The Daily Liturgy
Tuesday, October 31, 2023
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
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: Proverbs 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: Mark 10:35-45
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I adore you, because you did not come to be served, but to serve. Thank you for your humility. Thank you for your condescension. Thank you for your example. You ask nothing of me that you have not modeled yourself; as you have served others, you ask me to serve others. Thank you that you gave your life as a ransom for me so that I can follow you in joyful obedience.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 43
Prayer of Consecration
O God: if MY OWN soul is not cast down and in turmoil today, then someone I know is facing this reality. Life in this world is fraught with difficulties, and sometimes hope and joy seem to vanish. So I pray today for myself, and for all who are downtrodden and discouraged. I ask you to “send forth your light and your truth.” Let the goodness and truth of your Word comfort your people in their despair, O Lord. Rather than pulling away from You, give us the power to seek You, to cry out to You, to praise You. And by your Spirit, help us to preach to ourselves rather than listening to ourselves. Give us the courage to say: “Why are you cast down, O my soul? Hope in God!” Let us not give in to discouragement today, but fight against it with the power of your Word.
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, October 30, 2023
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
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. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Joshua 3:7-17
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: Matthew 23:1-12
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I adore you, because in you there is no dishonesty, no inconsistency, and no hypocrisy. In my own heart I recognize a wide gulf between my words and my actions. But instead of condemnation, you offer me yourself, both as my model to teach me, and as my savior to transform me.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 17
Prayer of Consecration
O God: today I am surrounded by “men of the world whose portion is in this life.” They do not think of the world to come, or ponder the realities of your eternal kingdom. And I confess that I am prone to embrace their perspective. I find myself doubting the reality of the world to come and wondering whether righteousness and obedience really matter. Like the Psalmist, I call upon you. Give ear to my prayer. Hear my words. Keep me as the apple of your eye. Let your faithfulness to me, as promised in your word, anchor and animate my faithfulness to you. Give me vital, vibrant, active trust in you today. May I take hold of the promise that Jesus Christ has pledged himself to me, and he will not let me go.
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, October 28, 2023
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
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: Amos 5:18-24
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: Hebrews 4:12-16
Prayer of Adoration:
Almighty God, I worship you today for your Word, before which I am completely exposed. Nothing is hidden from you, for you know even my secret thoughts and intentions. And despite your intimate knowledge of me, you invite me to draw near, because Jesus the Son of God is my high priest. Thank you for the mercy and grace that is mine in him!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 130 & 131
Prayer of Consecration
O God: these psalms picture a quiet soul; a trusting soul; a waiting soul. How I want that! Yet I confess that my soul is often hurried and harried and busy and scattered. Today, I want to ask for your grace to change that. I hear the language of will and decision in the psalm: “I have calmed and quieted my soul.” This takes intention. It takes purpose. It won’t “just happen.” So even now, in these quiet moments of reflection, I choose to quiet my soul. I choose to wait for the Lord. I choose to slow down - to notice my lungs breathing in and out… my ears hearing and taking in these words… my body filling the space I now occupy. Right now, I choose to let go of things too lofty for me - all the events that are beyond my power and agency. And instead, like a child with its mother, I rest my soul in the presence of the Lord.
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, October 27, 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: 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 confess that 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: Amos 5:1-15
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: 2 Thessalonians 1
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord God: I thank you for your righteous judgment. I worship you for the promise that you will one day right every wrong and bring every deed to justice. With your church, I patiently await your return; and in the meantime, I praise you for the presence and comfort of your Spirit.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22
Prayer of Consecration
God, this Psalm urges me to “let the redeemed of the Lord say so!” And so I begin this day by saying so! I am one of your redeemed. And I worship you today, for as I look back on my life, I see that I have been a fool at times. Because of my iniquities, I have suffered affliction. But when I cried out to you in my distress, you delivered me! And now I ask that you would keep me from further foolishness. Maturing in you means growing in wisdom; and I wish to be wise today, not foolish. So grant me discernment; guard me with your grace; let your Spirit lead me in the good and right path. Cause me to grow in grace, 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.
Thursday, October 26, 2023
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, 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: Isaiah 1:10-18
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: 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12
Prayer of Adoration:
O God: I praise you for the ministry of the apostles, who were first approved by you to be entrusted with the gospel. Thank you that by their obedience, the gospel has been passed on to us, through an unbroken chain of Christians throughout history. By your grace, may you see fit to pass this treasure to another generation through my words and witness.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 90
Prayer of Consecration
O God: I come to you today as the One who has been our dwelling place throughout all generations. From everlasting to everlasting, you are God; I am not the first to cry out to you, nor will I be the last. I ask your grace today to live with eternity in mind. If I am blessed, I have 70 or 80 years on this earth; then I disappear like a vapor. In 100 years, few people will remember who I was or what I did. So let me not give my days to meaningless triviality. Instead, let me live for what matters. Help me invest in the people around me, pointing them toward Your kingdom and Your glory. Help me make the most of my time, using every opportunity to further your purposes. Help me number my days, living with the end in mind and making a difference in my generation. Let your favor be upon me, and establish the work of my hands.
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 25, 2023
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
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: Proverbs 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: Luke 19:1-10
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus: I praise you for coming to seek and save the lost. In taking on our nature, in being the guest of sinners, you bring your salvation near, and show your kindness and mercy.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 32
Prayer of Consecration
O God, how amazing that you count no iniquity against me! In Jesus Christ, you have canceled the debt of my sin. Furthermore, you have credited to me the righteousness of Christ by faith, as though I had never sinned nor been a sinner. May I never take such forgiveness for granted! Instead, may I be moved to acknowledge my sin to you, and to confess my iniquity. Today, let me not be like a horse or a mule, without understanding. Instead, let me willingly submit to the Holy Spirit, who teaches and instructs me in the way I should go. Surround me today with your steadfast love, and let me rejoice in your salvation!
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, October 24, 2023
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
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 worshiping 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: Deuteronomy 34
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 10:17-31
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, the cost of being your disciple is steep. Your call is to full obedience, not merely knowledge; a life of holiness, not occasional good behavior. Yet by grace, you have fully paid for all of my sins, and have opened the way to the kingdom of God! How can I repay you? Instead of laboring in toil or languishing in despair, I will rejoice in my freedom as your beloved child.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 16
Prayer of Consecration
Today, Lord Jesus, I choose to “set the Lord always before me.” I choose to believe that your ways are the path of life; that in your presence there is fullness of joy; that at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. This world offers me many temporary pleasures. But none of them satisfy; they cannot bring me fullness of joy. So today, as I battle sin and temptation, let me not merely avoid the wrong; make me zealous for true happiness. Let my whole being rejoice in your satisfying goodness. Give me not just a distaste for sin, but a taste of the fullness of joy, that I may never again be satisfied by anything less.
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, October 23, 2023
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, 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: 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: Matthew 22:34-46
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus Christ, I worship you as Lord and king. You are both the eternal Son of God and the incarnate son of David; the king of heaven and Lord of all the earth. In your nearness, I delight; by your holiness, I am humbled.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 1
Prayer of Consecration
O God: as I begin this day, I want to let this Psalm sink down into the fabric of my being. I don’t want to walk in the counsel of the wicked; rather, I want to be a person who meditates on your law day and night. I long to be a fruitful tree planted by streams of water, not chaff driven away by the wind. And so I turn my mind to Jesus, who IS the perfect fulfillment of this Psalm. Jesus delights in the law of the Lord. In all that Jesus does, he prospers. And by grace, Jesus is conforming ME into his image! Through union with him, I am becoming more and more like the person Psalm 1 envisions. So today, Holy Spirit, let that work continue. Fill me and further your gracious influence in my life, for my good and Christ’s 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.
Saturday, October 21, 2023
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
Almighty God, I confess today my worry and anxiety. Instead of resting in your sovereignty, I fear the unknown. Instead of bringing my requests before you in prayer, I worry and fret. Instead of letting you be God, I fight for control. Forgive me, O Lord. Help me to seek first your kingdom and your righteousness. Set me free from all anxious thoughts today. Give me contentment and peace, for you have assured me that if I seek your kingdom, I will not lack any good thing. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Malachi 4
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 1:1-4 & 2:5-12
Prayer of Adoration:
Son of God: I adore you for the radiance of your glory. All things were created through you, for you, and hold together in you. You are not a remote, impersonal, or vague presence; you are God’s word spoken, God’s image made visible, and God’s nature made manifest. I honor you as Lord: exalted, reigning, and triumphant!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 136
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, the refrain of this Psalm is no mystery: your steadfast love endures forever. Hearing that phrase over and over again awakens me to what a glorious reality your steadfast love is. It’s your never-stopping, never-giving-up, eternal and relentless jealousy toward all who are your covenant people. And in light of that, the signs of your covenant take on new meaning. Baptism is not merely a symbol; it’s a covenant sign that marks me as yours. And when I come to the Lord’s Table, I am declaring that I belong to you. Like a husband with his wife, you are jealous for my affections and serious about your commitment to me. So tomorrow, as I gather with your people, may the words on my lips and the bread on my tongue have the weight and significance that they deserve. Your steadfast love endures forever - may I never take it for granted!
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, October 20, 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
God of majesty and light, all of creation testifies to your glory. Though your law is perfect, I have disobeyed. Though your revelation is true, I have disbelieved. Though your commandments are pure, I have not trusted you. Forgive me, O Lord, for my willful sin and for my hidden faults. Preserve me with your mighty power this day, that I may not fall into temptation. Straighten my path, and give me wisdom to discern your will, that you might be glorified in everything. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Jeremiah 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: 2 Timothy 4:6-18
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord, I praise you, for even when others desert me, you are near. When my enemies oppose me and reject me, you are faithful. You see injustice and defend your servants, vindicating their good works for your sake. Like the Apostle, I am confident that You will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into your heavenly kingdom.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 107:1-16
Prayer of Consecration
Lord: this Psalm gives various pictures of what redemption looks like. Some are wanderers, looking for a city; others are prisoners, enslaved in their rebellion. And in your goodness, you redeem them all. In your Son and by your Spirit, you gather scattered people, and you liberate enslaved people. So today, I ask for eyes to see the wanderers and the prisoners around me. I remember your grace in my own life; you satisfied my longing and filled my hungry soul with good things. Help me today to tell the story of your redemption to those around me. Let me not keep the good news to myself; instead, “let the redeemed of the Lord say so!”
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 19, 2023
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: I confess with the Psalmist that your law is perfect. The way of your commandments is the way of life; your statutes are full of wisdom. Yet I have violated your law; I have broken your commandments; I have dishonored your name. I ask your forgiveness; and I thank you for sending Jesus, who perfectly obeyed your law and died for my sin so that I might live to righteousness. By Your grace, fill me with Your Spirit, that I might walk in wholehearted obedience to you. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 45:1-13
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 Thessalonians 1:1-10
Prayer of Adoration:
Holy Spirit, I adore you for your powerful work to open minds and convict hearts as the gospel is preached. Moreover, I rejoice that even after conversion, you continue to mold, form, and sanctify your people as they become imitators of Christ Jesus. I adore you, Spirit, for your presence within me and for the works you do through me.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 99
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord, how do justice and mercy both find their source in you? How do vengeance and forgiveness both belong to you? This Psalm looks back to Moses, Aaron, and Samuel as priests and representatives of your people. Your righteousness is displayed both in your forgiveness of their sins and in your vengeance for their wrongdoings. So help me today to remember both your forgiveness and your justice. May I live today with great confidence and trust, knowing that you have forgiven my sin in Christ; but may I also live with great fear and reverence, knowing that you desire holiness from your people. Let me make no excuses for sin today; rather, let me pursue holiness with my whole being.
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 18, 2023
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 come to you now in need of grace. Throughout this week, a war has been raging in my heart. I find myself looking to people, situations, and experiences to give me security, identity, and hope. I have sought from others what can only be found in you. Forgive me, and awaken me to the only glory that really satisfies: the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ, my Savior and Redeemer. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Proverbs 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: Luke 18:1-8
Prayer of Adoration:
God: I worship and adore you because you hear the prayers of your people. Even when my prayers aren’t answered in the way I expect, I know you hear the cries of your people and will one day come to set everything right. You give justice to your elect, who cry to you day and night - and for this, I praise you.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 96
Prayer of Consecration
This Psalm, O Lord, calls me to behold you, to worship you, and to tell of you. Your glory is so abundant that it overflows into the heart of the Psalmist, who cannot help but respond with adoration. I pray, O God, that worship would frame and motivate my thoughts, words, and actions today. Open my eyes to the beauty of your holiness and the transcendence which is evident all around me. Let me taste of your abundant goodness. Increase my sense of awe and wonder today, that I might ascribe to you the glory that you deserve.
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, October 17, 2023
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
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: Exodus 33:7-23
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: Mark 10:2-16
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus Christ, Son of God: I adore you because your kingdom transcends the law of Moses and restores an older, deeper, better vision of peace and flourishing. Those looking for a new law to follow are perplexed by your words; but those who come to you with childlike faith are welcome in your kingdom. Thank you for your upside-down kingdom.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 26
Prayer of Consecration
O God: in this Psalm I hear the longing to be vindicated, to be found righteous, and to commune with you in your Temple. Because you are faithful, the Psalmist trusts that you will honor what is right and do what is good. I know I am not innocent before you; I have not walked in complete integrity. But Jesus Christ my Lord, with whom I am completely united, is blameless, steadfast, and faithful. So let my identity in Christ transform my whole being. Conform me more and more to his image, that I might walk in integrity and confidence before you. Give me the strength of will to refuse sin; to turn away from wickedness; and to avoid consorting with evildoers. Make me holy, as you are holy.
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, October 16, 2023
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
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: Genesis 2:18-24
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 22:15-33
Prayer of Adoration:
God, I adore you that you are not the God of the dead, but the God of the living. The resurrection of the dead is not only a future hope, but a present reality; Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob are not dead, but alive! And I, too, will live, because you have conquered death.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 8
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord, my Lord, along with the Psalmist, I marvel at your glory in the heavens, and at the honor you have given to humanity. I know that I am limited. I feel my weakness. Yet although I am dust, you have made me in your very own image. Indeed, according to this Psalm, every single human being displays your majesty and reflects your glory. Help me today to see every person I meet as they truly are: full of dignity, worthy of honor, made to exercise dominion. As I see your image in them, let it draw my mind and soul to worship you, acknowledging how majestic your name is in all the earth.
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, October 14, 2023
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
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: Jeremiah 32:1-15
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: James 5:7-20
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord, I adore you because your coming is at hand! “The Judge is standing at the door;” your return is imminent. I praise you that you ARE coming to make all things new. Let me await your return with patient perseverance and prayerful obedience.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 143
Prayer of Consecration
God, as I begin this day, “I stretch out my hands to you; my soul thirsts for you like a parched land.” Meet with me now in these quiet moments, and give me the strength I need to live this day joyfully and courageously, for your glory. With the Psalmist, I pray: “Teach me to do your will… Let your good Spirit lead me.” Holy Spirit, I want to be filled up with your presence today; I want to be led by your gentle influence and marked by your good fruit. To you I lift up my soul; make me know the way I should go. Guide me, comfort me, lead me today. I am your servant, and you are my God. Be glorified in my life today; and as the day ends, prepare my heart to rise to you in joyful worship on the Lord’s Day.
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, October 13, 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
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: Isaiah 25:1-9
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: 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5
Prayer of Adoration:
God: I praise you for the Holy Scriptures, which are your very words, breathed out from your own mouth. Thank you that your word is reliable, unbreakable, and powerful, able to make me wise for salvation through faith in Christ. May I always treasure your word and never take it for granted.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 140
Prayer of Consecration
O God: today I pray with the Psalmist: “Grant not, O Lord, the desires of the wicked!” There are ungodly people in this world who plot evil and devise violence. But you are a God of righteousness, who loves what is good. In your mercy, bring the plans of the wicked to ruin; do not let their schemes succeed. Make me mindful of any ways I might be furthering evil in the world - especially in the words I speak. This Psalm mentions the lips and the tongue as the starting place of violence. So let not my tongue speak evil today; instead, may my words be full of praise, prayer, and honor. Let my mouth give thanks to your name throughout this day, and let my mind and heart be conscious of your presence.
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 12, 2023
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 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: Proverbs 4
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: Philippians 4:1-20
Prayer of Adoration:
God: I adore you for your peace, which surpasses all understanding. Why should I worry, why should I be anxious, when you promise to supply my every need in Christ? To you be glory forever.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 124
Prayer of Consecration
O God: this psalm deals honestly with the fact that sometimes, life threatens to “swallow us up.” The images of a flood sweeping your people away... a torrent overwhelming them... the raging waters going over them... these are fitting images for troubles of various kinds. But our hope, in all of it, is that the Lord is on our side, and he will not give us up. Thank you, Father, for your faithfulness to your people. Thank you that you haven’t left me alone. Whatever I face today, I face with the sure promise that you are my help. You won’t let me be overcome. This psalm foreshadows what your word says elsewhere, that with every temptation you provide a way of escape. Like the bird escaping the fowler’s net, help me to flee temptation today and call out to you, knowing that you set me free. My help is in the name, character, and glory of the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth.
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 11, 2023
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
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: Esther 7 and 9:20-22
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: Luke 17
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus: I worship you for the unstoppable progress of your kingdom. Your kingdom has come, is coming, and will come, and nothing can stop its progress or hinder its purposes. Whoever trusts in you cannot be put to shame.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 121
Prayer of Consecration
As I begin this day, I lift up my eyes to you, Lord. This psalm is a place of stability, rest, and calm; make it my base camp. Fill my imagination and capture my heart so deeply that I truly experience you as my helper. Even accounting for my own failures and missed opportunities, somehow in your sovereignty, nothing is lost, because you are the guard of my path. This is good news for my soul, because I can’t see my path, I can only take it one step at a time. The hours ahead may bring trouble of various kinds, or they may be full of peace. Either way, you are my keeper, O Lord. I will lift up my eyes to you, for you are the source of my help. I will certainly face temptation to sin; when I do, hold me steady, don’t let my foot be moved. I rejoice in you, O Lord, my keeper.
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, October 10, 2023
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
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: Numbers 11:1-29
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: Mark 9:38-50
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus: I adore you for the clarity and urgency of your call to discipleship. Thank you for warning me of the destructive effects of sin, and for driving me out of complacency, toward your open, loving arms.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 106:34-48
Prayer of Consecration
Holy Spirit, I invite your work in me as I meditate on this psalm. Although it’s a song about Israel’s history, it invites me to consider my own history with you. You called your people to come out and be separate from the culture around them, but they didn’t obey; instead they assimilated. The culture’s idols became their idols. The culture demanded their allegiance, and they gave it, even to the point of sacrificing their own children to false gods. I know that I am capable of the same betrayal. The false gods of my culture are strong, and they demand my allegiance. So today as I go about my work, show me how I need to separate from the culture around me. Life with you is so much better than the narrow, suffocated life the world offers. Satisfy me with your love 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.
Monday, October 9, 2023
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
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: Exodus 32:1-14
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: Matthew 22:1-14
Prayer of Adoration:
Almighty God: I praise you because you have invited me to the wedding feast of your son. Your banquet hall is open wide to all those who will trade the tattered rags of sin for the wedding garments of your grace. Thank you for Your extravagant generosity!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 106:1-6, 19-23
Prayer of Consecration
O God: this psalm remembers the history of Israel’s relationship with you. Grounded first in your steadfast love and mighty work, it unfolds to show Israel breaking her covenant with you to worship the golden calf in the desert. Without Moses’ meditating presence, the people would have died for their sin. I see that this isn’t just Israel’s story, it’s also my story. I too have been drawn in by your love, but find myself going back to other sources of help and security. Like Israel, I fear the unknown. I prefer a god I can manage and manipulate. But you are completely unlike any other god; you interact with your people on your own terms. When I was alienated from you because I was worshipping other things, you sent Jesus, the better Moses, to stand in the breach for me. Thank you that I belong to a new covenant with you. Help me see my idols for the useless things they are, and be drawn to you again by 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.