The Daily Liturgy Podcast
Tuesday, June 11, 2024
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
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 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.
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 21:8-21
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: Mark 3:20-35
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus: I praise you that you are the strong man, who has bound Satan and plundered his house. Your kingdom puts darkness to flight; your power destroys demonic influence and brings healing and life to those who are troubled.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 77:11-20
Prayer of Consecration
God: this Psalm looks back to the Exodus as the foundational redemptive act in history. You triumphed over Egypt; you redeemed your people; you parted the sea. Thank you that your redemption is historical - you accomplish real acts in actual time and space that change history! And thank you that the Exodus from Egypt foreshadowed a greater Exodus to come - the work of the Lord Jesus Christ to lead sinners out of bondage and into freedom. Today, help me expect you to show up in the actual history of my life. Open my eyes right now to the hints of your providence; the reality of your presence; and the possibility of your direct intervention in my life. Forgive me for seeing your great redemptive acts as things that happened “back then;” give me the grace to expect your activity right now, today, in MY life, and in our church. “You are the God who works wonders;” open my eyes to your wonders 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, June 10, 2024
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
Eternal God, my fear and my 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: Genesis 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: Matthew 10:24-42
Prayer of Adoration:
O God: you know me so deeply that even the hairs of my head are numbered. I am not insignificant or unimportant; I am “of more value than many sparrows.” I adore you for the way you know and care for me.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 77:1-10
Prayer of Consecration
Father: this Psalm acknowledges the reality of deep distress - the kind of trouble that causes me to lose sleep and that makes my spirit faint. Your people are always experiencing seasons like this. I have known these seasons; and if I’m not in one right now, then someone else is. Father, I ask you to make me especially mindful of the troubles of those around me today. Make me particularly sensitive to facial cues and body language. Help me discern when souls are downcast and discouraged. Allow my prayers today to flow toward those in your body who are troubled. And make me an instrument of your peace. Thank you, Jesus, that you are a Man of Sorrows, acquainted with grief. Thank you, Holy Spirit, that you intercede for the saints with groanings too deep for words.
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, June 8, 2024
Opening Prayer:
Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
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 19
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: Galatians 3
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus: I adore you because you redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us. In you, the blessing of Abraham has come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised Spirit through faith. Thank you for bearing the curse, that we might inherit the blessing.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 139
Prayer of Consecration
Father: this Psalm reminds me of how intimately you know me. You know when I sit down and when I rise. You discern my thoughts from afar. You formed my innermost parts while I was in my mother’s womb. There is no place I can go to flee from your presence; nowhere in all of creation where I can escape you. Your vast knowledge is both comforting and challenging. It’s comforting because I don’t have to pretend; but it’s challenging because I can’t hide. I confess that I don’t really WANT to be known this intimately. There are parts of me I’d rather keep hidden - from you and others. So show me today what parts of my life I’m trying to hide. Reveal to me where I’m trying to flee from your presence. And then, in your grace, chase me down and take hold of me. Search out my path, and bring me out of hiding. KNOW me, even where I resist being known, that I might be changed by your all-consuming presence.
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, June 7, 2024
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
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 Samuel 3:1-10
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 2 Corinthians 4:5-12
Prayer of Adoration:
God: I adore you for the great wonder of illumination. You have shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. And that light changes everything. Glory to you, O God!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 113
Prayer of Consecration
This Psalm begins with four simple words: “I love the Lord.” I meditate on those four words this morning, Father. On the one hand, this is a declaration of truth: I DO love the Lord. In another way, this is a plea for grace: I love the Lord… (and I want to love him more!). And in yet another sense, this is a reminder in times of doubt: I love the Lord (even though at times I feel distant and discouraged). I love you, Lord! And what do people do who love you? They “lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord.” So that is what I will do today. I will rejoice in your salvation, and I will continue to call out to you and express my needs. Let the people around me see me worshiping you. May my love for you be public, so that others can be encouraged to love you more.
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, June 6, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
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: 1 Samuel 2:1-10
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Romans 12
Prayer of Adoration:
O God: I adore you for the body of Christ - the church, in all her glory and beauty. Thank you, Jesus, that you died to redeem this people, and that you have graced each member with gifts that differ according to your design. Increase my love for your church and for each person within it.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 113
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, as I move into this day, I recognize that I am a worshiper. I can’t NOT be. My life is always proclaiming the value and the worth and the glory of something. And how often I proclaim the glory of lesser gods! This Psalm reminds me that YOUR name is to be praised. And so I will receive this both as a rebuke and an invitation. I confess not praising you as I should; and I renew my commitment to live today as a vibrant, joyful, unapologetic worshiper of you. “From the rising of the sun to its setting, the name of the Lord is to be praised!” So let me be conscious of you throughout this day, and let me worship you in everything: in the quiet moments and the chaotic ones, in my work and in my rest, in the glorious and the mundane. Blessed be the name of the Lord, from this time forth and forevermore.
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, June 5, 2024
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
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. By your Spirit, strengthen me today for greater obedience to you, greater delight in your goodness, greater trust in your promises. Help me to rest in my adoption as your child. 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: Luke 1:39-57
Prayer of Adoration:
God: I adore you for the miracle of the virgin birth, and for the obedience and humility of your servant Mary. Thank you that you exalt those of humble estate, and fill the hungry with good things.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 100
Prayer of Consecration
O God: I live in a world of self-sufficiency and self-determination. I live in a world that tells me that I am the master of my fate and the captain of my soul. So it is good to be reminded today of these simple truths: “It is He who made us, and we are His; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.” I am reminded of both my greatness and my smallness. On the one hand, it is you who made me; I bear your image, and therefore I am full of dignity and glory. On the other hand, I am a sheep of your pasture; I am finite and limited, and I need a Shepherd to guide me. So today, as I dwell on these truths, let me make a joyful noise, and let me serve you with gladness. May I be humbly confident and gently bold, resting in your steadfast love and faithfulness to me.
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, June 4, 2024
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
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 the 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: Exodus 19:1-20
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Mark 2:23-3:6
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus: I adore you as the Lord of the Sabbath, and I worship you for the power of your mercy. Thank you that your anger and your grief move you to merciful action! May my own anger and grief be more like yours.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 43
Prayer of Consecration
God, today I call to you: “Send out your light and your truth; let them lead me; let them bring me to your holy hill and to your dwelling!” Jesus spoke of himself as both Light and Truth; he is the one who brings me into your holy dwelling, and he is the one to whom this Psalm points. So today, I dwell thankfully on his salvation; and I ask you to continue to send your light and truth into my life through the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. Today I will face the need for wisdom. At work, at home, and in my relationships, I need your light and your truth to guide me. So Spirit: fill me today. Guide me today. Send out your light and your truth into all the dark and shadowy places of my life, and fill me with your wisdom and joy.
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, June 3, 2024
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
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: Genesis 18:1-15, 21:1-7
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: Matthew 9:35-10:23
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus: I adore you for entrusting your ministry to the Twelve disciples. Because you are the Lord of Glory, you can use ordinary, unimpressive people to accomplish your will. And that means you can use even me! I worship you, and I offer myself to you as a willing servant.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 42
Prayer of Consecration
O God, this Psalm is written by one who is cast down and dejected. And my own soul, too, is often cast down within me. This Psalm gives me language to speak to myself: “Why are you cast down, o my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Hope in God!” I confess, Father, that often I wallow in my discouragement rather than preaching the good news to myself. Help me to follow the example of the Psalmist, calling my soul to rejoice in you. And thank you for sending Jesus, the gentle Savior who does not break the bruised reed or extinguish the smoldering wick. Thank you that when I do not feel strong, courageous, or happy, I can lean on the strength, courage, and joy of my Savior. Today, I will hope in you, my salvation and my 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.
Saturday, June 1, 2024
Opening Prayer:
Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Almighty God: because of Christ’s blood, do not hold against me, poor sinner that I am, any of my sin, or of the evil that constantly clings to me. By myself I am too weak to stand on my own even for a moment. And my sworn enemies - the world, the flesh, and the devil - never stop attacking me. Uphold me and make me strong with the strength of your Holy Spirit, so that I may not go down to defeat in this spiritual struggle, but may firmly resist my enemies until I finally win the complete victory, through Jesus Christ my Lord: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Proverbs 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: 2 Corinthians 13
Prayer of Adoration:
O God, I adore you for your Trinitarian being. I delight today in “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit.” Thank you for being Three-in-One.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 99
Prayer of Consecration
God: this Psalm exalts your holiness. The Psalmist reminds me that you show no partiality: to the saints of old, “you were a forgiving God… but an avenger of their wrongdoings.” That phrase reminds me how the whole Bible points to Jesus; in him, you both forgive and avenge. Because Jesus bore my guilt, I can be forgiven. Which gives me even more reason than the Psalmist had to tremble, and to praise your holy and awesome name! Because “the Lord our God is holy,” I know that one day every wrong will be made right, and every sin brought to justice. Today, let your holiness move me to reverent worship and humble obedience. May I be holy, even as you are holy.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Friday, May 31, 2024
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
O God: forgive my doubting, questioning heart. Like those who witnessed Jesus’ miracles of healing yet spurned belief, I too have seen wonders, yet have hardened my heart. I confess the way my pessimism has caused others to doubt themselves and your Spirit; the times my criticism has wounded others; the times my dejection has dampened the enthusiasm of those inspired by your Word and work. O God, forgive me, and in your mercy, renew me, that with an open heart I may believe and never pose an obstacle to the faith of others. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 54
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 8:1-17
Prayer of Adoration:
God: I adore you because you are my Father and I am your child. You have adopted me into your family and given me all the privileges of sonship. Thank you for welcoming me into the wide embrace of your fatherly love.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 97
Prayer of Consecration
O God, it’s good to be reminded of your throne and your reign. You are the Lord of all the earth; you are exalted far above all gods. My rightful posture before you is one of humble submission and grateful reverence. You are not my buddy, my peer, or my servant; you are my Lord and my God, before whom I bow my knee and offer my worship. Yet in your great power and glory, you delight in doing good to your people. You give light and joy to all who find their hope in you. So today, let me rejoice in your reign! Let me give thanks to your holy name. Let me delight in the King of all the earth, who has also become my Father through the Lord Jesus Christ. May your name be highly exalted!
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Thursday, May 30, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
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 61
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 5:1-11
Prayer of Adoration:
God: I adore you for showing your love by sending Christ to die for us while we were yet sinners. Thank you that I have peace with you through my Lord Jesus Christ.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 81:1-10
Prayer of Consecration
Father: this Psalm reminds me of the covenantal dynamics of life with you. You have brought your people into covenant relationship, calling us out of slavery and into blessed union with you. You ask us to be faithful to that covenant by listening to your voice and walking in your ways. Like the Israelites, we have not listened to your voice. So thank you for sending Jesus to bear the covenant curses we deserve for our unfaithfulness. Thank you that He is the mediator of a new covenant. Now, by His grace - help me listen to your voice and walk in your ways! Help me see that your blessings ARE contingent upon my obedience! When I walk with you, I experience life and joy and happiness; but when I do not walk in your ways, I experience the grievous consequences of sin. So do not give me over to my stubborn heart; instead, empower me today for wholehearted obedience to you, that I might reap the blessings of covenant faithfulness.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Wednesday, May 29, 2024
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
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: Isaiah 6
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 20:1-23
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus: I adore you for sending your disciples as the Father sent you. You have given us meaningful and significant work to do! And you have given us the Spirit to help us do it. Thank you for the honor of being your called-and-sent people.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 33
Prayer of Consecration
God: I take comfort today in the fact that “the eye of the Lord is on those who fear him.” I don’t find myself trusting in kings and war-horses; but I do trust in the modern version of those things - political leaders, and strong economies, and self-sufficiency, and prosperity. These are false hopes; they are not you, and they don’t watch over me with the steadfast love and care that you do. So today, I will fear you and wait on you. Let your steadfast love be upon me today - help me know it and sense it and feel it in ways that make my heart glad. May my soul wait for you today, and may I trust in your holy 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.
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
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
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: Isaiah 48
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 3:1-21
Prayer of Adoration:
Father: I adore you for sending your Son into the world, that the world might be saved through him. Thank you for the majesty and miracle of the new birth. Thank you, Holy Spirit, for bringing me from death to life and from darkness to light.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 29
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord: I praise you for the power of your voice. You spoke the world into existence with words; your voice is powerful and majestic. MY words are often trivial and ineffective; but YOUR words do things. They break the cedars and shake the wilderness and cause the deer to give birth. And when I remember that the Scriptures are your Word, I am reminded of the power they have to give life and to effect change. Forgive me for treating your word lightly; help me desire it and delight in it and listen to it! Above all, thank you for sending Jesus, the Word made flesh. He is the Way, and the Truth, and the Life, because he is the voice of the Lord in human form. May I listen to Him always.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Monday, May 27, 2024
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
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 You think about me. Forgive me for being too busy to behold your beauty in 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: Genesis 1:1-2:3
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: Matthew 28
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus: I worship you because all authority in heaven and on earth is yours. Your resurrection secures your victory and proves your authority. I bow my knee before you and willingly submit to your commands.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 8
Prayer of Consecration
God: as I see the majesty and glory of your creation - the moon, the stars, the mountains, the oceans - I marvel at how small I am. What is man, that you are mindful of him? And yet, this is the wonder of your love - you ARE mindful of me! You have given human beings great dignity, crowning us with glory and honor and giving us dominion over the work of your hands. So today, help me go about my work as one who represents your majesty. As I work, help me see that I am extending your dominion over creation. As I encounter infants and children, let me hear their cries as expressions of praise to you. And as I fight temptation, help me to view sin as treason against your majesty and beauty. Help me live today in the glory and honor that you have bestowed upon me through the Lord Jesus Christ.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Saturday, May 25, 2024
Opening Prayer:
Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
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, May 24, 2024
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, May 23, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
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
This psalm reminds me of your wisdom and power, O Lord. I will sing to you while I have my being. May my meditation be sweet and pleasing in your sight. My imagination is filled with images of the sea: the ships going back and forth, and creatures teeming in the water. In ancient times the ocean was a symbol of chaos and darkness, but this psalm shows it as a joyful expression of your creativity. Holy Spirit, you not only fill the people of God and guide us into truth; you also sustain the entire created order. You bring life and renewal; you open your hand and fill your creatures with good things. As I go about my day, fill me with good things and help me to rejoice in you more and more.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Wednesday, May 22, 2024
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.
Tuesday, May 21, 2024
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
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: Ezekiel 37:1-14
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: John 14:8-27
Prayer of Adoration:
Holy Spirit, I adore you for being my Helper - the one who teaches me and brings to remembrance all that Jesus said and did. You give me peace in the midst of trouble; you dwell with me and are in me. What a marvelous mystery!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 67
Prayer of Consecration
God, this Psalm reminds me of the RIGHT way to ask for your blessings. With the psalmist I pray: let your face shine on your people today. Be gracious to us and bless us - SO THAT your way may be known on earth! As you bless your people, 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 and rule in righteousness. Until that day, help me use whatever resources I have to reflect your goodness in my corner of the world. Help me enjoy your blessings to me, and extend those blessings 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.
Monday, May 20, 2024
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
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 11:1-9
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: John 7:25-39
Prayer of Adoration:
Gracious Father: I have thirsted and found living water, and my heart overflows with the abundance of your grace. I adore you for the gift of the Holy Spirit!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 22
Prayer of Consecration
“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” O God, it’s impossible to read this Psalm without thinking of Jesus on the cross, crying out to you in his great moment of need. Like him, I know that you invite ME to cry out to you. You see my anxieties and understand my concerns. When I reflect on my life, I see that you continually preserve me, provide for me, and work out your healing power in me. But it’s not enough to remember these things in private. This Psalm says you are “enthroned on the praises of Israel.” It’s through publicly praising you that I lift you up and show your greatness to the world. So I’ll praise you in the great congregation, joining with your people to celebrate your faithfulness. From the patriarchs and matriarchs of Scripture to the believers I know personally, there is so much evidence of your grace. Thank you for your faithfulness to your people.
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.