Wednesday, February 8, 2023
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, you have said, “Seek my face.” My heart says to you, “Your face, Lord, do I seek.” Do not hide your face from me. Do not turn me away in anger. Teach me your ways, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
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 I have ignored those less capable than me; I have resented those who have wounded me; I have withdrawn from those who are inconvenient and difficult.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: Isaiah 58
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 2:13-22
Prayer of Adoration:
Father, I praise you for the gift of your Son, the physician come to heal the world and the bridegroom come to redeem it. The earthly ministry of Jesus is but a foretaste of his coming rule and reign. I rejoice as I await his glorious return!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 138
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord, help me today to focus my whole heart and mind on your extraordinary goodness. This psalm shows three pictures of your faithfulness: you answer me when I call; you see me and are near to me when I’m low; and you fulfill your purpose for me with enduring, everlasting love. Make your love real to me today, Lord. Set me free from the old habits, addictions, and cheap sources of comfort that interrupt my communion with you and others. Help me, Lord, as I reject those counterfeit things and fix my heart on the true consolation of your love. Fill my mind with songs that remind me of your ways; your mercy, your glory, your attentive care, your strong protection. And give me the strength of resolve and purpose to faithfully obey you today. I love you, for your steadfast love endures 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.
