The Daily Liturgy
Friday, February 2, 2024
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, 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: Proverbs 25
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Mark 2:1-12
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, without you I am dead in sin, unable to make myself well. But you have the authority to forgive sins, and the power to heal my sick heart. I praise you as the healer, restorer, and Redeemer of all creation.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 136
Prayer of Consecration
O God: thank you for the repetitive rhythm of this psalm. It’s like the cadence of walking, or swinging on a swing, or swaying with a fussy baby. Everything happens, from the glorious to the mundane, because Your steadfast love endures forever. I’m made to move - to have my being - in this rhythm. I’m meant to internalize it, chew on it, meditate on it, and mutter it to myself, so that it’s as native to me as my own heartbeat. Lord, silence whatever other songs are in my head, and teach me to move to the cadence of your steadfast 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.
Thursday, February 1, 2024
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, 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: Isaiah 40:21-31
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 1:18-31
Prayer of Adoration:
O Lord: I rejoice today in the folly and scandal of the cross. Thank you that your foolishness is wiser than men, and your weakness is stronger than men. By your doing, I am in Christ Jesus; He is my wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. I rest and rejoice in him alone.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 112
Prayer of Consecration
As I meditate on this psalm, I long to be like the righteous man it describes. I want to delight in your commands and deal generously with everyone. I would love to be steady and unmoved in the face of difficult times, shining like a light. And yet I know my struggles and fears, my failures and shortcomings. So thank you, Lord Jesus Christ, that you perfectly embodied this ideal on my behalf. You are the one whose righteousness endures forever. You are the one who is gracious and merciful, never moved, always steadfast, abundantly generous. And You are re-making me in your likeness. Because I am united with you, I am becoming more and more like the righteous person this psalm describes. So today, I surrender to your transforming work in my life. Make me a little more generous than yesterday; a little more steady-in-faith than yesterday; a little more righteous than yesterday. Help me today to fear you and walk in your commandments, by the grace of the Holy Spirit. 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, January 31, 2024
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
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: Proverbs 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: 1 Corinthians 1:1-18
Prayer of Adoration:
O God: adore you for your faithfulness to your people. Thank you that you promise to sustain me until the end, and present me guiltless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. I delight in your sustaining grace.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 65
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, I thank you that from your own abundance, you make the desert places overflow. The rain falls, the crops grow, the earth rejoices. In the same way, this psalm reminds me that when my soul feels dry and empty like the wilderness, I must not give up hope. In due season, I’ll know your abundance again. So I ask today for an outpouring of your refreshing grace - in my own soul, and in the souls of those I love. Satisfy us with the abundance, beauty, and goodness of your house, O God. Awaken our worship, engage our affections, and bring renewal to our hearts. Let the springtime of your grace blossom in dry and weary souls. And now, go with me into the work of this day, and enlarge my capacity to see and rejoice in your blessing. Keep me from all evil, and let me walk faithfully 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.
Tuesday, January 30, 2024
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 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: Isaiah 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: Matthew 5:13-20
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I worship you as the one who fulfills the Law and the Prophets. Rather than abolish God’s holy law, you achieve and embody the fullness of God’s commandments. Thank you that in you I am made righteous.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 53
Prayer of Consecration
O God, this psalm reminds me that you look down from heaven and see both the fools who spurn you and the godly who seek after you. You understand the complexity of each human heart, and you draw near to those who are looking for you. I humbly pray that you would give me the grace to continually search after you and walk closely with you today and throughout my life. Keep me from being like the fool, who says there is no God. Remind me that in Jesus, you have restored the fortunes of your people - salvation HAS come out of Zion! So let me rejoice and be glad. Ground my soul in your steadfast love and strengthen me in the hope of 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.
Monday, January 29, 2024
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
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: Micah 6:1-8
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 2 John 1:4-11
Prayer of Adoration:
O Lord my God, I adore you for your promise to protect your church. Out of love you called a people, out of love you saved them, and out of love you keep them. Many deceivers have gone into the world; but through your Word and your Spirit, you help your people abide in the teaching of Christ.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 145
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, with the psalmist I affirm that you’re worthy of praise forever. Day in, day out, moment to moment, I want my life to continually express a worshipful awareness of you. Give me the grace to commend you to the next generation, so that the younger people in my life would see how thoroughly you satisfy. Remind me of your kindness to the generation behind me, so that I might walk with you more confidently. Fill my mind, my emotions, and my speech with fresh appreciation and love for you. And then let that love be displayed in words that declare your greatness; attitudes that reflect your beauty; and actions that seek 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.
Saturday, January 27, 2024
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
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: Isaiah 29:13-24
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: 1 Peter 2:2-12
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus: I worship you today as the Cornerstone. You are the stone rejected by men, but chosen by God and laid in Zion. To some, you are a rock of stumbling; but to your people, you are chosen and precious. Thank you that whoever believes in you will not be put to shame!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 84
Prayer of Consecration
Lord God, a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere. In the time this Psalm was written, the Psalmist had to choose between being in your house and being elsewhere. But now, in Jesus, you have come near; you dwell among your people. And so I don’t have to choose between dwelling in your courts and being away from your house. Rather, in the very mundane and ordinary parts of this day, I can experience the presence of your Spirit with me always. So give me special grace to sense your presence today. Draw my awareness back to you even as I do the tasks at hand. Cultivate in me a deepening delight in your nearness, and a deepening communion with you throughout the day. Keep me from all evil today; let me not dwell in the tents of wickedness. And in the times when my desire for you is weak and I cannot feel your presence, let me rest in your good and gracious promises. O Lord God of hosts, hear my prayer; 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, January 26, 2024
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: I confess that I often honor you with my lips while my heart is far from you. I am content to appear righteous instead of truly being righteous. I repent of my sin and my self-love. Please search my heart, examine my motives, and forgive my faults. Awaken me to your glory, and send your Spirit to renew and change my heart. Help me to hear your voice today above the clamor of this world, and follow only you. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Deuteronomy 18:15-22
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: Mark 1:29-45
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus: I adore you for your power AND your compassion. Not only do you have the strength to heal and deliver; but you are moved with mercy toward the needy. In you, sinners find rest, healing, and forgiveness.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 71
Prayer of Consecration
I thank you, Lord, that you care for me in every season of my life. Whether I’m newly following you, or have walked with you for a lifetime, you prove to me again and again that I can trust you. This doesn’t mean that life is easy or perfect. This psalm speaks honestly of troubles and calamities, acknowledging that life is hard. I know that I will face suffering, even tragedy, so help me to respond to hard times by clinging tightly to you. Remind me of your faithful care in years gone by, so that I can be strengthened when I feel afraid. Fill my mind and heart with songs of gratitude, so that I might remember and celebrate your lovingkindness. I entrust myself to you today; keep me in your care, and let my tongue speak of your righteous help all the day long.
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, January 25, 2024
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
O Lord, I acknowledge before you my sin, my wounds, and my weakness. I need your forgiveness; I need your healing; I need your strength. In Christ, you draw near to the weak and needy. You are merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. Forgive my sin, for Jesus’ sake. Heal my wounds, for Jesus’ sake. Show your strength in my weakness, for Jesus’ sake. By your Spirit, empower me today to delight in you and to obey your will, seeking your glory above all else. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Proverbs 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: Galatians 1:1-12
Prayer of Adoration:
My God and Father: I praise you for the marvelous good news of the gospel. There is only one gospel, through which you call sinners to yourself; and one name under heaven by which we may be saved - the name of Jesus Christ. To Him be glory, honor, and praise.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 21
Prayer of Consecration
O God: in this Psalm you point my attention to Jesus, the new and better king. You gave him the desire of his heart, which he ardently pursued when he was on earth by his prayer, his actions, and his suffering. And as I slow down to ponder this, I realize: we are his desire. Jesus came to seek a people for himself: a people which includes me, and the company of believers through all time. Jesus’ heart belongs to us, and to the work of our redemption. Now in heaven his desire is granted him, for he sees his beloved coming to be with him where he is. Lord, warm my heart in response to your love. Awaken in me a corresponding passion to be with you. The desires of the Lord Jesus were from his heart, and you heard them. Make my heart right before you, so that in my case also, you’ll fulfill the request of my lips. In your strength I rejoice today. 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, January 24, 2024
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 my Father, I confess that in my weakness and unbelief I have lived by my own strength rather than by the power of your resurrection. I admit my self-reliance, and I turn from it. By your Spirit, so draw my heart to you, so guide my mind, so fill my imagination, so control my will, that I may be wholly yours, utterly dedicated to you; and then use me as you will, for your glory and the welfare of your people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Jeremiah 1:4-10
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 5:1-12
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus: thank you for these words of deep comfort. To the poor, the meek, the hungry, the mournful, you promise blessing and satisfaction. I rejoice in the beauty and wisdom of your words.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 15
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord, help me embrace both sides of the vision this Psalm puts forward. On the one hand, I know that I am unworthy to approach you on your holy hill. I don’t have clean hands or a pure heart. Even my best efforts to do the right thing are mixed with pride and foolishness. So thank you that you sent Jesus down from your holy hill to walk blamelessly among us, to speak the truth, and to enact the obedience that we cannot. Thank you that his righteousness covers our sins and reconciles us to you. On the other hand, I know that this Psalm paints a picture of the kind of life that pleases you. It’s not just a mirror to reveal my shortcomings; it’s a map to show me how to walk in holiness. So let me embrace its vision! Today, let me do what is right. Let me speak truth in my heart. Let me not slander with my tongue. Help me do no evil to my neighbor. Help me despise what is vile, honor what is good, and protect the poor and vulnerable. Let me do all this by the grace of my Savior, who died and rose again to free me for a life of joyful obedience.
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, January 23, 2024
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 God: You created me in your image, with a mind to know you, a heart to love you, and a will to serve you. But my knowledge is imperfect, my love inconstant, my obedience incomplete. Day by day, I fail to grow into your likeness. I confess my failure to glorify you as you designed me to. In your tender love, forgive me by the mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ. Strengthen me by your Spirit to walk in a manner worthy of the calling I have received, for the glory of your name. Amen
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 56:1-8
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Luke 4:14-21
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus: I glorify you because you are the fulfillment of all the prophetic hopes of the Scriptures. In you has come liberty to the captives, sight to the blind, and liberty to the oppressed. What good news this is!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 144
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, I come to this psalm as a student and disciple, ready to learn from David’s pattern of prayer. I recognize in myself the same concerns and desires that animate this prayer. At the beginning of the psalm, David is facing his enemies; he fears trouble. So he turns his meditation to the splendor and might of the Lord. As we pray with him, we see the mountains smoke and the arrows of the God fly like lightning. Then he asks God for household blessing and prosperity. We see a safe, flourishing community with abundant food and healthy children. I, too, recognize in myself the fear of trouble and the desire for security and prosperity. Lord, help me pray like David, with great confidence and intimacy. Where I face trouble today, help me meditate on your greatness. Where I long for security and prosperity, help me lean into your promises of blessing for those who fear you. Blessed are the people whose God is the Lord! 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, January 22, 2024
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
Merciful Father, although you have promised me everlasting joy, I confess that I am often lazy, apathetic, and hard-hearted. Deliver me, O God, from a slothful mind, from all lukewarmness, and all dejection of spirit. I know these cannot but deaden my love to you; mercifully free my heart from them, and give me a lively, zealous, active, and cheerful spirit; that I may vigorously perform whatever you command, thankfully suffer whatever you choose for me, and be ardent to obey your holy love in all things.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 41:1-20
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 12:18-29
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord God: I adore you for the heavenly Jerusalem; for the innumerable angels in festal gathering; for the assembly of those who are enrolled in heaven; and for Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 101
Prayer of Consecration
O God, like all of Scripture, this psalm is meant to shape my desires and capture my imagination. Help me see clearly this picture of a wise king ruling well. He’s singing of love and justice. His heart, his royal court, and his people are characterized by integrity and truth. Worthless things, deception, and pride are kept out. The people dwell securely because of his faithfulness. David wrote this psalm, but he couldn’t fulfill its vision. It points beyond him to Jesus, the truly wise king who rules with steadfast love and justice. And when Jesus rules in MY soul, he helps ME display these qualities as well. Human leaders may deceive, struggle, and fail, dimming my hopes for a good king. But when I think of the joy, wisdom, and power of Jesus, I find myself willing to follow him anywhere. Jesus: bring your good kingdom to bear in my life today. Reign and rule in my soul today, and make me more like 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, January 20, 2024
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
Gracious and merciful God: I confess to you today my lack of faith. You have saved me by grace, yet still I try to earn your favor by my works. You have met my deepest need in Christ, yet still I doubt your fatherly care. You have given me your Spirit, yet still I walk according to the flesh. Forgive my lack of faith, and strengthen me by your grace, that I may walk with you in freedom, joy, and worship. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Nehemiah 8:1-10
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 1:14-28
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus, I worship you for your authority. Thank you that all authority in heaven and on earth belongs to you. Your power over evil is total and absolute; and for that I praise and rejoice in you.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 62
Prayer of Consecration
The refrain of this psalm, O Lord, beckons me to wait for you in silence. Sometimes that means waiting for you in the silence of emptiness and suffering, when my usual sense of communion with you has gone quiet. Sometimes it means fighting to clear the noise, both without and within, so that I can find the center of silent prayer. I live in a world filled with noise and distraction; and my own hopes are often attached to lesser things. So make me a seeker of silence. Reform my focus and my desires so that my soul waits for you alone. Meet me in the silence in such a powerful way that I am drawn back to your presence again and again. Let me not be content to know about you; rather, help me KNOW you as my rock, my refuge, my salvation and my glory. “For God alone my soul waits in silence… He alone is my rock and my 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.
Friday, January 19, 2024
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
Father, I come before you this day with a humble and contrite heart, which you will not despise. Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions. Against you, you only, have I sinned, and done what is evil in your sight. Wash me, that I may be whiter than snow. Create in me a clean heart, and renew in me a right spirit. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and give me a willing spirit to sustain me. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Jonah 3
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 1:16-32
Prayer of Adoration:
Almighty God: I praise you for your righteous character. Since the creation of the world, your eternal power and divine nature have been clearly seen. Because humans have suppressed the truth, you have given us over to our own lusts; this, too, is a manifestation of your righteousness. Thank you that you are the same yesterday, today, and forever.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 27
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord, this Psalm is such good news for those who are afraid; those who feel opposed; those who feel forsaken. David wrote this psalm when he was under military threat. He had every reason to fear for his life, yet he responded by preaching to himself that the Lord was his stronghold. As I read this psalm, I invite it likewise to read me, to act as my teacher and guide. O Lord, give me the grace to seek your face earnestly. Strengthen my confidence that I’ll see your goodness in the land of the living. In all the places where I feel forsaken and let down; in all the instances when I feel alone; lift high my head and give me great confidence in your love for me. “Teach me your way O Lord, and lead me on a level path.” Let me not turn aside toward temptation and sin today; help me walk faithfully with 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.
Thursday, January 18, 2024
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
Merciful God, I confess that I have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what I have done, and by what I have left undone. I have not loved you with my whole heart; I have not loved my neighbor as myself. In your mercy, forgive what I have been, help me amend what I am, and direct what I shall be, so that I may delight in your will and walk in your ways, for the glory of your holy name. Through Jesus Christ our Lord: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Proverbs 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: Matthew 4:12-23
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I adore you, because in your coming, “the people dwelling in darkness have seen a great light.” In you a new age has come, a new kingdom has arrived, a new people has been formed. You are the Light of the World - thank you for bringing light to my darkness.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 19
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord, this psalm calls my attention to the natural world, which vividly displays your goodness and power. I see your creative joy and energy flowing as everything on earth benefits from your common grace. Then the psalm turns to your law, offering a blazing vision of your people living well in balanced, right relationship with you. Finally the psalm focuses on my inner person. It reminds me that your deep wisdom aligns the crooked places in my soul and makes me whole. I’m not good at discerning my own errors, so I add my prayer to the psalmist’s: keep me from presumptuous sins today. Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in your sight. Set me free from speech that isn’t honoring, and give me victory over thoughts that aren’t beautiful and righteous. By your good Spirit, align my interior life to reflect the goodness of your creation and your law, 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, January 17, 2024
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
O Lord, I confess that my heart is restless. I have sought comfort and security in created things rather than in you, the Creator. I have suppressed the truth in unrighteousness and exchanged Your glory for lesser things. Forgive my sin, O God, and subdue my restless heart. By your Spirit, strengthen me today for greater obedience to you, greater delight in your goodness, greater trust in your promises. Help me to rest in my adoption as your child. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 49:8-18
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: Hebrews 11
Prayer of Adoration:
Throughout all generations, O Lord God, you are faithful. I worship you for your steadfast love toward those who trust you, rely on you, and believe in you. Thank you that in your Son, I have received the fulfillment of your promises and the assurance of my hope.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 41
Prayer of Consecration
I’m reminded by this psalm, Lord, that there’s a law of sowing and reaping at work in your kingdom. Although I am saved entirely by grace, totally apart from my deserving, I see that in matters of blessing, you measure it back to me with my own bushel. As I practice generosity with an open hand, you return generous blessings to me. Here’s the portion of all those who are made like their Lord: they bless and they will be blessed, they preserve and will be preserved, they watch over the lives of others and they themselves will be precious in the sight of the Lord. Make me a student of this principle as I go about my work today. As you’ve lavished love and care on me, give me a generous spirit for those around me, so that I might come more and more to resemble 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.
Tuesday, January 16, 2024
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 of heaven and earth, remember me, cold of heart and impure, in your Kingdom. Deliver me from every ignorance and heedlessness, from pettiness of soul and stony hardness of heart. O Lord, save me from temptation; receive me in repentance; grant me pure thoughts; that I may love You with all my heart and soul and that I may obey your will in all things to the glory of your name. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 49:1-7
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: Ephesians 3:1-12
Prayer of Adoration:
Sovereign God: I adore you for the mystery kept hidden through ages and generations, but now revealed in the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. In Jesus, the true Israel, the Gentiles are welcomed in to your covenant promises! I revel in your manifold wisdom which is made known through the church as your people are gathered into one family in Christ.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 139
Prayer of Consecration
O God: today I invite you to search me and know me. You’re already intimately acquainted with everything that will happen today. You’re already aware of my every thought and word. Where shall I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? I confess all the ways that I live as though I can hide from you; as though you don’t already know my deepest parts. In reality, you know me more deeply than I know myself. So transform me through your intimate knowledge and steadfast love. When I’m tempted to pursue satisfaction in false things, don’t let me wander. Hem me in, behind and before, and let your right hand hold me fast. Whether my life today requires me to travel great distances, or whether I hold my outpost in one place, you’re here with me. Lead me in the way everlasting.
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, January 15, 2024
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
Merciful God, I confess before you that I have sinned. I have sinned in what I have thought and said; in the wrong I have done and in the good I have not done. I have sinned in ignorance; I have sinned in weakness; I have sinned through my own deliberate fault. I repent and turn to you. Forgive me, for the sake of my merciful Savior Jesus. By your Spirit, transform my desires, renew my affections, and strengthen my obedience, for the glory of your name.
Old Testament Reading: Proverbs 20
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: John 3:1-21
Prayer of Adoration:
Thank you, Father, for sending your Son into the world, that the world might be saved through him. Thank you, Lord Jesus, that you were lifted up, so that whoever believes in you might have eternal life. Thank you, Holy Spirit, for the new birth which makes it possible to enter the kingdom of God.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 121
Prayer of Consecration
I lift up my eyes to you, Lord, as I enter this day. Whether the hours ahead bring trouble of various kinds, or quiet rest, you are my keeper. As I face temptation today, hold me steady; don’t let my foot be moved. As evil threatens me today, guard my life; don’t let me be overcome. As I face the heat of life today, be my shelter; don’t let my soul dry up. Thank you for the promise that you never slumber or sleep; your care for me is constant, and your presence reliable. Every day, this world tempts me to be my own helper, or to deny my need for help entirely. So ground me today in the promise that “my help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth.” I rejoice in you, O Lord my God.
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, January 13, 2024
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
O God: forgive my doubting, questioning heart. Like those who witnessed Jesus' miracles of healing yet spurned belief, I too have seen wonders, yet have hardened my heart. I confess the way my pessimism has caused others to doubt themselves and your Spirit; the times my criticism has wounded others; the times my dejection has dampened the enthusiasm of those inspired by your Word and work. O God, forgive me, and in your mercy, renew me, that with an open heart I may believe and never pose an obstacle to the faith of others. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Proverbs 19
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: John 1:35-51
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, following you is a journey into deeper wonder and worship. Who has seen your limits? Who can know the depth of your wisdom? I treasure you as my teacher who guides me in the way of eternal life.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 36
Prayer of Consecration
Thank you, Lord, for your steadfast love. This poem shows the frailty of the evil person, contrasted with the immensity of your goodness. I want to be instructed by both images - taught to turn away from the troubling picture of evil and drawn by what the psalm calls the river of your delights. Show me how to take refuge in the shadow of your wings. I feel my own scarcity; lavish me with your abundance. Give me an ever-widening aperture to take in your light. Continue your steadfast love to me. Remind me of your faithfulness that reaches the clouds, and your judgements that extend to the deep. Let these realities strengthen and satisfy me as I approach the work of this day, 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.
Friday, January 12, 2024
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, 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 62:1-5
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: John 1:19-34
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus Christ: I behold you - and adore you - as the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! You are the Eternal Son of God, who baptizes your people with the Holy Spirit. Glory to you, O Christ; glory to you.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 2
Prayer of Consecration
Oh Lord, the nations rage today just as they did long ago when this psalm was written. Rulers and kings plot destruction and violence, just as they have always done. Your people are no strangers to difficult and dangerous times. And yet we rest secure in your promise that you have set your king on Zion, your holy hill, and have given the nations as his possession. The gates of hell will not prevail against your church, and the kingdoms of this world are no match for the kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ. Strengthen me - and all your faithful people around the world - with the certainty that you’ve established your kingdom forever. We long for the day when you will judge the world in righteousness. Until that day, let us “serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with trembling,” bowing before king Jesus and offering him our lives in joyful surrender.
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, January 11, 2024
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
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. I have 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: Genesis 1
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: Acts 19:1-10
Prayer of Adoration:
Holy Spirit: thank you that you fill all who are baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus. Your power and presence are not for a select few; you delight to take up residence in all who belong to the Lord Jesus Christ. I worship you, with the Father and the Son; one God in three persons, now and forever: Amen.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 125
Prayer of Consecration
God: thank you that you surround your people, like the mountains surround Jerusalem. What an image of protection and security! Thank you that today, as I venture out into the world, you surround me with your presence and your protection. And thank you that this Psalm is not just for me; you surround your people everywhere. We are wrapped in your love and secure in your Son and empowered by your Spirit. I don’t know all the enemies that threaten me today. But I DO know that in this world I will have trouble. My adversaries - both physical and spiritual - are real and strong. So help me trust in You today. Let me be like Mount Zion, which cannot be moved. Remind me that it’s not the strength of my trust that saves me; it’s WHO I trust in. “As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds his people.” Surround me with your power and comfort today, through the presence of your Holy Spirit.
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.