The Daily Liturgy Podcast
Tuesday, March 15, 2022
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
Holy Spirit of God: I confess today my neglect of you. I am not yielded to your influence as I ought to be. I walk in the flesh rather than in the Spirit, and as a result I bear the fruit of the flesh rather than the fruit of the Spirit. Gracious Holy Spirit, forgive my sin and overcome my weakness. Subdue my restless heart and overwhelm me with your presence, that I might hear your voice clearly, yield to your control eagerly, and bear your fruit consistently. Through Christ, our Lord: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Ecclesiastes 4
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: Romans 4:13-25
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord God, I adore you for your faithfulness to your promises. You give life to the dead and call into existence the things that do not exist. Thank you that you counted Abraham’s faith as righteousness; and thank you that you count me righteous by faith as well.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 19
Prayer of Consecration
O God, when it comes to understanding you, this psalm reminds me that the natural world is my first teacher. The sky above, the world around me - even my own backyard reveals your beauty, goodness, and power. The psalm shows me that my next teacher is your law, which offers a blazing vision of your people living well in balanced, right relationship with you. It guides me, refines me, and calls me to wholeness. It reminds me that your wisdom aligns the distorted places in my soul and makes me truly human. I’m not good at discerning my own errors, so I add my prayer to the psalmist’s: keep me from presumptuous sins today. Watch over the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart; make them acceptable in your sight. You see all, and nothing in my life is hidden from you. So search out and refine every hidden part of me, that I may wholly please you in all I do.
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, March 14, 2022
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
God of mercy, whose Son, Jesus Christ, beckons me with the wide embrace of his love: I confess that I have been a wayward child. I have disobeyed your commands; I have been deaf to your call; I have been cold to your love. In thought, word, and deed, I have hurt others and dishonored your name. In your great mercy, receive me again as your beloved child, not because I am worthy, but for the sake of Jesus, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 15:1-18
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 13:22-35
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus: I praise you for your resolute faithfulness to your mission. No amount of human cunning or political scheming could deter you from setting your face toward Jerusalem and the cross that awaited you there. Thank you that because of your faithfulness, I have been redeemed.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 3
Prayer of Consecration
O God: thank you for the way this psalm instructs me in times of uncertainty and fear. The psalmist’s enemies gather on every side, rising relentlessly against him. Yet he responds, not with fear, but with a radical confidence in the protective care of God. Salvation, he says, belongs to the Lord. And he lays down to sleep. As I confront my own stresses and anxieties, I thank you that you are a shield about me. I lift my cares and concerns to you. Be my glory. Lift my head. Let me sleep deeply, knowing that you sustain me and surround me with your salvation. Remind me that because I belong to Jesus, I can be at peace in the midst of my enemies, resting in your loving care. Finally, God: please break the teeth of the wicked. Deliver the vulnerable from those who would harm them, and look after all who are in need today. 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, March 12, 2022
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
Heavenly Father, I enter this day full of thanksgiving, because you have redeemed my life by your mercy and grace. I worship you for such a great salvation even as I come to you in repentance. Hear my confession, Father. Forgive me for under-believing your gospel and over-believing my worries. Forgive me for being slow to listen and quick to judgement. Forgive me for failing to love you and your church. Have mercy on me, Lord, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Ecclesiastes 3
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 13:1-9
Prayer of Adoration:
Sovereign God: I worship you for the justice of your judgment. You will not let the guilty go unpunished; yet you are patient, desiring that all should come to repentance. Thank you that your wrath is not arbitrary or random but is rooted in your eternal, unchanging goodness.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 132
Prayer of Consecration
O God: this Psalm celebrates your covenant promises to David. You told him, “One of the sons of your body I will set on your throne.” And I know that Jesus, the Son of David, inherits this promise and fulfills this Psalm. So today, I renew my submission to King Jesus, the one who has been crowned Lord of all. I confess that sometimes my obedience can be slothful, weak, and half-hearted. But as I hear this Psalm, I am inspired by David’s zeal for your house. He promised not to give rest to his eyes until he established Zion as your dwelling place. Likewise, let me be resolute in my devotion to you today. Help me diligently offer You my full and complete obedience, rejoicing in your rule and reign and purposing to serve you wholeheartedly in whatever comes my way.
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, March 11, 2022
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 God, in Christ you have adopted me as your beloved child. But I confess that deep inside my soul I doubt your love for me. Instead of being satisfied in your acceptance, I look for acceptance elsewhere. Instead of resting in your love, I am restless with fear, control, and worry. Forgive my lack of trust in your promises. Forgive my doubt of your great love. Let your perfect love cast out all fear, and free me to glorify and enjoy you fully. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Ecclesiastes 2
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: Philippians 3:17-4:1
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus: I praise you for your transforming power. I rejoice that because I am united with you, my citizenship is in heaven. By grace, I stand firm in you, and I await the day when you will transform my lowly body to be like your glorious body.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 121
Prayer of Consecration
God, today I lift up my eyes and ask: from where does my help come? My help comes from you, the one who keeps me. Thank you that today, no matter what I face, I can count on your sustaining grace to hold me steady, to give me strength, and to keep me grounded in your promises. You never slumber or sleep; you are always vigilant. In Jesus, you WILL keep me from all evil. Though momentary evils may be my lot, my future is incredibly bright. Though trouble, sickness, pain, and even death may come my way, none of them has the final say; for in Jesus Christ you have swallowed up death and given me life eternal. My life is in your hands. So today, whatever I face, let me rest confidently in your sovereignty and trust in your good providence. Do not let my foot be moved from the narrow path of faith and obedience.
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, March 10, 2022
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: Exodus 20:1-21
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: Philippians 3:4b-14
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, all things pale in comparison with the surpassing worth of knowing you. Through faith your righteousness is my righteousness; your power is my power; your resurrection is my resurrection. Because you have made me your own, I adore you.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 102
Prayer of Consecration
God, I praise you for your everlasting consistency. The heavens and earth will wear out like a garment, but you will remain. Your years have no end. Help me remember that most of what I give myself to in this life is temporary, transient, passing away. It’s inevitable that some of my energy must be given to things that are fleeting. But I want to give the best of my time and energy to things that are eternal: your Word, your people, and your kingdom. So help me today to prioritize your Word and your work. Help me attend to the children and young people around me, looking for opportunities to declare your name to a coming generation. Help me be mindful of the brevity of life, and live with eternity in mind. Arise and have pity on your people; build up your church, and use me however you will to further your purposes in the world.
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, March 9, 2022
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: Lamentations 1:17-22
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: Romans 9:30-10:21
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus: I praise you for being better than Adam; better than Moses. Where sin brings death, your free gift brings life. Where sin brings condemnation, you bring justification. Thank you for your grace which abounds for many.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 73
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, this Psalm reminds me that the prosperity of the wicked is short-lived. And I need to be reminded of that, because often the world doesn’t seem fair. The righteous struggle, and the wicked seem to prosper. But stepping back to view things from an eternal perspective, I see things with greater wisdom. Momentary flourishing is different from true happiness. Your justice will prevail; you set the wicked in slippery places and make them fall to ruin. And so I say with the Psalmist today: “Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you.” I say this in faith, because actually there ARE things on earth that I desire; but in my heart of hearts, I rest in your goodness. “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” In my weakness, you are strong; though my heart is pulled in many directions, you anchor me. Those who are far from you may appear to flourish, but real life is found in being near to you. So today, I remind myself of that truth, and I reach out in faith to embrace your nearness.
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, March 8, 2022
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: Lamentations 1:1-16
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: Romans 5:12-19
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus: I praise you for being better than Adam; better than Moses. Where sin brings death, your free gift brings life. Where sin brings condemnation, you bring justification. Thank you for your grace which abounds for many.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 27
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord: as David wrote this psalm, he was under military threat, with every reason to fear for his life. Yet he responded by preaching to himself that the Lord was his stronghold. He describes his enemies gathered around him, prepared for war; but instead of fearing, he sets his mind on the temple. He asks to see the face of the Lord. As I read this psalm, I invite this psalm likewise to read me, to act as my teacher and guide. O Lord, give me the grace to seek your face even when my heart is pounding and my thoughts are scattered. When I ground myself in your light and beauty, I find the strength to wait patiently for you. Strengthen my confidence that I’ll see your goodness in the land of the living. Teach me what it means to abide in you, so that union with you becomes my daily habit. Fashion my inner life according to the example of this psalm and help me practice honest, confident prayer when I’m afraid 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, March 7, 2022
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: Genesis 9:1-17
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: Mark 8:27-9:1
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I bow before you as God’s anointed King. Your claim on me is total, and as your disciple I submit my whole life to you. Thank you for the a salvation that is worth more than the whole world.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 10
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord, thank you that your word offers a spacious invitation to human confusion and complaint. As I pray along, I find myself learning to be more honest with you about my troubles, doubts, and frustrations. At the same time, the psalm grounds itself resolutely in your goodness and care, teaching me to persist in hope. These two streams flow together. My world isn’t very different from the one described in this psalm. I, too, see injustice and exploitation all around, seemingly unchecked. But before I deplore the sins of others, Lord, give me insight into my own soul, that I might deplore sin in myself first. I pray with the psalmist: “Arise, O Lord, and lift up your hand.” Let justice roll down for the oppressed and the fatherless. Purify my interior being, so that I might live and work as a citizen of your kingdom, with your ways alive and vibrant in my soul.
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, March 5, 2022
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
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: Ecclesiastes 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: 1 Peter 3:8-22
Prayer of Adoration:
I praise you, O God, for your providential care for your people. Who can harm those whom you have declared righteous? Who can condemn those whom you have given a good conscience? Thank you for the grace which saves, protects, and keeps, until the end of time.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 32
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord, this psalm rejoices in the relief of a conscience that’s completely clear before you. I’ve felt the freedom of dealing honestly with my sin and knowing that it is covered! Yet I confess that I seldom engage repentance with that kind of wholeheartedness. I’m prone to keep silent about my sin. My heart is stubborn and foolish. Lord, I long to live a different way, not isolated by sin, but enjoying the free-flowing communion of a clear conscience and intimate friendship with you. Help me to confess my sins to you more readily. Give me a humble and teachable spirit. Counsel me, and keep your eye upon me. Teach me the blessing and freedom of repentance. Help me to really comprehend the steadfast love of the Lord, which surrounds the one who trusts in you. With your help, I will cultivate repentance, humility, gladness, and joy in my heart 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.
Friday, March 4, 2022
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
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 worshipping 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 58:1-12
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: Matthew 17:1-8, 22-23
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus, I adore you in the beauty of your holiness and the power of your majesty. As the radiance of God’s glory, you have brought light to a dark world and life to people dead in sin. You are God’s beloved son; I will listen to you.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 25
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord, prayer is the ascent of the soul toward you; and I join with this psalm to lift my mind, my heart, and my soul upward. My natural instinct is to focus on the things of this world. I constantly give my attention to lesser things. I obsessively look for opportunities to escape from reality. I know deep in my bones that these things are cheap. Insubstantial. They really can’t bear the weight of my desires. Make me like the psalmist, whose desire and longing is aimed toward you. Use the events of this day - the good things, as well as the loneliness and trouble - to change my sense of what is worthy of longing, so that I lose my taste for lesser things. Sharpen my hunger for the substance, beauty and weight - the glory - of you. I know you are good in my intellect; teach me these things at the deepest level of my experience. Guard my soul, O Lord. With the psalmist I say, may integrity and uprightness preserve me; for I wait for 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, March 3, 2022
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
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: Genesis 2:15-17 & 3:1-7
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 4:1-13
Prayer of Adoration:
I praise you, Lord Jesus, for your obedience to the Father; for your strength in temptation; and for your resistance to the devil. Because of your humility, I follow you as my example. Because of your faithfulness, I love you as my King. Because of your triumph, I worship you as my God.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 6
Prayer of Consecration
Thank you, Lord, for giving me prayers and psalms that teach me to express repentance. I live in a culture that dreads even the idea of guilt, and goes to great lengths to self-justify. But there’s a deeper wisdom in repentance that allows me to speak the truth about myself to you. Knowing that you’ve already seen and made provision for my sin, I can lay my burden down. Even in my troubled state, I can follow the path of David, who didn’t hide from you, but knew you well enough to appeal for your mercy. Thank you that just as you heard his weeping, you also hear mine. As you accepted his prayer, so you accept mine, through the mediation of the Lord Jesus Christ. Where I need to make amends to others, help me do so. Where I need to change my actions, help me do so. Fill my inner person with the sense of your loving presence to an ever-increasing degree, so that my most familiar sins become alien to me. Make them bitter, and yourself sweet, 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.
Wednesday, March 2, 2022
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 Jesus, today I enter the season of Lent mindful of my sin, my weakness, and my mortality. I confess that I often avoid introspection, reflection, and mindfulness. I do not number my days or consider the brevity of life. So today, I invite You to humble me; to chasten me; to convict me. Bring me low in deep awareness of my fragile and faltering condition. May dust and ashes point the way to joy and gladness through union with your eternal Son. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Joel 2:1-2, 12-17
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: 2 Corinthians 5:16-6:10
Prayer of Adoration:
I magnify you, O God, because in Christ you have reconciled the world to yourself, and given your people the ministry of reconciliation. For our sake you made him who knew no sin, to be sin. In Christ, the old has passed away; the new has come!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 51
Prayer of Consecration
O God, this psalm is a cry of sorrow over sin and a plea for forgiveness. As I join my prayer to it, guide me into right repentance. Sharpen my conviction over my sin. Heal and restore the sensitivity of my conscience. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and give me renewed passion for total integrity before you. You are delighted by truth in my inward being; you want me to learn wisdom in my secret heart, so that I can know true authenticity and freedom. Wherever repentance is needed in my life, I welcome the searching eye of your all-knowing Spirit. It may be costly and painful, like bones breaking. But the psalm says, “let the bones that you have broken rejoice.” You’re not interested in showy acts of sacrifice; you love a broken and contrite heart. And you have promised to forgive all my sin through the mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ. So restore to me the joy of your salvation today, 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.
Tuesday, March 1, 2022
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
Heavenly Father, you made me for your glory, redeemed me by your Son, and sealed me with your Spirit. Grounded in this new identity, I make my confession before you. I grieve today the many expressions of my self-centeredness. I am self-loving; self-serving; self-protecting; self-righteous; and self-interested. The habits of my heart revolve around SELF; and so your glory does not shine brightly from my life. By your grace, forgive my sin and conquer my selfishness. Establish your Son as the king of my heart and the center of my life. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 26:16-21
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: 2 Corinthians 4
Prayer of Adoration:
O God: thank you for shining in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. That light changes everything. Glory to you, O God!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 81
Prayer of Consecration
Father, I see that I am like the Israelites in this psalm. Though I belong to you and enjoy your favor and blessing, I don’t always listen to your word. I have hard, stubborn places in my heart; places where I resist your law because I’m a rebel. Deep down I prefer to solve my own problems and keep my own judgments, holding parts of myself back from full obedience. I confess and repent. Please change me. Help me remember that you have demonstrated your trustworthy character and unwavering love with proof after proof. Soften my heart, Lord. I want to obey you. Satisfy me with your love. Let me listen to your voice and walk in your ways. 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, February 28, 2022
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
Lord Jesus, if I say I have no sin, I deceive myself and the truth is not in me; so I humbly confess my sins today. The idols of my heart are many. I have bowed down to false gods, and looked to them to provide what only you can provide. Forgive me. Free me. Deepen my sorrow for the wrong I have done and the good I have left undone. My comfort is found in knowing that you are full of compassion, slow to anger and abounding in grace. I trust boldly in Christ my redeemer. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: 1 Kings 8:22-30, 41-43
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: Mark 5:1-20
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus: I stand in awe of your authority over all things: seen and unseen, temporal and eternal. And I worship you for your merciful concern for human dignity. Thank you for freeing those in bondage to evil, and for standing in opposition to everything that dishonors the humanity of others.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 75
Prayer of Consecration
Oh Lord, with the Psalmist I long for the day when you will judge the earth with equity. You hold the pillars of the earth steady. You will surely hold me steady as well. My safety is not found in human strength, in powerful leaders, in stable circumstances. My safety is found in the steadfast love of the Lord. With all my heart, I look for the day when you return, bringing justice and restoration. Your judgment is such good news, because it means that everything evil will be toppled. You will bring an unshakable stability to this fragile and fragmented world. As I go about my work today, I will look forward to the day of your judgment - and I will live my life in anticipation of that day. By your grace, help me turn from all evil and selfishness today. Remind me that you love humility and goodness; you bring low the proud and the wicked. Search my heart, steady me when I face temptation, and remind me of your love.
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, February 26, 2022
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: in Jesus Christ you love me, but I have not loved you. You have given me all things, yet I have squandered your gifts. I have grieved you and caused hurt to others, and I am not worthy to be called your child. Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I am ashamed and sorry for all I have done to displease you. Cleanse me from my sin and receive me again into your household, that I might never stray from your love, but always remain within the sound of your voice. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Deuteronomy 11:18-28
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: Romans 3:21-31
Prayer of Adoration:
Almighty God: I adore you for your mercy in putting forward Christ Jesus as a propitiation for sins. In doing so you vindicate your righteousness, showing yourself to be just AND the justifier of those who have faith in Jesus. Thank you for your righteousness, and that by faith, I am counted righteous in Christ.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 57
Prayer of Consecration
Oh Lord, this Psalm is a cry for mercy. “My soul is in the midst of lions,” says the Psalmist - and then he makes clear that those “lions” are actually “the children of man… whose tongues are sharp swords.” I know what it’s like to be in the midst of conflict; to experience the sharp words and harsh responses of others. Thank you that your word speaks to this reality. Help me take refuge in you rather than returning evil for evil or insult for insult. Let me be like Jesus, loving my enemies and praying for those who persecute me. And let me do this not merely as a Christian duty, but because your Spirit is transforming my inner being and actually CAUSING me to love my enemies. Give me grace today to respond to whatever conflict or tension I experience with charity, mercy, and kindness. Ground me in your steadfast love, and grant me grace in my relationships with others, for Jesus’ 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.
Friday, February 25, 2022
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
Heavenly Father, with my eyes fixed on Jesus, I ask you to forgive my sins. Forgive me for hurting people I love by my impatience, by my irritation, and by my unkept promises. Forgive me for caring more about what others think about me than what think about me. Forgive me for being too busy to behold your beauty in Your Word, meditate on your mercies in Christ, and hear you call to me in the gospel. Have mercy on me, Father, in the name of Jesus Christ my Lord. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Deuteronomy 5
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: Matthew 7:7-29
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus: I adore you for your promise that those who ask will receive, and those who seek will find. You are willing to be found by all who seek you; and if I ask you for bread, you won’t give me a stone. Thank you for your gracious invitation to seek you and build my life upon you.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 47
Prayer of Consecration
Some days I can feel the joyful spirit of this psalm; and Lord, you know that some days I can’t. But regardless of my inner state, I honor you as the Most High, the great king over all the earth, the one who rightly deserves my wholehearted worship. Your word invites me to sing your praise, so bring hymns and worship songs to my mind throughout this day. Let me remember that, regardless of how things may appear, you’re on your throne ruling in glorious power. Capture my imagination with this vision of you high and lifted up. Awaken my soul to deeper and more fervent worship, so that my communion with you might be a source of healing for me and blessing for others. 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, February 24, 2022
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
Word of God Incarnate: you came to this world to accomplish salvation. By your grace, you call me to repent, to be crucified with you, and to be raised as a new creation. But I confess that often I do not live as a renewed person! I “go with the flow” instead of stemming the tide of sin. I allow the fruit of the Spirit to be choked out by the weeds of evil. Forgive me, for Jesus’ sake, and help me show evidence every day of your kingdom’s reign in my heart.
Old Testament Reading: Hosea 2:14-23
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: 2 Corinthians 3
Prayer of Adoration:
Holy Spirit: where you are, there is freedom! I adore you for your work of liberation. You are setting me free from the shackles of sin, transforming me from one degree of glory to another, by helping me behold the glory of Christ. Thank you for the mystery and majesty of your invisible work.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 131
Prayer of Consecration
Lord God: let this gentle image of mother and child rebuke my drive for power, status, and visibility. I live in a world driven by image and influence. This world insists that I play along, but when I do, it traps me in a false version of myself. So let me respond to the invitation of this Psalm. Let me say with the Psalmist: O Lord, my heart is not lifted up; my eyes are not raised too high. Let this prayer orient and simplify my inner life today. I’m endlessly tempted to occupy myself with things to great and marvelous for me, but in your wisdom you’ve limited my capacity so that I might understand my place as a created thing. Give me the inner disposition of the contented child resting with his mother. Let me love the simplicity of dependence and invisibility, because I’m known and enjoyed by you. 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, February 23, 2022
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, by whom all things were created and for whom all things exist, I bow before you in humility. Truly I have more than sufficient reasons to overflow with gratitude and thanksgiving. Yet how easily I default to complaining, whining, and grumbling. I acknowledge and grieve the entitlement and selfishness in my soul. Have mercy on me, O Lord. Free me for joyful gratitude and humble thanksgiving, through Jesus Christ my Savior: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 62
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 6:39-49
Prayer of Adoration:
I adore you, O God, as the secure foundation of my life. Thank you, O Father, for creating me for your glory. Thank you, Lord Jesus, for giving me your words to guide and ground me. Thank you, Holy Spirit, for transforming my inmost being, so that I bear the good fruit of righteousness.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 103
Prayer of Consecration
“Bless the Lord, O my soul.” This Psalm is an invitation to preach to myself; to pause today’s rush of activity and meditate on your faithfulness, O Lord. So let me remember what you’ve done for me: you’ve forgiven my sin; you’ve healed my diseases of mind and body; you’ve redeemed my life from the pit; you’ve crowned me with steadfast love. Today’s labor may involve small, ordinary tasks, or great influence and responsibility. Either way, as I work, I’ll fix my soul on your steadfast love which stretches from everlasting to everlasting. I know my days are like the grass, and my frame is made from dust. But Your steadfast love endures forever. With all creation, I will bless you, Lord, and live for Your kingdom and 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.
Tuesday, February 22, 2022
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
Almighty God: to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid. Cleanse the thoughts of my heart by the working of your Holy Spirit, that I may perfectly love you, joyfully obey you, and worthily magnify your holy name, through Christ, our Lord: 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 Corinthians 13
Prayer of Adoration:
God, I adore you for Your love: the love you possess in and of yourself, and the love you’ve poured out on me in your Son. Your love for me in Christ is eternal and transforming. Thank you for the hope of seeing clearly what I now see only dimly, and knowing fully even as I am fully known.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 92
Prayer of Consecration
Make me like one of the righteous in this psalm, Lord, planted and flourishing in your house. I love the picture of a life rooted in you: always green and alive, always fruitful, always pouring out praise to you. The psalm lays out a pattern for me as I seek deeper knowledge of you: I will declare your love in the morning, and meditate on your faithfulness at night. Help me live with this rhythm, with my inner person continually oriented toward you. This grounds me in your character and breaks old patterns of anxious thought. I don’t want my soul to atrophy under a burden of fear, stress, and self-reliance. I want instead to fill my mind with you. So make your word my delight, and let me be like a thriving tree planted in your courts. 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, February 21, 2022
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 before you today not in penitent fear but in repentant faith. Because you have raised me up with Christ, I now humble myself before you. I confess that I have been proud, attempting to live an autonomous life and believing the lie of self-sufficiency. I have avoided Jesus by treasuring other things more than you and your kingdom. Have mercy on me today, O Lord my God, and empower me for greater trust, submission, and obedience, through Christ my Savior: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 49:8-16
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: Mark 4:21-41
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I adore you for the glory of your kingdom. Though it often appears small, hidden, and scattered, one day your power and glory will be fully revealed. Thank you for the hope of your coming kingdom.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 67
Prayer of Consecration
Thank you, Lord, for the invitation to rejoice in your goodness. With the psalmist I pray: let your face shine on your people today! Be gracious to us. Bless us. Let your deep wisdom, abundant provision, and steadfast love be known among the nations. When you come to judge with equity, you will crush oppression and injustice. You will do away with evil uses of power. You will guide the nations. Until that day, help me use my own resources to reflect your goodness in my corner of the world. Keep me from all sin, and from any compromise that would dull my influence for you. Help me enjoy your blessing on me, and extend that blessing 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.