The Daily Liturgy
Friday, March 4, 2022
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, you have searched me and known me. You know my thoughts before I think them. You know my words before I speak them. You know my past, my present, and my future. Awaken me now, to seek you while you may be found, to call upon you while you are near, and to live a life that brings glory to your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Merciful Father, I come into your presence with deep gratitude, for I am no longer under the law but under grace. Resting in that truth, I freely confess my brokenness and my weakness before you. Instead of worshipping you, I have put myself at the center of my life. Instead of honoring others, I have withheld words of blessing and spoken words of harm. Have mercy on me, for Jesus’ sake. By your Holy Spirit, awaken in me today passionate worship, joyful obedience, and wholehearted love for others. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 58:1-12
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 17:1-8, 22-23
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus, I adore you in the beauty of your holiness and the power of your majesty. As the radiance of God’s glory, you have brought light to a dark world and life to people dead in sin. You are God’s beloved son; I will listen to you.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 25
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord, prayer is the ascent of the soul toward you; and I join with this psalm to lift my mind, my heart, and my soul upward. My natural instinct is to focus on the things of this world. I constantly give my attention to lesser things. I obsessively look for opportunities to escape from reality. I know deep in my bones that these things are cheap. Insubstantial. They really can’t bear the weight of my desires. Make me like the psalmist, whose desire and longing is aimed toward you. Use the events of this day - the good things, as well as the loneliness and trouble - to change my sense of what is worthy of longing, so that I lose my taste for lesser things. Sharpen my hunger for the substance, beauty and weight - the glory - of you. I know you are good in my intellect; teach me these things at the deepest level of my experience. Guard my soul, O Lord. With the psalmist I say, may integrity and uprightness preserve me; for 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.
Thursday, March 3, 2022
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
O Lord, you promise to work all things for my good, Yet I confess that instead of delighting in your grace, I find reasons to be unhappy. I have filled my life with busyness and scheduled myself into exhaustion. I have been quick to judge others and slow to forgive them. Open my eyes to Your glory which is all around me, and to Your love which is smiling through all things. Renew in me a sense of wonder in You and your good creation. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 2:15-17 & 3:1-7
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: Luke 4:1-13
Prayer of Adoration:
I praise you, Lord Jesus, for your obedience to the Father; for your strength in temptation; and for your resistance to the devil. Because of your humility, I follow you as my example. Because of your faithfulness, I love you as my King. Because of your triumph, I worship you as my God.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 6
Prayer of Consecration
Thank you, Lord, for giving me prayers and psalms that teach me to express repentance. I live in a culture that dreads even the idea of guilt, and goes to great lengths to self-justify. But there’s a deeper wisdom in repentance that allows me to speak the truth about myself to you. Knowing that you’ve already seen and made provision for my sin, I can lay my burden down. Even in my troubled state, I can follow the path of David, who didn’t hide from you, but knew you well enough to appeal for your mercy. Thank you that just as you heard his weeping, you also hear mine. As you accepted his prayer, so you accept mine, through the mediation of the Lord Jesus Christ. Where I need to make amends to others, help me do so. Where I need to change my actions, help me do so. Fill my inner person with the sense of your loving presence to an ever-increasing degree, so that my most familiar sins become alien to me. Make them bitter, and yourself sweet, 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.
Wednesday, March 2, 2022
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, today I enter the season of Lent mindful of my sin, my weakness, and my mortality. I confess that I often avoid introspection, reflection, and mindfulness. I do not number my days or consider the brevity of life. So today, I invite You to humble me; to chasten me; to convict me. Bring me low in deep awareness of my fragile and faltering condition. May dust and ashes point the way to joy and gladness through union with your eternal Son. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Joel 2:1-2, 12-17
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: 2 Corinthians 5:16-6:10
Prayer of Adoration:
I magnify you, O God, because in Christ you have reconciled the world to yourself, and given your people the ministry of reconciliation. For our sake you made him who knew no sin, to be sin. In Christ, the old has passed away; the new has come!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 51
Prayer of Consecration
O God, this psalm is a cry of sorrow over sin and a plea for forgiveness. As I join my prayer to it, guide me into right repentance. Sharpen my conviction over my sin. Heal and restore the sensitivity of my conscience. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and give me renewed passion for total integrity before you. You are delighted by truth in my inward being; you want me to learn wisdom in my secret heart, so that I can know true authenticity and freedom. Wherever repentance is needed in my life, I welcome the searching eye of your all-knowing Spirit. It may be costly and painful, like bones breaking. But the psalm says, “let the bones that you have broken rejoice.” You’re not interested in showy acts of sacrifice; you love a broken and contrite heart. And you have promised to forgive all my sin through the mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ. So restore to me the joy of your salvation today, 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, March 1, 2022
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 26:16-21
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: 2 Corinthians 4
Prayer of Adoration:
O God: thank you for shining in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. That light changes everything. Glory to you, O God!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 81
Prayer of Consecration
Father, I see that I am like the Israelites in this psalm. Though I belong to you and enjoy your favor and blessing, I don’t always listen to your word. I have hard, stubborn places in my heart; places where I resist your law because I’m a rebel. Deep down I prefer to solve my own problems and keep my own judgments, holding parts of myself back from full obedience. I confess and repent. Please change me. Help me remember that you have demonstrated your trustworthy character and unwavering love with proof after proof. Soften my heart, Lord. I want to obey you. Satisfy me with your love. Let me listen to your voice and walk in your ways. 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.
Monday, February 28, 2022
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, God of my salvation, every day I call upon you, In the morning my prayer comes before you. Incline your ear to my cry! For my soul is full of troubles, and my strength fails. Renew me each morning with your steadfast love, that I may rejoice and be glad all my days.
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: 1 Kings 8:22-30, 41-43
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 5:1-20
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus: I stand in awe of your authority over all things: seen and unseen, temporal and eternal. And I worship you for your merciful concern for human dignity. Thank you for freeing those in bondage to evil, and for standing in opposition to everything that dishonors the humanity of others.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 75
Prayer of Consecration
Oh Lord, with the Psalmist I long for the day when you will judge the earth with equity. You hold the pillars of the earth steady. You will surely hold me steady as well. My safety is not found in human strength, in powerful leaders, in stable circumstances. My safety is found in the steadfast love of the Lord. With all my heart, I look for the day when you return, bringing justice and restoration. Your judgment is such good news, because it means that everything evil will be toppled. You will bring an unshakable stability to this fragile and fragmented world. As I go about my work today, I will look forward to the day of your judgment - and I will live my life in anticipation of that day. By your grace, help me turn from all evil and selfishness today. Remind me that you love humility and goodness; you bring low the proud and the wicked. Search my heart, steady me when I face temptation, and remind me of your love.
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, February 26, 2022
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. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
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: Deuteronomy 11:18-28
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:
Almighty God: I adore you for your mercy in putting forward Christ Jesus as a propitiation for sins. In doing so you vindicate your righteousness, showing yourself to be just AND the justifier of those who have faith in Jesus. Thank you for your righteousness, and that by faith, I am counted righteous in Christ.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 57
Prayer of Consecration
Oh Lord, this Psalm is a cry for mercy. “My soul is in the midst of lions,” says the Psalmist - and then he makes clear that those “lions” are actually “the children of man… whose tongues are sharp swords.” I know what it’s like to be in the midst of conflict; to experience the sharp words and harsh responses of others. Thank you that your word speaks to this reality. Help me take refuge in you rather than returning evil for evil or insult for insult. Let me be like Jesus, loving my enemies and praying for those who persecute me. And let me do this not merely as a Christian duty, but because your Spirit is transforming my inner being and actually CAUSING me to love my enemies. Give me grace today to respond to whatever conflict or tension I experience with charity, mercy, and kindness. Ground me in your steadfast love, and grant me grace in my relationships with others, for Jesus’ sake. 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, February 25, 2022
Opening Prayer:
Lord God Almighty: Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law. Open my ears, that I may tremble at your Word. Open my lips, that my mouth may declare your praise. Guide 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: 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: Matthew 7:7-29
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus: I adore you for your promise that those who ask will receive, and those who seek will find. You are willing to be found by all who seek you; and if I ask you for bread, you won’t give me a stone. Thank you for your gracious invitation to seek you and build my life upon you.
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. But 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 this day. Let me remember that, regardless of how things may appear, you’re on your throne ruling in glorious power. Capture my imagination with this vision of you high and lifted up. Awaken my soul to deeper and more fervent worship, so that my communion with you might be a source of healing for me and blessing for others. 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, February 24, 2022
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, you have searched me and known me. You know my thoughts before I think them. You know my words before I speak them. You know my past, my present, and my future. Awaken me now, to seek you while you may be found, to call upon you while you are near, And to live a life that brings glory to your name.
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: 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 Corinthians 3
Prayer of Adoration:
Holy Spirit: where you are, there is freedom! I adore you for your work of liberation. You are setting me free from the shackles of sin, transforming me from one degree of glory to another, by helping me behold the glory of Christ. Thank you for the mystery and majesty of your invisible work.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 131
Prayer of Consecration
Lord God: let this gentle image of mother and child rebuke my drive for power, status, and visibility. I live in a world driven by image and influence. This world insists that I play along, but when I do, it traps me in a false version of myself. So let me respond to the invitation of this Psalm. Let me say with the Psalmist: O Lord, my heart is not lifted up; my eyes are not raised too high. Let this prayer orient and simplify my inner life today. I’m endlessly tempted to occupy myself with things to great and marvelous for me, but in your wisdom you’ve limited my capacity so that I might understand my place as a created thing. Give me the inner disposition of the contented child resting with his mother. Let me love the simplicity of dependence and invisibility, because I’m known and enjoyed by you. 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, February 23, 2022
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
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: Isaiah 62
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 6:39-49
Prayer of Adoration:
I adore you, O God, as the secure foundation of my life. Thank you, O Father, for creating me for your glory. Thank you, Lord Jesus, for giving me 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 103
Prayer of Consecration
“Bless the Lord, O my soul.” This Psalm is an invitation to preach to myself; to pause today’s rush of activity and meditate on your faithfulness, O Lord. So let me remember what you’ve done for me: you’ve forgiven my sin; you’ve healed my diseases of mind and body; you’ve redeemed my life from the pit; you’ve crowned me with steadfast love. Today’s labor may involve small, ordinary tasks, or great influence and responsibility. Either way, as I work, I’ll fix my soul on your steadfast love which stretches from everlasting to everlasting. I know my days are like the grass, and my frame is made from dust. But Your steadfast love endures forever. With all creation, I will bless you, Lord, and live for Your kingdom and 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.
Tuesday, February 22, 2022 (Copy)
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: Isaiah 55
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 13
Prayer of Adoration:
God, I adore you for Your love: the love you possess in and of yourself, and the love you’ve poured out on me in your Son. Your love for me in Christ is eternal and transforming. Thank you for the hope of seeing clearly what I now see only dimly, and knowing fully even as I am fully known.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 92
Prayer of Consecration
Make me like one of the righteous in this psalm, Lord, planted and flourishing in your house. I love the picture of a life rooted in you: always green and alive, always fruitful, always pouring out praise to you. The psalm lays out a pattern for me as I seek deeper knowledge of you: I will declare your love in the morning, and meditate on your faithfulness at night. Help me live with this rhythm, with my inner person continually oriented toward you. This grounds me in your character and breaks old patterns of anxious thought. I don’t want my soul to atrophy under a burden of fear, stress, and self-reliance. I want instead to fill my mind with you. So make your word my delight, and let me be like a thriving tree planted in your courts. 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.
Monday, February 21, 2022
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, God of my salvation, Every day I call upon you, In the morning my prayer comes before you. Incline your ear to my cry! For my soul is full of troubles, and my strength fails. Renew me each morning with your steadfast love, that I may rejoice and be glad all my days.
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: Isaiah 49:8-16
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: Mark 4:21-41
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I adore you for the glory of your kingdom. Though it often appears small, hidden, and scattered, one day your power and glory will be fully revealed. Thank you for the hope of your coming kingdom.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 67
Prayer of Consecration
Thank you, Lord, for the invitation to rejoice in your goodness. With the psalmist I pray: let your face shine on your people today! Be gracious to us. Bless us. 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. Until that day, help me use my own resources to reflect your goodness in my corner of the world. Keep me from all sin, and from any compromise that would dull my influence for you. Help me enjoy your blessing on me, and extend that blessing 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.
Saturday, February 19, 2022
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. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
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: Isaiah 9:1-7
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: 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I honor you as the head of the body, the church. In you, many have become one, enemies have become family, and your people are united in love under your Lordship. Thank you for the beauty of unity and diversity, through the grace of the Holy Spirit.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 45
Prayer of Consecration
Give me the grace, Lord, to set aside my distractions and join the psalmist in meditating on your perfection. Work in my imagination, so that I can see and admire you. Work on my ability to focus, so I can sustain attention on you. Work in my soul, so that I can tolerate the stillness it takes to pray deeply. Give me eyes to see and ears to hear you, because left to myself, I overstimulate my senses to numbness. Give me a refreshed heart, one that overflows with a song of love to you. This psalm reminds me that you are everything desirable: powerful, compassionate, and just, with military might and courtly splendor. Your beauty has the power to change your people. So help me meditate on your character, and be changed into 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.
Friday, February 18, 2022
Opening Prayer:
Lord God Almighty: Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law. Open my ears, that I may tremble at your Word. Open my lips, that my mouth may declare your praise. Guide 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
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: Exodus 24
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 6:19-34
Prayer of Adoration:
Father, I worship 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 20
Prayer of Consecration
O God, this psalm is a prayer for protection; and I pray it today for myself and for Your people around the world. This day may bring trouble or suffering; Lord, answer and protect your people. This day may bring disappointed desire and unfulfilled plans; Lord, remember us and regard us with favor. This day may reveal our neediness in body and mind; Lord, answer your anointed. Give us the resilience to pray in stubborn hope, not because of our own deserving, but based firmly on your goodness and mercy. Some trust in human strength, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God. Oh Lord, answer us when we call.
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, February 17, 2022
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, you have searched me and known me. You know my thoughts before I think them. You know my words before I speak them. You know my past, my present, and my future. awaken me now, to seek you while you may be found, to call upon you while you are near, And to live a life that brings glory to your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Heavenly Father, I enter this day full of thanksgiving, because you have redeemed my life by your mercy and grace. I worship you for such a great salvation even as I come to you in repentance. Hear my confession, Father. Forgive me for under-believing your gospel and over-believing my worries. Forgive me for being slow to listen and quick to judgement. Forgive me for failing to love you and your church. Have mercy on me, Lord, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Proverbs 31
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 12:1-11
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 for the beautiful mystery of the church’s diversity, grounded in your eternal and unchanging unity. Amen.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 137
Prayer of Consecration
Thank you, Lord, that your word includes this song of exile, connecting us with the displaced people of Israel, captives in Babylon. We see them sitting by the streams of a foreign land, lamenting their lost home and country. Your word invites our expressions of deepest loss, our yearning for home, and our longing for justice. Even today the world is full of exiled people of various kinds, and I pray for your mercy to be with them. I also recognize the longing for home in myself, that I too am spiritually exiled from my proper place. Lord, lift up the exiled today, those who are displaced from their physical homes, and those feel the spiritual weariness of their sojourning. Remind us that, just as your people Israel eventually returned home, so we will someday come back to our rightful place with you. Restore to us the songs of Zion, and fill us with hope. 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, February 16, 2022
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
Lord God, in Christ you have adopted me as your beloved child. But I confess that deep inside my soul I doubt Your love for me. Instead of being satisfied in your acceptance, I look for acceptance elsewhere. Instead of resting in your love, I am restless with fear, control, and worry. Forgive my lack of trust in your promises. Forgive my doubt of your great love. Let your perfect love cast out all fear, and free me to glorify and enjoy you fully. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 43:8-15
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: Luke 6:27-38
Prayer of Adoration:
O Father: I worship you for your mercy. You are kind and benevolent not only to those who love you, but to your enemies as well. You cause the rain to fall on the righteous and the unrighteous, and you sent the Lord Jesus into the world to save sinners. Thank you for your great mercy - may I be changed by it!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 127
Prayer of Consecration
Thank you, Lord, that you’ve given me a vocation and a purpose in your good world. You’ve invited me to collaborate with you in the advancement of your kingdom. Today, as I give my energy and attention to the day’s work, let me understand my tiny efforts in the bigger picture of your glorious movement of redemption. My skills, resources, and influence are given to me by you, for your glory. They’re meant to create human flourishing and return honor to you. So whether I’m building houses, or bringing up children, or serving, teaching, and creating in any number of ways, I ask you: please Lord, build with me. Help me build with you. Remind me that my labor is not in vain, as I labor with you. Saturate my imagination with this truth, 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, February 15, 2022
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
Holy Spirit: because of my union with Christ, you dwell within me. Yet I confess that I still live according to the flesh. I do not live in conscious dependence upon you. I do not walk in vital communion with you. I am self-reliant and self-trusting, more defined by this age than by the age to come. Forgive me, Gracious Father, for neglecting the gift of your Spirit. Today, fill me afresh with the Spirit’s presence. Revive my soul. Renew my zeal. Release your power in me, for the glory of Your name.
Old Testament Reading: Proverbs 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: 1 Corinthians 9:16-27
Prayer of Adoration:
God, I worship you for calling me into a life full of purpose. The life I live in Christ is not in vain. As your representative, I have been entrusted to preach the gospel and share in its blessings. Thank you for this calling, and for the imperishable inheritance that is mine in Jesus!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 37:23-40
Prayer of Consecration
Salvation is from the Lord. Not just the salvation that brings us to glory, but also in the form of many minor rescues along the way. I see your hand at work in my life, Lord, and I thank you for your constant supply of mercy, of resources, of comfort. When I look back, I see that you have indeed kept my way, even when it was invisible to me. I’m continuously trying to save myself with many old habits, deeply ingrained in my soul. But thank you that the very core of the gospel of grace is here: salvation is from the Lord. None of my own actions, good or bad, will save me. Salvation belongs only to you. Help me reckon truthfully with the things I do in an effort to save myself, to feel important, to feel safe, to be loved. Help me when I want to give them one more try. Remind me that my refuge, my stronghold, my salvation is in you. Put your law in my heart and draw me ever nearer to yourself.
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, February 14, 2022
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, God of my salvation, every day I call upon you, in the morning my prayer comes before you. Incline your ear to my cry! For my soul is full of troubles, and my strength fails. Renew me each morning with your steadfast love, that I may rejoice and be glad all my days.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Almighty God: you have commanded me to love my neighbor as myself. But today, as I contemplate my lack of love, I am humbled to the dust. Too often, I avoid others when they bother me. I ignore others when they don’t interest me. I use others when they benefit me. I reject others when they sin against me. My love is shallow and self-serving. Forgive me, O God. Thank you that in Christ, you have loved me with a love incomprehensible. May your love fill me, and transform me, for the glory of your name. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18
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: Mark 4:1-20
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I adore you, for in you the mystery of God’s salvation has been made known. You have revealed your kingdom to the simple, the lowly, and the humble, and have given your people ears to hear and understand. Thank you for making yourself known to me!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 37:1-22
Prayer of Consecration
O God, your word is a powerful corrective for my anxious, worried mind. In this psalm, you wisely and gently doctor my soul. When I look at the world on my own, I can’t understand why people who do evil seem to flourish, achieving success and the affirmation of the world even as they dishonor you. It seems like the godly should prosper, but often they’re the ones with the most struggle. Why? This psalm prompts me to look beyond the surface to deeper realities, reminding me that your kingdom operates on a different economy. Justice and righteousness are coming as surely as the new day will break. In the meantime, help me stop fretting over the situations of others, and look carefully to my own soul. Help me trust in you today, and do good, as your word says. Help me to dwell faithfully in my own place, knowing that you establish my steps and hold my hand as I wait patiently 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.
Saturday, February 12, 2022
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. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Almighty God: I cannot keep silent about my sin; when I do, my bones waste away and your hand is heavy upon me. So I will acknowledge my sin to you, and I will not cover my iniquity. Today, I acknowledge the sin of ENTITLEMENT. I live with a demanding spirit that grabs, clutches, and expects, rather than with a generous spirit that thanks you and blesses others. Forgive me, O Lord, by the mercy of Jesus, who did not regard equality with you as something to be grasped, but emptied himself that I might be filled. Fill me up today with the freedom and joy of grace, for Your name’s sake: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Proverbs 29
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 8:1-13
Prayer of Adoration:
Triune God, I bow in worship and adoration before you. Father: from you and for you all things exist. Jesus: you are Lord of all creation, through whom everything has been made. Spirit: with the Father and the Son you are worshiped and glorified. Thank you for your love, which binds your people together in unity.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 34
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, this prayer invites me to meditate on your goodness, so I ask for the grace to set distractions aside and fix my inner gaze on you. As I remember your work in my life, I’m filled with gratitude because you’ve shown your goodness again and again. When I’ve called out to you in need, you’ve provided for me. I know my deep tendency to forget your faithfulness and go through the day driven by fear or stubborn self-sufficiency. Orient my heart to the truth of your goodness. When I’m crushed in spirit, remind me that you are near to the broken. I long for the kind of life described in this psalm, one that sees many good days, so I pray that you would keep me from evil today and help me pursue peace. Redeem the broken places in my life according to your word, Lord, and teach me to find my 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.
Friday, February 11, 2022
Opening Prayer:
Lord God Almighty: Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law. Open my ears, that I may tremble at your Word. Open my lips, that my mouth may declare your praise. Guide 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, I confess to you the shallowness of my repentance. I am content to deal with surface sins, rather than exploring the dark contours of my inner being. I am content to offer words of repentance, rather than bringing forth the fruit of repentance. Humble me greatly today. Reveal to me the depth of my depravity and the strength of my idolatry, that I may drink more deeply of your mercy and delight more fully in the beauty of Jesus Christ my Savior. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 45:3-15
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: Matthew 5:38-48
Prayer of Adoration:
Christ Jesus, I adore you for the love you have shown to your enemies. You are perfect as your Father is perfect, returning good for evil and mercy for persecution. Thank you for your grace which forgives me and empowers me to forgive as you have forgiven.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 17
Prayer of Consecration
O God: like David, I wish to keep my words free from deceit, my way free from violence, and my feet on a steady path. But I know that even on my best day, my integrity falls short of your perfection - as David’s did also. Only one person can truly say, “You have tested me and you will find nothing.” Only Jesus lived with perfect honesty, peace, and integrity. Lord, I thank you that in Jesus, you answered David’s cry for steadfast love, his desire to be the apple of your eye. I desire these things too. Let me pause and meditate on the reality that because of Jesus’ work, I AM your treasured child. Some day, I will behold your face in righteousness, because I’m clothed completely in his righteousness. Satisfy my soul with the beauty of this assurance. 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, February 10, 2022
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, you have searched me and known me. You know my thoughts before I think them. You know my words before I speak them. You know my past, my present, and my future. Awaken me now, to seek you while you may be found, to call upon you while you are near, and to live a life that brings glory to your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Holy God: Dust I am, and to dust I shall return. I am like a flower of the field, that appears for a little while and then vanishes. But I confess my tendency to live days, weeks, even months at a time with little thought for my mortality, and little consideration for eternity. Forgive my presumption and self-reliance. Humble me to the dust, that I might be ever-mindful of my frailty, and freshly awed by your eternal, infinite beauty. Through Christ, our Lord: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Jeremiah 17:5-13
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 6:12-20
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I adore you that I am not my own but belong to you in body and soul. My whole being is yours, in life and in death, for your purposes and for your glory. Thank you that you are faithful to keep, protect, and guide me.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 149
Prayer of Consecration
Oh Lord, you invite your people to extravagantly praise you with dancing and loud music. Maybe I love to worship with this kind of joy, or maybe I’ve never worshipped this way in my whole life. Thank you that you invite us to know you so intimately and enjoy you so deeply that our inner lives flow with praise. Cultivate a joyful and wholehearted response in me and set me free from passive worship. In that spirit, help me wage war against evil using the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Before I look at the faults of others, help me to reckon humbly and truthfully with the sin in myself. Then, freed by the righteousness of Christ given to me, help me fight sin and worship you with all my heart 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.