Friday, July 28, 2023
Opening Prayer:
There is none like you among the gods, O Lord, nor are there any works like yours. For you are great and do wondrous things; you alone are God. Teach me your way, O LORD, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Almighty God: 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: Hosea 11:1-11
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: Ephesians 1
Prayer of Adoration:
Father of Glory: I marvel that you chose me in Christ before the foundation of the world. Blessed Jesus: thank you that in you, I have redemption through your blood. Holy Spirit: thank you for sealing me in Christ and guaranteeing my inheritance. Amen.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 105:1-22
Prayer of Consecration
God, as I meditate on your faithfulness to your people throughout history, I am reminded of your goodness. And I’m challenged by this one phrase in the Psalm: “let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice.” I’m reminded of how joyful the Lord Jesus was during his life on earth; how freely he enjoyed his relationship with you! And I’m reminded of how often my disposition is marked instead by fear, doubt, worry, anger, shame, discouragement, or despair. The bottom line is that I’m more consumed with my worries than with your glory. So today, would you fill me with joy? Would you let my heart rejoice as I remember the wondrous works you have done? Holy Spirit, I know that joy is a fruit of your presence; so fill me today, that I might overflow with joy through your abundant goodness.
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.
