Prayer:
Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
O Lord, you promise to work all things for my good, Yet I confess that instead of delighting in your grace, I find reasons to be unhappy. I have filled my life with busyness and scheduled myself into exhaustion. I have been quick to judge others and slow to forgive them. Open my eyes to Your glory which is all around me, and to Your love which is smiling through all things. Renew in me a sense of wonder in You and your good creation. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Ezekiel 37:15-28
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 1 John 2:28-3:24
Prayer of Adoration:
O God, what kind of love is this, that we should be called children of God? Thank you that you abide in us, by the Spirit you have given us. Thank you for your great love for us, which flows out of us toward one another.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 11
Prayer of Consecration
God, this Psalm speaks honestly about the reality of evil. There really are wicked people in the world - and in my life - who “bend the bow… to shoot at the upright in heart.” It’s easy to feel like no one sees; like no one cares about what is right or good. But your eyes see. You hate the wicked, and you love the righteous. You promise that the upright shall behold your face. So today, let me take refuge in you from the evil around me; and let me walk before you in integrity and righteousness. Let me not return evil for evil or insult for insult; but let me love my enemies and bless those who curse me. You see all things with perfect clarity. So let me live for your approval on the last day, with an eye toward pleasing you and bringing you glory.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Monday, April 29, 2024
Opening Prayer:
Lord God Almighty: Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law. Open my ears, that I may tremble at your Word. Open my lips, that my mouth may declare your praise. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation. For you I wait all the day long.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Almighty God, I confess today my worry and anxiety. Instead of resting in your sovereignty, I fear the unknown. Instead of bringing my requests before you in prayer, I worry and fret. Instead of letting you be God, I fight for control. Forgive me, O Lord. Help me to seek first your kingdom and your righteousness. Set me free from all anxious thoughts today. Give me contentment and peace, for you have assured me that if I seek your kingdom, I will not lack any good thing. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Ezekiel 37:1-14
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 1 John 1:1-2:2
Prayer of Adoration:
God: I adore you because you are Light, and in you there is no darkness. Thank you for the blood of Jesus, which cleanses us from all sin. And thank you that you are faithful to forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness when we confess our sin to you.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 2
Prayer of Consecration
Oh Lord, the nations rage today just as they did when this Psalm was written. Empires and kingdoms rise and fall. Rulers plot evil against your people, as they have always done. Thank you for the reminder that you laugh at the plans of the wicked. You have set King Jesus on Zion, your holy hill, and you have given the nations as his heritage. Nothing will hinder or thwart the spread of his rule and reign. I rest today in your strong sovereignty over all things. I do not know what trials may come my way, but I know who holds the future. You have established your kingdom forever, and someday you will judge the world in righteousness. So today, may I serve you with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Amen.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Saturday, April 27, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, you have searched me and known me. You know my thoughts before I think them. You know my words before I speak them. You know my past, my present, and my future. Awaken me now, to seek you while you may be found, to call upon you while you are near, and to live a life that brings glory to your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
God of majesty and light, all of creation testifies to your glory. Though your law is perfect, I have disobeyed. Though your revelation is true, I have disbelieved. Though your commandments are pure, I have not trusted you. Forgive me, O Lord, for my willful sin and for my hidden faults. Preserve me with your mighty power this day, that I may not fall into temptation. Straighten my path, and give me wisdom to discern your will, that you might be glorified in everything. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 25
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:35-58
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I adore you, for because of your resurrection, my labor is not in vain. Death has been swallowed up in victory; and mortality has given way to immortality. As the Last Adam, you have inaugurated the new creation, removing the sting of death, the rot of decay, and the power of the grave! Thanks be to God.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 141
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, I am reminded by this Psalm that prayer is worship. My prayer is like incense, rising up to you with a fragrant aroma. You are pleased by my dependence upon you. So today, give ear to my voice. With the Psalmist, I ask you to “set a guard over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips.” I know how often I am tempted to sin with my words. So today, let my speech be gracious. Even when others provoke me and speak evil of me, let me pray against their evil deeds rather than retaliating in sinful ways. “Let the wicked fall into their own nets, while I pass by safely.” Give me the courage and faith to let YOU be God, trusting you as my vindicator and protector. Like my Savior, let me return blessing for cursing, and let me pray for my enemies who persecute me. In this way, may I please you and help your kingdom come “on earth as it is in heaven.”
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Friday, April 26, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, you have said, “Seek my face.”My heart says to you, “Your face, Lord, do I seek.” Do not hide your face from me. Do not turn me away in anger. Teach me your ways, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Almighty God: I confess with the Psalmist that your law is perfect. The way of your commandments is the way of life; your statutes are full of wisdom. Yet I have violated your law; I have broken your commandments; I have dishonored your name. I ask your forgiveness; and I thank you for sending Jesus, who perfectly obeyed your law and died for my sin so that I might live to righteousness. By Your grace, fill me with Your Spirit, that I might walk in wholehearted obedience to you. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: 2 Kings 13:14-25
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:1-28
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I worship you for your resurrection. In your victory, the powers of death have been defeated. And now nothing is outside of your rule; everything has been put under your feet. As I await the consummation of your promises, I ground all of my hope, my security, and my joy on the sure foundation of your resurrection.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 93
Prayer of Consecration
Almighty God, this Psalm celebrates your kingly rule over everything. You are robed in majesty and strength; your throne is established from of old. It brings me great peace today to know that you reign and rule over everything - because this means you reign and rule over my life, and over the events and responsibilities that concern me today. All of creation has been established by your powerful word, and all things hold together in you. So as I go about my day today, help me act and live as a citizen of your kingdom. Help me trust your reign in situations and circumstances I can’t control; and help me extend your kingly rule in all areas which are under my dominion. I cannot do everything, because I am not you; but I can do something, because you are with me. By your Spirit, set me free from worry, stress, and fear; and help me be faithful to your kingdom purposes in my little corner of the world. Amen.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Thursday, April 25, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Glorious God: I come to you now in need of grace. Throughout this week, a war has been raging in my heart. I find myself looking to people, situations, and experiences to give me security, identity, and hope. I have sought from others what can only be found in you. Forgive me, and awaken me to the only glory that really satisfies: the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ, my Savior and Redeemer. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: 2 Kings 4:18-37
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Acts 28:11-31
Prayer of Adoration:
Almighty God: thank you for sending your salvation to the Gentiles. Thank you that the kingdom of God is going forward as your people proclaim the Lord Jesus Christ. Some will be convinced, and others will disbelieve; and you are sovereign in all of it!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 77
Prayer of Consecration
Father: thank you for Psalms that help me reach out to you in days of trouble. Like the Psalmist, I have known what it’s like to spend the night filled with anxiety about the future, or mulling over events from long past. And like the Psalmist, my deepest doubts often have to do with you: Has your steadfast love ceased? Have your promises come to an end? Am I beyond the reach of your grace? Your word comforts me, because it reminds me that these sorts of questions don’t threaten you. Your love embraces me even in the midst of my doubt and turmoil. My questions don’t change what is true; they don’t pull you down from your throne or erase your history of faithfulness to your people. Thank you for your acts of deliverance in time and space and history - the Exodus from Egypt, the parting of the Red Sea, the incarnation of Jesus Christ. You are not a concept or an idea - you are the God of history, who acts to redeem your people. So today, ground me in the narrative of Scripture, that I might be strengthened as I remember both your acts and your promises. You are the same yesterday, today, and forever - and for that, I give you praise.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Wednesday, April 24, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, God of my salvation, every day I call upon you, in the morning my prayer comes before you. Incline your ear to my cry! For my soul is full of troubles, and my strength fails. Renew me each morning with your steadfast love, that I may rejoice and be glad all my days.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Father, for your steadfast love, I bless you. For your abundant grace, I praise you. For your daily mercies, I trust you. I ask your forgiveness today for my willful lack of love. I have ignored those less capable than me; I have resented those who have wounded me; I have withdrawn from those who are inconvenient and difficult. By Your Spirit, overcome my sin and weakness, and fill me with overflowing love, through the mercy of Jesus Christ my Savior. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: 2 Kings 4:1-17
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Acts 17:16-31
Prayer of Adoration:
Living God, I adore you because you don’t need anything. You made the world and everything in it. You give to all men life, and breath, and everything. You are not unknown, hidden, and vague; in Jesus, you have revealed your character and your salvation. Thank you for assuring us of your promises by raising Jesus from the dead.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 56
Prayer of Consecration
Be gracious to me, dear Lord, at the start of a new day. Your word reminds me that you are near to the suffering and the oppressed, that you are FOR your people when trouble is near. I don’t know if I’ll face this kind of danger today, but I pray these words in solidarity with my brothers and sisters around the world who will. I also pray this psalm to prepare my soul, so that when suffering comes, I may instinctively turn to you. Thank you that in Jesus, I can confidently say: “This I know, that God is for me.” What a liberating thought! No matter what trial and trouble may come my way, in you I will trust, and not be afraid. Prepare me now for every challenge I will face today, and help me love you with every part of my being.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.