The Daily Liturgy Podcast
Thursday, December 7, 2023
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
Merciful God, I confess that I have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what I have done, and by what I have left undone. I have not loved you with my whole heart; I have not loved my neighbor as myself. In your mercy, forgive what I have been, help me amend what I am, and direct what I shall be, so that I may delight in your will and walk in your ways, for the glory of your holy name. Through Jesus Christ our Lord: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 45:14-25
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: Luke 1:26-38
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord God, I adore you for the gift of faith. Like her father Abraham, Mary believed you and found favor in your sight. Thank you that you accomplish your purposes through the trusting, humble, faithful submission of your people.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 120
Prayer of Consecration
O God: this Psalm is a cry of distress, acknowledging that your people need deliverance from lying, deceitful, violent people. Sometimes I am TOO aware of the evils of the world; and sometimes I am not aware enough. So sharpen my vision today, and deepen my longing for your deliverance. Do not let the freshness of the morning, or the glow of health, or the present strength of my life deceive me into a false reliance upon my own strength. All these good gifts come from you, but they are not mine to keep. My hope is not in my own strength or competence, but in the promise that Christ has come and will come again. Give me grace today to follow the road that you walked, and to your name be all glory and praise, even to the end.
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, December 6, 2023
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
O Lord, I confess that my heart is restless. I have sought comfort and security in created things rather than in you, the Creator. I have suppressed the truth in unrighteousness and exchanged Your glory for lesser things. Forgive my sin, O God, and subdue my restless heart.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 42:1-17
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: Matthew 1:1-17
Prayer of Adoration:
O God: I adore you for your faithfulness to your promises. Christ Jesus: I worship you, for you are the offspring of Abraham; the royal heir of David; the one in whom all of God’s promises find fulfillment.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 25
Prayer of Consecration
Almighty God: today I entrust my body and soul into your care. Turn to me and be gracious to me; consider my affliction and my troubles. Remind me every moment of your care and companionship. Teach me to return to you in my thoughts and prayers again and again throughout this day, and remind me that you use every circumstance to draw me closer to you. I commit myself to your watchful care, claiming Jesus Christ as my hope. Give me grace today to follow the road that you walked, and to your name be all the glory and praise, even to the end.
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, December 5, 2023
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 of heaven and earth, remember me, cold of heart and impure, in your Kingdom. Deliver me from every ignorance and heedlessness, from pettiness of soul and stony hardness of heart. O Lord, save me from temptation; receive me in repentance; grant me pure thoughts; that I may love You with all my heart and soul and that I may obey your will in all things to the glory of your name. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 8:11-22
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: Luke 1:5-25
Prayer of Adoration:
I rejoice, O God, in your great mercy. To the barren, you bring fulfillment; to the hopeless, you give joy and gladness; to the poor, you grant abundance. I thank you that just as you answered the prayers of your servants Zechariah and Elizabeth, so you hear the prayers of your people today.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 80
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord, this psalm unfolds my family history. It tells the story of your work with your people; how you brought them to freedom, how you cleared a space for them, and then how they fell under the weight of their own sin. It’s punctuated by their repeated cry for restoration, and I echo that cry in my own soul. I add my prayer to the ancient prayer of your people. Restore us, O Lord! Your people are so prone to worldliness, to selfishness, to idolatry. Thank you that at the very moment when the story seems to fall apart in failure, a voice cries out in the wilderness, “Every valley will be exalted, every mountain and hill made low. Prepare the way of the Lord.” You sent your son to enact the magnificent restoration that your people need. We cried out, “Let your face shine on us,” and you sent Jesus, the radiance of your glory and the exact imprint of your nature, to bring us back to yourself. Glory be to God.
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, December 4, 2023
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
Merciful God, I confess before you that I have sinned. I have sinned in what I have thought and said; in the wrong I have done and in the good I have not done. I have sinned in ignorance; I have sinned in weakness; I have sinned through my own deliberate fault. I repent and turn to you. Forgive me, for the sake of my merciful Savior Jesus. By your Spirit, transform my desires, renew my affections, and strengthen my obedience, for the glory of your name.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 2:1-5
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: Romans 1:1-7
Prayer of Adoration:
O God: I worship you because you have called me to belong to Jesus Christ. And I thank you that you are bringing about the obedience of faith for the sake of his name among all the nations, through the glorious gospel of Christ.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 122
Prayer of Consecration
Gracious Father, this psalm calls me to turn away from the rush of the world and come to the peaceful house of the Lord. I answer that invitation with gladness, looking ahead to Sunday when I’ll gather with your people, but also grateful that I can enter your house now in prayer. Today, Lord, I offer myself to you, inviting your life to flow through me. Guide my work, and give me the capacity to attend to it, free from distraction. Direct my interactions with others so that I honor them as fellow image-bearers, loved and valued by you. Most of all, as I walk with you today, take me beyond outward compliance with your laws, into true friendship with you. In this psalm, you urge me to pray for peace, so I invite your peace to rule in my soul, in my work, in my interactions, and in the lives of those who love you all around the world. Let your mercy, O Lord, be upon us, as we have hoped in 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.
Saturday, December 2, 2023
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.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
God my Father, in my weakness and unbelief I have lived by my own strength rather than by the power of your resurrection. I confess my self-reliance. By your Spirit, so draw my heart to you, so guide my mind, so fill my imagination, so control my will, that I may be wholly yours, utterly dedicated to you; and then use me as you will, for your glory and the welfare of your people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 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: Revelation 1:4-8
Prayer of Adoration:
Almighty God: I bow in worship before you, the one who was and who is and who is to come. In you I find my beginning and my end, my source and my destiny. To you be glory and dominion forever and ever.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 127
Prayer of Consecration
O God: thank you for this direct frontal attack on my anxiety and restlessness! I admit my anxious toil; my rising early and staying up late seeking to build something stable and lasting. But apart from you, it’s all in vain. So help me commit my labors to you. Help me this evening to receive the gift of sleep as a gracious blessing from a loving Father. Thank you also for this Psalm’s unapologetic embrace of children and family. In a culture that both idolizes children and sees them as optional and expendable, may your church honor and welcome and treasure little ones. Help me do my part to encourage the families around me and to be a godly example to those younger than me. Fulfill your covenant promises to your people, so that when I am old and gray, I can rejoice in your faithfulness to the next generation.
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, December 1, 2023
Opening Prayer:
There is none like you among the gods, O Lord, nor are there any works like yours. For you are great and do wondrous things; you alone are God. Teach me your way, O LORD, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Merciful God: You created me in your image, with a mind to know you, a heart to love you, and a will to serve you. But my knowledge is imperfect, my love inconstant, my obedience incomplete. Day by day, I fail to grow into your likeness. I confess my failure to glorify you as you designed me to. In your tender love, forgive me by the mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ. Strengthen me by your Spirit to walk in a manner worthy of the calling I have received, for the glory of your name. Amen
Old Testament Reading: Ezekiel 34:11-24
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: Hebrews 10:11-25
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus: what joy it is that I can draw near to God with a true heart in full assurance of faith because of your work! I adore you, because as the great high priest you have cleansed me from my sins once for all. Thank you for your precious blood that has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 110
Prayer of Consecration
O God: this Psalm is the most-quoted Psalm in the entire New Testament, because of its clear focus on the Messiah. And so, Lord Jesus, today I bow my knee in recognition of your sovereign rule. The kings of the earth are no match for you; you will bring your righteous judgment against the wickedness of human empire and oppressive power. “Your people will offer themselves freely;” and that’s what I do even now, by bowing my heart in prayer. I am one of your people; I have surrendered to your rule; I have come under your wonderful dominion. Let me now go forth into the world with confidence, resting in the sure promise of your coming kingdom. With all your people, I await the day when your enemies will become your footstool. Until that day, I delight in the power of the gospel, which turns your enemies into your friends, and rebels into worshipers.
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, November 30, 2023
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
Merciful Father, although you have promised me everlasting joy, I am often lazy, apathetic, and hard-hearted. Deliver me, O God, from a slothful mind, from all lukewarmness, and from all dejection of spirit. I know these cannot but deaden my love to you; mercifully free my heart from them, and give me a lively, zealous, active, and cheerful spirit; that I may vigorously perform whatever you command, thankfully suffer whatever you choose for me, and be ardent to obey your holy love in all things. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 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: Ephesians 1:15-23
Prayer of Adoration:
Father of Glory: I worship you for the hope to which you have called me; for the riches of your glorious inheritance; and for the surpassing greatness of your power toward us who believe. Your greatness is immeasurable and your blessings to me in Christ are incomparable.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 100
Prayer of Consecration
O God: this psalm invites me to “serve the Lord with gladness!” And that’s what I want to do, today and every day. I don’t want to serve you half-heartedly, or dutifully, or begrudgingly - but with a full and joyful heart that delights to bring you glory. So today, let me serve you with gladness. Give me eyes to see my work as service to you, working heartily, as unto the Lord. Help me see every interaction with people as a chance to serve to you, honoring them as your image-bearers. And help me serve you even in the hardships, annoyances, and challenges that come my way today, responding to them in ways that please you. Fill my heart with gladness and my life with praise to you 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.
Wednesday, November 29, 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
Eternal God, my fear and unbelief run deep. While I may outwardly confess your salvation, inwardly I deny the power of your Gospel. I work to keep up appearances, but I neglect the weightier matters of the law: justice, mercy and faithfulness. Yet according to your steadfast love, you have forgiven me through the precious blood of Jesus Christ. Direct my path, Lord, that I may walk in repentance and humility before you and others. Amen
Old Testament Reading: Proverbs 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: Luke 23:33-43
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus Christ, Lamb of God: I adore you for the beauty and power of your sacrifice. In humility you received our judgment, our sin, and our scorn. Remembering your great mercy, I worship you as my Lord, my God, and my King. And I say with the thief: remember me when you come into your kingdom.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 95
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord, this Psalm puts before me both an invitation and a warning. It shows me two scenes from my spiritual family history: first, Israel united in joyful worship, fully alive to the goodness of God; and then, the generation who hardened their hearts in the wilderness. These remembrances lay out two possible paths for my soul. So help me respond with wisdom and teachability. I want to hear your voice today, and not harden my heart. I want to come into your presence with thanksgiving and with joyful praise. So in my heart right now, I bow down; I kneel before the Lord, my Maker. I affirm that I’m yours, a sheep of your pasture, dependent on your direction to keep me safe and secure. Keep me from going astray in my heart; align my inner being according to 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.
Tuesday, November 28, 2023
Opening Prayer:
Blessed are you, O Lord; teach me your statutes! I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. Deal bountifully with your servant, that I may live and keep your word. Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law.
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: 1 Kings 18:20-40
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 13:1-8
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I worship you because your words are true. Though the world around me is filled with upheaval and chaos, these are but the beginning of birth pains. You are the true Temple where the fullness of God dwells; therefore I know I have a refuge in you. I adore you, for in the midst of unrest, you will protect your people.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 92
Prayer of Consecration
O God: Make me like one of the righteous in this psalm, planted and flourishing in your house. I love the picture of a life rooted in you, always green and alive, always bearing fruit. 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. Draw my mind toward you in the morning and in the evening. I want to reject distraction and anxious meditation; I want instead to fill my mind with your word. I want to still bear fruit in old age, ever full of sap and green, declaring that the Lord is upright. Make me like a thriving tree planted in your courtyard, because it’s good for me to be near 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.
Monday, November 27, 2023
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise. For you will not delight in sacrifice, or I would give it; you will not be pleased with a burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Father, I come before you this day with a humble and contrite heart, which you will not despise. Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions. Against you, you only, have I sinned, and done what is evil in your sight. Wash me, that I may be whiter than snow. Create in me a clean heart, and renew in me a right spirit. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and give me a willing spirit to sustain me. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: 1 Kings 17:8-24
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 25:31-46
Prayer of Adoration:
O God: I worship you for the piercing conviction of these words. You are the Judge of all the earth. My love for you is reflected in my love for the poor, the weak, the lowly, and the lost. I adore you that by grace, you transform selfish people into those who care for the least of these.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 5
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord: “through the abundance of your steadfast love, I will enter your house.” Thank you that I have access to you and peace with you because of your steadfast love expressed in Jesus. Teach me to savor your steadfast love as I go through this day. In my inner world, I’ve lived as an orphan for a long time. I’ve taken care of myself by controlling others, using my power in unhealthy ways, or endlessly distracting myself. So drive a vision of your majestic temple and your steadfast love deep into my imagination. In Jesus, I’m completely covered by your favor. Please help me take hold of your love in my inner person, and let it overflow from me into the world around me, 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.
Saturday, November 25, 2023
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 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: Malachi 2:1-16
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: Luke 7:36-8:3
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I adore you, for though my sin runs deep, your forgiveness runs deeper. Though my debt is great, your mercy is greater. In love and gratitude, I worship you.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 139
Prayer of Consecration
O God: I take comfort today in your deep knowledge of me. There’s no place I can go to escape your presence; no place I can run to avoid you. You see and know the deepest parts of my being. This kind of knowledge is scary; but it’s also freeing. It means there’s no hiding from you - and no NEED to hide. There’s no escaping you - and no NEED to escape. You know me fully, and yet you love me completely. No fault, no flaw, no hidden weakness can drive you away or remove your love from me. You’ve sent your Son to forgive all my sin, heal all my wounds, and cover all my weaknesses. So today: search me and know me. Try me and test me. See if there is any grievous way in me - and if there is, root it out. Lead me in the way everlasting, and remind me that I am fearfully and wonderfully made.
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, November 24, 2023
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
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: Zechariah 13
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 7:11-17
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus: in you, God has visited his people! The reign of sin and death is ending; your kingdom is coming. With joy, I anticipate the final release from sorrow, mourning, and suffering. I long for you to come again in the fullness of your power and glory.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 116
Prayer of Consecration
O God: this Psalm is a great reminder of what true worship looks like. The Psalmist rehearses an experience in his life when he called out to you and you answered and delivered him. (There have been many such experiences in my life as well - the greatest, of course, being the day you saved me from my sin and united me with Jesus Christ.) In light of these experiences, the Psalmist asks: “What shall I render to the Lord for all his benefits to me?” And the answer is: “I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord.” I bring you the greatest glory not by trying to repay you; not by seeking to “give back” to you; but merely by rejoicing in your salvation and calling on you again and again! So today - I lift high the cup of salvation! Today, I call upon you - and I WILL call on you as long as I live. Preserve me and sustain me today and always, for the sake of your great name.
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, November 23, 2023
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
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: Zechariah 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: Luke 6:39-7:10
Prayer of Adoration:
I adore you, O God, as the secure foundation of my life. Thank you, Father, for creating me in Your image. Thank you, Lord Jesus, for giving 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 50
Prayer of Consecration
O God: thank you for your covenantal faithfulness. This Psalm speaks of those who take your covenant on their lips, yet disobey you and cast your words behind them. There are many such people in this world. Let me not be one of them! Help me hear the clear warning you offer to those who give lip-service to you, but deny you by their lives. You are not interested in external religion and dutiful offerings. The world and all its fullness are yours already; you own the cattle on a thousand hills. What you want from your people is loyalty and trusting obedience. So today, reveal to me any hypocrisy that lies in my soul. Show me any places where I’m “casting your words behind me.” Let the stern warnings of this Psalm bring forth a harvest of humility, repentance, and obedience - for my good and your 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.
Wednesday, November 22, 2023
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, all authority in heaven and earth has been given to you. I confess that I have neglected your command to make disciples. I have been content to keep the light of your gospel hidden. I have valued my comfort over your kingdom, my security over your power, and my reputation over your glory. Forgive me Lord, for my unbelief in the power of your Gospel and for my lack of faith in your promises. Jesus, ignite my desire for your coming kingdom, that my faith would be renewed and my hope strengthened. Let your light shine in me that others may see my good works and glorify you. Amen
Old Testament Reading: Zechariah 8
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 9:9-26
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus: I adore you for your mercy. You came to call not the righteous, but sinners. You welcome all who see their need and turn to you in repentance and faith. You are the Great Physician, and I rest in your healing mercy.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 87
Prayer of Consecration
God: this Psalm looks with delight on Zion, the city of God. And I know the Old Testament city of Jerusalem foreshadows and anticipates the heavenly Jerusalem. So I can join with your people throughout the ages and say: “glorious things of you are spoken, O city of God!” The Psalmist envisions people from Rahab and Babylon, Tyre and Cush, coming to Zion and being registered there. So today, awaken my vision for the people of my own city. I want many people from MY city to be represented in the city of God. I want them to know the hope and joy that is found in Zion, and in its King. So give me courage to be a faithful gospel witness to my neighbors and friends. May your kingdom come, and your will be done - in my neighborhood 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.
Tuesday, November 21, 2023
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 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: Isaiah 32
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 7:21-29
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I adore you as the only true, wise, and authoritative teacher. In your law I find life, and by your Spirit I know your guiding, abiding presence. Thank you, Holy Spirit, for helping me hear and obey my Father’s good commandments.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 29
Prayer of Consecration
Lord: today I want to ascribe to you the glory that is due your name. As Jesus taught me to do, I pray: “Hallowed be Your Name.” This world is full of counterfeit glory - people vying for fame and notoriety and power. But you are the only One who is truly glorious; your Name is the only one worth living for; your beauty never fades. You sit enthroned as King forever. So today: let your glory be always on my mind. Animate me with a vision of your kingly power and goodness. Fill me with longing for the people around me to know your glory and be changed by it. “May the Lord give strength to His people; may the Lord bless His people with 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.
Monday, November 20, 2023
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 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: 1 Samuel 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: Matthew 6:24-34
Prayer of Adoration:
Gracious Father, I praise you for your providential care for me. My anxiety cannot add a single hour to my life; and it is unnecessary, for you promise to provide for my needs. Thank you for the assurance that you will care for me in body and soul.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 23
Prayer of Consecration
LORD: today I worship you as the Good Shepherd, and I humble myself as one of your sheep. I confess that often I long for independence. I don’t want to NEED a shepherd. But I do! I am weak and finite and foolish; I wander and go astray. I need your rod and your staff to guide me. I need the loving care and gentle providence promised to me in this Psalm. So today, whether I lie down in green pastures or whether I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, go with me. Protect and guide me. Keep me from all fear. Let your goodness and mercy follow me today, and every day, and orient my vision toward that glorious future when I will dwell in your house 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, November 18, 2023
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.
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: Ezekiel 36:22-32
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 12:1-13
Prayer of Adoration:
Heavenly Father, I rejoice that in your Spirit I have been baptized into one body. Across centuries and cultures, there is one Lord and one Spirit. Thank you Father, for the mystery of the church’s diversity, grounded in your eternal and unchanging unity. Amen.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 139:13-24
Prayer of Consecration
Father, I thank you that your word reminds me of my great dignity as your image-bearer. All day long, the world tells me that I fall short in one way or another. This psalm reflects your deep love for me as it firmly refutes those messages. It reminds me that I am intimately known and intentionally formed by you. You reassure me that I am wonderfully made. The days that may feel empty or pointless have in fact been seen and counted by you before the earth was made. Remind me today that this is true not just of me, but of every human being on earth. So let me treat others today with the dignity and honor they deserve. Let me preserve and protect human life and flourishing in every way possible. Search me, Lord, discern my deepest thoughts and motivations, gently show me my futile ways, and lead me in the way everlasting.
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, November 17, 2023
Opening Prayer:
There is none like you among the gods, O Lord, nor are there any works like yours. For you are great and do wondrous things; you alone are God. Teach me your way, 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: Joel 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: Romans 8:18-27
Prayer of Adoration:
Merciful God, with all creation I long to be set free from the bondage of corruption. I adore you today because I am not alone in my waiting; the Spirit helps me, interceding for me with groaning too deep for words.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 139:1-12
Prayer of Consecration
Dear Father, at the outset of this day I invite you to search me and know me. Examine my thoughts. Know my words. Search out my path. You’re already intimately acquainted with everything that will happen today. When I am tempted to pursue satisfaction in things other than You, do not let me wander. Hem me in, behind and before, and let your right hand hold me fast. I may take the wings of the morning, or I might struggle in darkness, and either way you are there. Today my work may call me to travel great distances or to remain in one place, and either way, you are there. Lead me in the way everlasting. In Jesus name, 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, November 16, 2023
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: Jeremiah 31:31-34
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 2:1-21
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord God, like your servant Peter, I rejoice in the inauguration of your long-awaited kingdom. In your church you have united a scattered people, filling them with the new wine of your Holy Spirit. Like your disciples, Lord, renew my awe in your salvation that I may tell in my own tongue the mighty works of God!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 104:24-35
Prayer of Consecration
Some days I can feel the joyful spirit of this psalm, and Lord, you know that some days I can’t. 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 the day. Let me remember that, regardless of how things appear, you’re ruling in glorious power. Capture my imagination with a vision of you high and lifted up. Awaken my soul to deeper and more fervent worship today, so that my communion with you is a source of healing for me and blessing for others. Some day, I’ll gather with all your people to worship you eternally. Let the events of this day prepare me for the glory of that day. 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, November 15, 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
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: Numbers 11:24-30
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: John 15:26-16:15
Prayer of Adoration:
Father, in awe and wonder I consider the gift of your Spirit, the Helper, who comforts me and guides me into all truth. Thank you for this most wonderful gift. Amen.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 104:1-23
Prayer of Consecration
It does me good to meditate on your beauty, O Lord. It steadies me when I feel insecure. It clears my head when I feel chaotic and distracted. The psalm reminds me that you are an extraordinary being: clothed with splendor, dressed in light. The clouds and the wind carry messages of your greatness. The mountains and oceans move at your pleasure, and the earth is satisfied by the fruit of your work. And yet, along with your immensity comes your eye for detail and your loving awareness of very small things. The psalm shows us your sky and mountains, and then reminds us that birds build nests in your trees, and you see your people going home after a long day’s work. I love you for being the God of the big and the little.
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.