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.
