The Daily Liturgy
Thursday, November 21, 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
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 I have ignored those less capable than me; I have resented those who have wounded me; I have withdrawn from those who are inconvenient and difficult.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 20, 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, 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 19, 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 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 18, 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 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 16, 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
Lord God, although I have been raised with Christ, I have failed to put to death the sin in my heart. I have become complacent and self-satisfied. I have willfully ignored the sin that lingers in my life. Of this I repent and ask for your mercy. Direct me, O Lord, in all my doings with your gracious favor, and further me with your continual help; that in all my works begun, continued, and ended in you, I may glorify your holy Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Deuteronomy 26:1-11
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 1 Corinthians 4
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, thank you for the ministry of the apostles, who were servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. And thank you for giving me guides and mentors in my own life, to lead me in the way of Christ Jesus. I adore you for adopting me into your family and giving me models to follow and imitate.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 128
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, your Word repeatedly reminds me that there is blessing for those who fear You. You honor and reward those who love you; you resist and oppose those who rebel against you. So today, let me live for your blessing! Fill my imagination with pictures of a life lived in close fellowship with you. Help me to open my hands wider, to receive the good that you pour out. Too often I regard my life with fear of scarcity. Too often, I allow myself to be robbed of a good and healthy satisfaction with your blessing. Open my eyes to the fruitful vine you have given me, and the olive shoots around my table. Expand my capacity for celebrating these gifts. And help me long for the flourishing and prosperity of your church. Amen.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Friday, November 15, 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
Living God, I confess today my deep tendency to pretend and perform. Rather than resting in the righteousness of Christ, I try to earn your favor through what I do. And when I fail to live up to your standard, I hide and pretend rather than running to the cross of Christ. In this pattern of pride and unbelief, I am weary. And so I come to you, knowing that I do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with my weakness. I have one who was tempted in every way, yet without sin. So let me draw near to the throne of grace with confidence, that I may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Strengthen me by your Spirit to live in the good of the gospel, today and always. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Deuteronomy 11:1-23
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 1 Corinthians 2
Prayer of Adoration:
Holy Spirit: I rejoice in the mystery of your ministry. You comprehend the thoughts of God, and you help us understand the things of God. You have given me the mind of Christ, that I may know the truth and believe the gospel. Thank you for revealing what no eye has seen and no ear has heard: the glorious things that God has prepared for those who love him!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 108
Prayer of Consecration
Oh Lord, this psalm reminds me that your steadfast love reaches to the heavens. Your faithfulness is so expansive and all-encompassing that it reaches the clouds. Sometimes this statement brings me joy, but often it feels more abstract than real; something I know intellectually but don’t easily experience. Give me the lively, wide-awake heart of David as I meditate on you. Let my heart cry out: “Be exalted, O God, above the heavens! Let your glory be over all the earth!” Let me long for you to get the glory you deserve, from all of creation; and fill me with your Spirit today, that I may bring you glory in my words, attitudes, and actions.
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 14, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner. For although you have forgiven my sin, I have not forgiven those who sin against me. Inwardly, I harbor bitterness, resentment, and anger. Lift my eyes to your cross, Lord Jesus, that in remembrance of your salvation I would be freed from all resentment. Moreover, purify my thoughts and protect me from biting, sarcastic words. Help me to love and forgive others as you have loved and forgiven me, to the glory of your name. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 12:1-9
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: Romans 4:13-25
Prayer of Adoration:
God, I adore you, for you are true to your promises. To the barren, you give hope; to the dead, you give life; to those who cling to your promises by faith, you give salvation. Thank you that you counted Abraham’s faith as righteousness; and thank you that you count me righteous by faith as well.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 47
Prayer of Consecration
Some days I can feel the joyful spirit of this psalm, and Lord, you know that some days I can’t. 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 13, 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
Glorious God: I confess today the great sin of Pride. I have thought too highly of myself. I have spoken boastfully, loved selfishly, and lived independently. Forgive me, and conquer my pride through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, who humbled himself to the point of death. Make me humble like him, that I might bear his image more faithfully. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 7:24-8:22
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Romans 4:1-12
Prayer of Adoration:
O God, I adore you for your faithfulness to Abraham. And I adore you for counting ME as an heir of your promise to Abraham by faith. Thank you for the great drama of salvation which is unfolding even now as you bring sinners to faith in Christ.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 36
Prayer of Consecration
Thank you, Lord, for your steadfast love. This psalm contrasts the small, futile shoddiness of evil with the immensity of your goodness. I want to be instructed by both images, motivated to turn away from sin and toward the vast and beautiful river of your delights. Help me see the proofs of your love today. If I feel my own scarcity, lavish me with your abundance. If I feel discouraged, assure me that I’m secure and protected under the shadow of your wings. Continue your steadfast love to me. Remind me of your faithfulness that reaches the clouds, and your judgements that extend to the deep. Let these realities strengthen and satisfy me as I approach the work of this day, for Jesus’ sake.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Tuesday, November 12, 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: I confess that I often honor you with my lips while my heart is far from you. I am content to appear righteous instead of truly being righteous. I repent of my sin and my self-love. Please search my heart, examine my motives, and forgive my faults. Awaken me to your glory, and send your Spirit to renew and change my heart. Help me to hear your voice today above the clamor of this world, and follow only you. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 6:9-22
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Romans 3:21-31
Prayer of Adoration:
I adore you, O God, because you have manifested your righteousness in the person and work of your Son Jesus. There is no distinction - all have sinned and fallen short of your glory, and are saved only by grace through faith in Jesus. Thank you for the redemption that is in Christ Jesus!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 27
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord: in the midst of great danger, David found courage and confidence in communion with you. How often I allow the circumstances of my life to dictate my feelings, rather than resting in the fact that You are my light and my salvation. No evil that befalls me in this life can remove your steadfast love from me, or threaten my union with Christ. You have not promised me peace, prosperity, and safety; my life may be filled with hardship and struggle. But You will not forsake me, or hide your face from me. O Lord, give me the grace to seek your face even when my heart is pounding and my thoughts are scattered. Strengthen my confidence that I’ll see your goodness in the land of the living. Teach me what it means to abide in you, so that communion with you becomes my daily habit.
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 11, 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
O Lord, I acknowledge before you my sin, my wounds, and my weakness. I need your forgiveness; I need your healing; I need your strength. In Christ, you draw near to the weak and needy. You are merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. Forgive my sin, for Jesus’ sake. Heal my wounds, for Jesus’ sake. Show your strength in my weakness, for Jesus’ sake. By your Spirit, empower me today to delight in you and to obey your will, seeking your glory above all else. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Daniel 7:1-14
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 18:33-37
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I worship you for bearing witness to the truth. You are the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, and those who love truth listen to your voice. I adore you as the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 11
Prayer of Consecration
Oh Lord, there is much in this world to make me fearful and troubled. Many things make me want to fly away and hide in the mountains, like the bird in the psalm. But I am reminded that you are on your throne. Your eyes see. You are not blind to the wickedness and violence that takes place on the earth. Remind me, in the midst of troubling events, that You are righteous, and that you love righteous deeds. I cannot change the world; my power and influence are small. But I CAN live righteously in my own corner of the world, pushing back darkness by my own commitment to righteousness and mercy. Let me not go along with the way of the world; instead, let me seek your kingdom and pursue holiness. Animate me with the promise that “the upright shall behold Your face;” fill me with the Holy Spirit today and conform my desires to yours. Help me say no to every form of sin and to everything that would dull your glory in my life.
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 9, 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
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: Zephaniah 1:7-18
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Hebrews 9:11-28
Prayer of Adoration:
Christ Jesus, I adore you for securing an eternal redemption through your perfect sacrifice. You are the mediator of a new covenant. You have offered yourself once for all to put away sin by the sacrifice of yourself. Because you are eternal, my salvation is eternal! Thank you that you have purified my conscience from dead works to serve the living God.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 123
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, the words of this brief psalm are like a sigh. It’s a cry for mercy in the face of scorn and contempt. And just like your people of old faced contempt, so do your people today. The world increasingly rejects us, ridicules us, and finds your ways contemptible. So today, give me the courage to be bold and courageous in the face of hostility. Help me fear you more than I fear the rejection of those around me. Keep me humble, gracious, and winsome; but let me never depart from your word or compromise your truth for the sake of approval. Strengthen my faith, and help me bear the ridicule of others as my Savior did. I lift my eyes to you, crying out for your strength and care. Have mercy on me. Amen.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Friday, November 8, 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 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: Amos 9:11-15
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 Thessalonians 5:1-11
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus: I worship you for the promise of your coming. You will return, even as people mock and scoff at the idea. May the promise of your return spur me to be awake and sober, rejecting darkness and walking in the light of your truth. Thank you that you have destined me for salvation through the Lord Jesus Christ.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 93
Prayer of Consecration
O God: This psalm invites me to meditate on Your power and sovereignty. It was written to strengthen Your people in the face of trouble with an image of You in royal robes, prepared to act on their behalf. Images of dark, chaotic floodwater surge through it. As I approach a new day, I may face events that feel like a chaotic flood. If this isn’t my current circumstance, prepare me for the day when it might be. Lord, reassure my soul. As your Spirit hovered over the watery chaos at the dawn of creation, hover over me. As Jesus quieted the raging sea, quiet me with your word. Thank you that you’re the sovereign king, robed in majesty. 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 7, 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
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: Proverbs 11
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Colossians 1:11-20
Prayer of Adoration:
King Jesus - Creator, Sustainer and Redeemer of all things: I worship you with my whole being. As the source of my existence, I honor you. As the source of my salvation, I praise you. As the source of my peace, I glory in the wonder of your cross.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 33:1-12
Prayer of Consecration
O God: you are worthy of enthusiastic, wholehearted worship. The psalm calls this kind of praise “fitting for the upright.” It’s good and right that your people know you so deeply and admire your goodness so much that they greet you with shouts of joy! So today, move me toward that sort of worship. I know that my worship is often tepid, distracted, derailed by various objections and doubts. So teach me that my worship is not remedied by improving myself; it can only be set right by gazing at you. Expand my capacity to understand you. Stretch my comprehension and stir my hunger. I want eyes to see and ears to hear your faithful work, your steadfast love. 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 6, 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 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: Ruth 3:1-5 and 4:13-17
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: 1 Corinthians 15:51-58
Prayer of Adoration:
O God, thank you for giving us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of his triumph over the grave, death has been swallowed up. Your people no longer live in fear of death; we now taunt the grave: “O death, where is your sting?”
Psalm Reading: Psalm 31
Prayer of Consecration
O God: I remember that this psalm of trust was in the mouth of Jesus as he was dying. He prayed, “into your hands, I commit my spirit” - teaching us, even as he suffered, to cry out to you. His prayer in suffering teaches me to do the same. I confess that I expect my circumstances to be easy and my life to go well. The world seduces me with endless messages of prosperity, health, and success. These things are good gifts from you, to be received with gratitude when they come; but to always expect them is foolish and naive. Help me reckon honestly with my pain, without giving way to entitlement. Let me rest in your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you. Help me remember that “my times are in your hand,” and let my heart take courage as I wait for you.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Tuesday, November 5, 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: 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: Ruth 1
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Mark 12:28-44
Prayer of Adoration:
Christ Jesus, I adore you as the one worthy of all my love. I know how often I fail to keep your greatest commandment; yet you have died for my sin, and you dwell in me by your Spirit, empowering me to truly love you and my neighbor.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 18:25-50
Prayer of Consecration
“O God, your way is perfect.” This whole psalm is David’s extended meditation on your way… your style of doing things. Your mode of operating in the world. The more I walk with you, the more I know your way. In fact, it gets more more beautiful and captivating the longer I walk with you. And your way finds its zenith and fulfillment in the Lord Jesus Christ. He is the one who fulfills all the battle-language of this Psalm: who has overtaken his enemies, subdued the nations, and brought salvation to his people. I have known darkness, yet through Christ you light my path. I have been exposed and vulnerable, yet through Christ you protect and restore me. Like David, I have weathered turbulent times - and if I haven’t yet, I inevitably will. Yet through Christ, you anchor me in spite of my turmoil. “This is God. His way is perfect.” Thank you, O God, that your word proves true; and that You are a shield for all who take refuge 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.
Monday, November 4, 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
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: Deuteronomy 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: Matthew 25:14-30
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I adore you as the Master who expects wise stewardship from your servants. You have promised that those who are faithful over a little will be set over much, and to those who have, more will be given. Thank you for your sovereign, powerful grace, which works in me and through me to accomplish your purposes.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 18:1-24
Prayer of Consecration
O God, I thank you that you are my fortress, my rock, and my shield. This psalm is an image of your great power. It shows thunder, earthquakes, fire, and lightning flashing around you as you move on behalf of your people. Expand my scope for understanding your glory today. Lift up my eyes to see you, for I’m often preoccupied with tiny, self-focused problems. As I sit with your word, it feeds my imagination with expansive and glorious pictures of you. What am I, that you are mindful of me? Yet you surround me with your lovingkindness. You draw near to me and intervene on my behalf. Teach me to esteem you as highly I ought, dear Lord, and to love you with all my heart.
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 2, 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
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: Hosea 5:15-6:6
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: Hebrews 7:11-28
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus: what a great High Priest you are! Through your intercession and by your sacrifice, I am able to draw near to God. You are better than Melchizedek and better than the Levites; you have given me a better hope, better promises, and a better covenant. I rejoice in you today as my great High Priest.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 126
Prayer of Consecration
O God: you are the restorer of fortunes. As the singers of this psalm reflect on their history with you, they remember the overwhelming joy of coming home from exile. Their captivity was great; and great was their deliverance! I, too, know the experience of captivity. So let me remember the prisons from which I’ve been set free. At my initial conversion, what a release from bondage I experienced! And since then, I’ve been emancipated from many troubles; from discouragement of spirit; from miserable backsliding; and from grievous doubt. These deliverances have come sometimes quickly and sometimes gradually; but in every case, I remember the joy which followed each emancipation. The Lord has done great things for me, and I am glad! So as I go about my work today, keep your great deliverance alive in my heart, and let my mouth be filled with laughter.
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 1, 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
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: Hosea 2:14-23
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord: thank you for the warnings you give in the Scriptures. Thank you that in addition to promising us your faithfulness, you admonish and instruct your people so that we do not take your grace for granted. Let me not grow weary in doing good, but refresh my spirit with your grace.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 78:56-72
Prayer of Consecration
O God: let this his portion of your word hold up a mirror to me. Show me my idols, which provoke your jealousy, and my treachery which arouses your anger. Even as you removed yourself from your people of old and allowed them to suffer just consequences, you repeatedly refer to them as your people, your heritage. You move decisively to rescue and restore them. Thank you, Lord, that you did that same thing for me in Jesus, the son of David. I know that I’m like your people in this psalm: prone to honor you with my lips while my heart is far from you. Your word reminds me not to take you lightly or assume I can fool you. Humble me today and help me live with integrity before you. Move me to acknowledge my sin and to renew my obedience, through the gracious influence of your Holy Spirit.
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, October 31, 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: 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: Jeremiah 31:7-14
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
Prayer of Adoration:
I worship you, O God, that death is not the end for your people. For those who are united to your Son Jesus, not even death can separate us from your love. The dead in Christ WILL rise, and so we will always be with you. Grant me greater and fuller hope in the promise of your return.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 78:32-55
Prayer of Consecration
O God: this passage continues the story of Your people in the aftermath of the exodus. They can be made to wonder, but not to believe. This passage shows how sin and unbelief go together. If they had believed, they would not have sinned; and if they had not have been blinded by sin, they would have believed. Dear Lord, use this passage to search me. Give me insight and awareness, to see areas of my life where I hold out in unbelief. Help me not flatter you with my mouth, while being unfaithful to you in my heart. I invite and welcome your conviction. Give me wisdom to reckon with the warning in this story; and by your Spirit, make my heart soft and teachable toward 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.
Wednesday, October 30, 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
Heavenly Father, with my eyes fixed on Jesus, I ask you to forgive my sins. Forgive me for hurting people I love by my impatience, by my irritation, and by my unkept promises. Forgive me for caring more about what others think about me than what think about me. Forgive me for being too busy to behold your beauty in Your Word, meditate on your mercies in Christ, and hear you call to me in the gospel. Have mercy on me, Father, in the name of Jesus Christ my Lord. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 65:17-25
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 21:5-28
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, thank you that your redemption is drawing near! You are creating new heavens and a new earth; the former things shall not be remembered. I worship you as I wait patiently for your glorious return, and for the fulfillment of all that you have promised.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 78:17-31
Prayer of Consecration
O God: This psalm shows a dark moment in Israel’s history, when after their exodus from Egypt, the people revert to complaining, rebellion, and doubt. Am I like Israel, harboring bitterness, entitlement, or complaint? Am I overlooking your goodness to me, and giving in to a rebellious, demanding attitude? I invite you to show me the true state of my soul. Recall to my mind the many ways you’ve faithfully preserved me. As you gave food and drink to your people in the wilderness, through Christ you provide the food and drink my soul requires. My hungry, rebellious heart is met with abundance and mercy because Jesus was laid low. Thank you for the beauty of the gospel which is displayed and foreshadowed in this psalm.
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.