Wednesday, August 9, 2023
Opening Prayer:
To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul. O my God, in you I trust; let me not be put to shame; let not my enemies exult over me. Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead 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
Gracious and merciful God: I confess to you today my lack of faith. You have saved me by grace, yet still I try to earn your favor by my works. You have met my deepest need in Christ, yet still I doubt your fatherly care. You have given me your Spirit, yet still I walk according to the flesh. Forgive my lack of faith, and strengthen me by your grace, that I may walk with you in freedom, joy, and worship. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: 2 Kings 4:38-44
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 12:1-21
Prayer of Adoration:
O God: knowing you and being known by you is worth more than all riches and treasure. Thank you for changing me by your Spirit, so that I am able to love what truly matters. Help me to fear you only, that I may gain a heart of humility and obedience.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 82
Prayer of Consecration
O God: this Psalm is a cry for justice. How long must I live in a world where people judge unjustly and show partiality to the wicked? I long for the new heavens and the new earth, where all injustices will be righted, and all wickedness banished. And yet, I know that I am part of the problem; in my own affairs, I do not always judge justly or do rightly. So thank you for sending Jesus. His forgiveness pardons me, and his victory ensures that evil will not have the final say! Give me grace today to live between the already and the not-yet. Grant me the courage to work for justice and truth where I can, and the patience to trust you where I cannot. I pray today for all those who are afflicted and destitute; rescue them and deliver them from the hand of the wicked, for Jesus’ sake.
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.
