The Daily Liturgy
Monday, February 26, 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 of mercy, whose Son, Jesus Christ, beckons me with the wide embrace of his love: I confess that I have been a wayward child. I have disobeyed your commands; I have been deaf to your call; I have been cold to your love. In thought, word, and deed, I have hurt others and dishonored your name. In your great mercy, receive me again as your beloved child, not because I am worthy, but for the sake of Jesus, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 15:1-18
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: Luke 13:22-35
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus: I praise you for your resolute faithfulness to your mission. No amount of human cunning or political scheming could deter you from setting your face toward Jerusalem and the cross that awaited you there. Thank you that because of your faithfulness, I have been redeemed.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 3
Prayer of Consecration
O God: thank you for the way this psalm instructs me in times of uncertainty and fear. The psalmist’s enemies gather on every side, rising relentlessly against him. Yet he responds, not with fear, but with a radical confidence in the protective care of God. Salvation, he says, belongs to the Lord. And he lays down to sleep. As I confront my own stresses and anxieties, I thank you that you are a shield about me. I lift my cares and concerns to you. Be my glory. Lift my head. Let me sleep deeply, knowing that you sustain me and surround me with your salvation. Remind me that because I belong to Jesus, I can be at peace in the midst of my enemies, resting in your loving care. Finally, God: please break the teeth of the wicked. Deliver the vulnerable from those who would harm them, and look after all who are in need 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.
Saturday, February 24, 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
Heavenly Father, I enter this day full of thanksgiving, because you have redeemed my life by your mercy and grace. I worship you for such a great salvation even as I come to you in repentance. Hear my confession, Father. Forgive me for under-believing your gospel and over-believing my worries. Forgive me for being slow to listen and quick to judgement. Forgive me for failing to love you and your church. Have mercy on me, Lord, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Ecclesiastes 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: Luke 13:1-9
Prayer of Adoration:
Sovereign God: I worship you for the justice of your judgment. You will not let the guilty go unpunished; yet you are patient, desiring that all should come to repentance. Thank you that your wrath is not arbitrary or random but is rooted in your eternal, unchanging goodness.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 132
Prayer of Consecration
O God: this Psalm celebrates your covenant promises to David. You told him, “One of the sons of your body I will set on your throne.” And I know that Jesus, the Son of David, inherits this promise and fulfills this Psalm. So today, I renew my submission to King Jesus, the one who has been crowned Lord of all. I confess that sometimes my obedience can be slothful, weak, and half-hearted. But as I hear this Psalm, I am inspired by David’s zeal for your house. He promised not to give rest to his eyes until he established Zion as your dwelling place. Likewise, let me be resolute in my devotion to you today. Help me diligently offer You my full and complete obedience, rejoicing in your rule and reign and purposing to serve you wholeheartedly in whatever comes my way.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Friday, February 23, 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
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: Ecclesiastes 2
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 3:17-4:1
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus: I praise you for your transforming power. I rejoice that because I am united with you, my citizenship is in heaven. By grace, I stand firm in you, and I await the day when you will transform my lowly body to be like your glorious body.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 121
Prayer of Consecration
God, today I lift up my eyes and ask: from where does my help come? My help comes from you, the one who keeps me. Thank you that today, no matter what I face, I can count on your sustaining grace to hold me steady, to give me strength, and to keep me grounded in your promises. You never slumber or sleep; you are always vigilant. In Jesus, you WILL keep me from all evil. Though momentary evils may be my lot, my future is incredibly bright. Though trouble, sickness, pain, and even death may come my way, none of them has the final say; for in Jesus Christ you have swallowed up death and given me life eternal. My life is in your hands. So today, whatever I face, let me rest confidently in your sovereignty and trust in your good providence. Do not let my foot be moved from the narrow path of faith and 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.
Thursday, February 22, 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
Holy Spirit: because of my union with Christ, you dwell within me. Yet I confess that I still live according to the flesh. I do not live in conscious dependence upon you. I do not walk in vital communion with you. I am self-reliant and self-trusting, more defined by this age than by the age to come. Forgive me, Gracious Father, for neglecting the gift of your Spirit. Today, fill me afresh with the Spirit’s presence. Revive my soul. Renew my zeal. Release your power in me, for the glory of Your name.
Old Testament Reading: Exodus 20:1-21
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: Philippians 3:4b-14
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, all things pale in comparison with the surpassing worth of knowing you. Through faith your righteousness is my righteousness; your power is my power; your resurrection is my resurrection. Because you have made me your own, I adore you.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 102
Prayer of Consecration
God, I praise you for your everlasting consistency. The heavens and earth will wear out like a garment, but you will remain. Your years have no end. Help me remember that most of what I give myself to in this life is temporary, transient, passing away. It’s inevitable that some of my energy must be given to things that are fleeting. But I want to give the best of my time and energy to things that are eternal: your Word, your people, and your kingdom. So help me today to prioritize your Word and your work. Help me attend to the children and young people around me, looking for opportunities to declare your name to a coming generation. Help me be mindful of the brevity of life, and live with eternity in mind. Arise and have pity on your people; build up your church, and use me however you will to further your purposes in the world.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Wednesday, February 21, 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: 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: Lamentations 1:17-22
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: Romans 9:30-10:21
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus Christ: I praise you that everyone who believes in you will not be put to shame. Through your creation and through your Word, your voice has gone out into all the earth, so that all who call on your name may be saved. Thank you for your abundant generosity to those you fear you.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 73
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, this Psalm reminds me that the prosperity of the wicked is short-lived. And I need to be reminded of that, because often the world doesn’t seem fair. The righteous struggle, and the wicked seem to prosper. But stepping back to view things from an eternal perspective, I see things with greater wisdom. Momentary flourishing is different from true happiness. Your justice will prevail; you set the wicked in slippery places and make them fall to ruin. And so I say with the Psalmist today: “Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you.” I say this in faith, because actually there ARE things on earth that I desire; but in my heart of hearts, I rest in your goodness. “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” In my weakness, you are strong; though my heart is pulled in many directions, you anchor me. Those who are far from you may appear to flourish, but real life is found in being near to you. So today, I remind myself of that truth, and I reach out in faith to embrace your nearness.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Tuesday, February 20, 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
Almighty God: I cannot keep silent about my sin; when I do, my bones waste away and your hand is heavy upon me. So I will acknowledge my sin to you, and I will not cover my iniquity. Today, I acknowledge the sin of ENTITLEMENT. I live with a demanding spirit that grabs, clutches, and expects, rather than with a generous spirit that thanks you and blesses others. Forgive me, O Lord, by the mercy of Jesus, who did not regard equality with you as something to be grasped, but emptied himself that I might be filled. Fill me up today with the freedom and joy of grace, for Your name’s sake: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Lamentations 1:1-16
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Romans 5:12-19
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus: I praise you for being better than Adam; better than Moses. Where sin brings death, your free gift brings life. Where sin brings condemnation, you bring justification. Thank you for your grace which abounds for many.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 27
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord: as David wrote this psalm, he was under military threat, with every reason to fear for his life. Yet he responded by preaching to himself that the Lord was his stronghold. He describes his enemies gathered around him, prepared for war; but instead of fearing, he sets his mind on the temple. He asks to see the face of the Lord. As I read this psalm, I invite this psalm likewise to read me, to act as my teacher and guide. O Lord, give me the grace to seek your face even when my heart is pounding and my thoughts are scattered. When I ground myself in your light and beauty, I find the strength to wait patiently for you. Strengthen my confidence that I’ll see your goodness in the land of the living. Teach me what it means to abide in you, so that union with you becomes my daily habit. Fashion my inner life according to the example of this psalm and help me practice honest, confident prayer when I’m afraid today.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Monday, February 19, 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 Jesus, I confess to you the shallowness of my repentance. I am content to deal with surface sins, rather than exploring the dark contours of my inner being. I am content to offer words of repentance, rather than bringing forth the fruit of repentance. Humble me greatly today. Reveal to me the depth of my depravity and the strength of my idolatry, that I may drink more deeply of your mercy and delight more fully in the beauty of Jesus Christ my Savior. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 9:1-17
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: Mark 8:27-9:1
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I bow before you as God’s anointed King. Your claim on me is total, and as your disciple I submit my whole life to you. Thank you for the a salvation that is worth more than the whole world.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 10
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord, thank you that your word offers a spacious invitation to human confusion and complaint. As I pray along, I find myself learning to be more honest with you about my troubles, doubts, and frustrations. At the same time, the psalm grounds itself resolutely in your goodness and care, teaching me to persist in hope. These two streams flow together. My world isn’t very different from the one described in this psalm. I, too, see injustice and exploitation all around, seemingly unchecked. But before I deplore the sins of others, Lord, give me insight into my own soul, that I might deplore sin in myself first. I pray with the psalmist: “Arise, O Lord, and lift up your hand.” Let justice roll down for the oppressed and the fatherless. Purify my interior being, so that I might live and work as a citizen of your kingdom, with your ways alive and vibrant in my soul.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Saturday, February 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
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: Ecclesiastes 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: 1 Peter 3:8-22
Prayer of Adoration:
I praise you, O God, for your providential care for your people. Who can harm those whom you have declared righteous? Who can condemn those whom you have given a good conscience? Thank you for the grace which saves, protects, and keeps, until the end of time.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 32
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord, this psalm rejoices in the relief of a conscience that’s completely clear before you. I’ve felt the freedom of dealing honestly with my sin and knowing that it is covered! Yet I confess that I seldom engage repentance with that kind of wholeheartedness. I’m prone to keep silent about my sin. My heart is stubborn and foolish. Lord, I long to live a different way, not isolated by sin, but enjoying the free-flowing communion of a clear conscience and intimate friendship with you. Help me to confess my sins to you more readily. Give me a humble and teachable spirit. Counsel me, and keep your eye upon me. Teach me the blessing and freedom of repentance. Help me to really comprehend the steadfast love of the Lord, which surrounds the one who trusts in you. With your help, I will cultivate repentance, humility, gladness, and joy in my heart today.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Friday, February 16, 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 Father, I come into your presence with deep gratitude, for I am no longer under the law but under grace. Resting in that truth, I freely confess my brokenness and my weakness before you. Instead of worshipping you, I have put myself at the center of my life. Instead of honoring others, I have withheld words of blessing and spoken words of harm. Have mercy on me, for Jesus’ sake. By your Holy Spirit, awaken in me today passionate worship, joyful obedience, and wholehearted love for others. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 58:1-12
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Matthew 17:1-8, 22-23
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus, I adore you in the beauty of your holiness and the power of your majesty. As the radiance of God’s glory, you have brought light to a dark world and life to people dead in sin. You are God’s beloved son; I will listen to you.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 25
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord, prayer is the ascent of the soul toward you; and I join with this psalm to lift my mind, my heart, and my soul upward. My natural instinct is to focus on the things of this world. I constantly give my attention to lesser things. I obsessively look for opportunities to escape from reality. I know deep in my bones that these things are cheap. Insubstantial. They really can’t bear the weight of my desires. Make me like the psalmist, whose desire and longing is aimed toward you. Use the events of this day - the good things, as well as the loneliness and trouble - to change my sense of what is worthy of longing, so that I lose my taste for lesser things. Sharpen my hunger for the substance, beauty and weight - the glory - of you. I know you are good in my intellect; teach me these things at the deepest level of my experience. Guard my soul, O Lord. With the psalmist I say, may integrity and uprightness preserve me; for I wait for you.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Thursday, February 15, 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, you promise to work all things for my good, Yet I confess that instead of delighting in your grace, I find reasons to be unhappy. I have filled my life with busyness and scheduled myself into exhaustion. I have been quick to judge others and slow to forgive them. Open my eyes to Your glory which is all around me, and to Your love which is smiling through all things. Renew in me a sense of wonder in You and your good creation. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 2:15-17 & 3:1-7
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Luke 4:1-13
Prayer of Adoration:
I praise you, Lord Jesus, for your obedience to the Father; for your strength in temptation; and for your resistance to the devil. Because of your humility, I follow you as my example. Because of your faithfulness, I love you as my King. Because of your triumph, I worship you as my God.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 6
Prayer of Consecration
Thank you, Lord, for giving me prayers and psalms that teach me to express repentance. I live in a culture that dreads even the idea of guilt, and goes to great lengths to self-justify. But there’s a deeper wisdom in repentance that allows me to speak the truth about myself to you. Knowing that you’ve already seen and made provision for my sin, I can lay my burden down. Even in my troubled state, I can follow the path of David, who didn’t hide from you, but knew you well enough to appeal for your mercy. Thank you that just as you heard his weeping, you also hear mine. As you accepted his prayer, so you accept mine, through the mediation of the Lord Jesus Christ. Where I need to make amends to others, help me do so. Where I need to change my actions, help me do so. Fill my inner person with the sense of your loving presence to an ever-increasing degree, so that my most familiar sins become alien to me. Make them bitter, and yourself sweet, for Jesus’ sake.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Wednesday, February 14, 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, today I enter the season of Lent mindful of my sin, my weakness, and my mortality. I confess that I often avoid introspection, reflection, and mindfulness. I do not number my days or consider the brevity of life. So today, I invite You to humble me; to chasten me; to convict me. Bring me low in deep awareness of my fragile and faltering condition. May dust and ashes point the way to joy and gladness through union with your eternal Son. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Joel 2:1-2, 12-17
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:16-6:10
Prayer of Adoration:
I magnify you, O God, because in Christ you have reconciled the world to yourself, and given your people the ministry of reconciliation. For our sake you made him who knew no sin, to be sin. In Christ, the old has passed away; the new has come!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 51
Prayer of Consecration
O God, this psalm is a cry of sorrow over sin and a plea for forgiveness. As I join my prayer to it, guide me into right repentance. Sharpen my conviction over my sin. Heal and restore the sensitivity of my conscience. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and give me renewed passion for total integrity before you. You are delighted by truth in my inward being; you want me to learn wisdom in my secret heart, so that I can know true authenticity and freedom. Wherever repentance is needed in my life, I welcome the searching eye of your all-knowing Spirit. It may be costly and painful, like bones breaking. But the psalm says, “let the bones that you have broken rejoice.” You’re not interested in showy acts of sacrifice; you love a broken and contrite heart. And you have promised to forgive all my sin through the mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ. So restore to me the joy of your salvation today, for Jesus’ sake.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Tuesday, February 13, 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: you have commanded me to love my neighbor as myself. But today, as I contemplate my lack of love, I am humbled to the dust. Too often, I avoid others when they bother me. I ignore others when they don’t interest me. I use others when they benefit me. I reject others when they sin against me. My love is shallow and self-serving. Forgive me, O God. Thank you that in Christ, you have loved me with a love incomprehensible. May your love fill me, and transform me, for the glory of your name. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Mark 4:1-20
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I adore you, for in you the mystery of God’s salvation has been made known. You have revealed your kingdom to the simple, the lowly, and the humble, and have given your people ears to hear and understand. Thank you for making yourself known to me!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 37:1-22
Prayer of Consecration
O God, your word is a powerful corrective for my anxious, worried mind. In this psalm, you wisely and gently doctor my soul. When I look at the world on my own, I can’t understand why people who do evil seem to flourish, achieving success and the affirmation of the world even as they dishonor you. It seems like the godly should prosper, but often they’re the ones with the most struggle. Why? This psalm prompts me to look beyond the surface to deeper realities, reminding me that your kingdom operates on a different economy. Justice and righteousness are coming as surely as the new day will break. In the meantime, help me stop fretting over the situations of others, and look carefully to my own soul. Help me trust in you today, and do good, as your word says. Help me to dwell faithfully in my own place, knowing that you establish my steps and hold my hand as I wait patiently for you.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Monday, February 12, 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
Almighty God: I cannot keep silent about my sin; when I do, my bones waste away and your hand is heavy upon me. So I will acknowledge my sin to you, and I will not cover my iniquity. Today, I acknowledge the sin of ENTITLEMENT. I live with a demanding spirit that grabs, clutches, and expects, rather than with a generous spirit that thanks you and blesses others. Forgive me, O Lord, by the mercy of Jesus, who did not regard equality with you as something to be grasped, but emptied himself that I might be filled. Fill me up today with the freedom and joy of grace, for Your name’s sake: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Proverbs 29
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 1 Corinthians 8:1-13
Prayer of Adoration:
Triune God, I bow in worship and adoration before you. Father: from you and for you all things exist. Jesus: you are Lord of all creation, through whom everything has been made. Spirit: with the Father and the Son you are worshiped and glorified. Thank you for your love, which binds your people together in unity.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 34
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, this prayer invites me to meditate on your goodness, so I ask for the grace to set distractions aside and fix my inner gaze on you. As I remember your work in my life, I’m filled with gratitude because you’ve shown your goodness again and again. When I’ve called out to you in need, you’ve provided for me. I know my deep tendency to forget your faithfulness and go through the day driven by fear or stubborn self-sufficiency. Orient my heart to the truth of your goodness. When I’m crushed in spirit, remind me that you are near to the broken. I long for the kind of life described in this psalm, one that sees many good days, so I pray that you would keep me from evil today and help me pursue peace. Redeem the broken places in my life according to your word, Lord, and teach me to find my refuge in you.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Saturday, February 10, 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
Holy God: Dust I am, and to dust I shall return. I am like a flower of the field, that appears for a little while and then vanishes. But I confess my tendency to live days, weeks, even months at a time with little thought for my mortality, and little consideration for eternity. Forgive my presumption and self-reliance. Humble me to the dust, that I might be ever-mindful of my frailty, and freshly awed by your eternal, infinite beauty. Through Christ, our Lord: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Jeremiah 17:5-13
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 1 Corinthians 6:12-20
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I adore you that I am not my own but belong to you in body and soul. My whole being is yours, in life and in death, for your purposes and for your glory. Thank you that you are faithful to keep, protect, and guide me.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 149
Prayer of Consecration
Oh Lord, you invite your people to extravagantly praise you with dancing and loud music. Maybe I love to worship with this kind of joy, or maybe I’ve never worshipped this way in my whole life. Thank you that you invite us to know you so intimately and enjoy you so deeply that our inner lives flow with praise. Cultivate a joyful and wholehearted response in me and set me free from passive worship. In that spirit, help me wage war against evil using the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Before I look at the faults of others, help me to reckon humbly and truthfully with the sin in myself. Then, freed by the righteousness of Christ given to me, help me fight sin and worship you with all my heart today.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Friday, February 9, 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, I come into your presence with deep gratitude, for I am no longer under the law but under grace. Resting in that truth, I freely confess my brokenness and my weakness before you. Instead of worshipping you, I have put myself at the center of my life. Instead of honoring others, I have withheld words of blessing and spoken words of harm. Have mercy on me, for Jesus' sake. By your Holy Spirit, awaken in me today passionate worship, joyful obedience, and wholehearted love for others. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 30:18-33
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Luke 6:17-26
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus: I stand in awe of you as the master teacher. You are God’s true wisdom and true revelation. May I revere you not only as my Savior, but as my teacher and guide. Your ways are the ways of life; your words are the words of truth.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 119:121-136
Prayer of Consecration
Dear Father, the unfolding of your word gives light. So I humbly ask you to open my eyes, so I might understand more and more of it today. I want eyes to see and ears to hear, as Jesus said. Show me that your ways are wonderful, wise, and deep. Align my soul to respond to them with delight. If I’m blind to the beauty of your statutes, if your laws seem restrictive or limiting, I ask you: please help me see them in all their redemptive fullness, and through them, draw me into communion with you. Let me know you so intimately that as your word unfolds, I comprehend its beauty. Amen.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Thursday, February 8, 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
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: Proverbs 28
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 1 Corinthians 3
Prayer of Adoration:
God, I adore you as the giver of life and the object of your church’s worship. Jesus Christ, I worship you as the firm foundation upon which your church is built. Holy Spirit, I rejoice that you dwell in God’s people and make them holy.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 119:97-112
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord, this psalm reminds me that your word is given as a guide for my life: a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. I’m constantly occupied with planning the future or re-playing the past, but you know every inch of my path, and you illuminate it one step at a time with your word. Help me to walk with you patiently in this moment, alive to your presence. There are many ways in which the wicked have laid a trap for me, many kinds of temptation, but I invite you to shape my will and form my inner person so deeply that I will not stray from your commandments. You are my hiding place and my shield. Through the complications and challenges ahead of me today, keep my heart steady with love for you and my ears filled with your word. Help me walk in obedience and companionship with 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.
Wednesday, February 7, 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 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: 2 Kings 5:1-14
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: Mark 2:23-3:6
Prayer of Adoration:
I adore you, Jesus, for showing us the true meaning of the Sabbath. Thank you that you came to do good, and to open the way to God’s eternal rest. I rest in you as I await your coming Shalom.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 30
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, make me a good student of your word. This psalm has something to teach me; give me ears to hear it. Parts of it are worshipful and celebratory, but there are also hints that the Psalmist has suffered after presumptuously assuming himself to be prosperous and secure. O Lord, if I worship prosperity, security, and comfort, I humbly invite your correction. You know that complete prosperity isn’t good for my soul. Even the joys of hope need to be mixed with the pains of experience, that I might trust in you more deeply. So let me follow the pattern of the psalm: let me turn from my sin; let my repentance be met with grace and restoration; and let Your mercy be glorified. Take my shame, and dress me in the true gladness that comes from walking with 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, February 6, 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 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: Proverbs 27
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 2
Prayer of Adoration:
Holy Spirit: I worship you for revealing to me the things of God. By your power and wisdom, I have come to understand and believe the gospel. Thank you for revealing what no eye has seen and no ear has heard: the glorious things that God has prepared for those who love him!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 5
Prayer of Consecration
The psalm says, “through the abundance of your steadfast love, I will enter your house.” Thank you, Lord, that I have access to you and peace with you because of your steadfast love expressed in the work of Jesus. Someday, I will enter your house eternally; but now, I sojourn in this world, journeying toward your heavenly kingdom. So teach me to savor your steadfast love as I go through this day. I confess that in my inner world, I’ve lived as an orphan for a long time. I’ve taken care of myself by controlling others, using my power in unhealthy ways, or endlessly distracting myself. So drive a vision of your majestic temple and your steadfast love deep into my imagination. You are my protector and shield. In Jesus, I’m completely covered by your favor. Please help me take hold of your love in my inner person, and let it overflow from me into the world around me, 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, February 5, 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
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: Deuteronomy 30
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Matthew 5:13-20
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus Christ, I exalt you, because your obedience is my obedience. As the light of the world, you shine through your people, driving out darkness and drawing sinners to yourself. I kneel before you as my God, my king, and my Teacher.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 1
Prayer of Consecration
Lord: I long to obey you perfectly, avoiding the counsel of the wicked, the way of sinners, and the seat of scoffers. But I can’t meet that standard on my own. So I thank you that Jesus is the righteous man of Psalm 1, whose delight is in the law of the Lord. Through faith in him, I can live a Psalm 1 kind of life. I ask you to form my inner being so that I become more and more like Jesus. Sharpen my appetite for your law; help me meditate on it throughout the day, and make it my delight. Let me be a tree planted by streams of water, satisfied and made strong by your presence. I don’t know what this day will bring; but you know my way. Guard my steps and keep me in your truth today.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Saturday, February 3, 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
Father, for your steadfast love, I bless you. For your abundant grace, I praise you. For your daily mercies, I trust you. I ask your forgiveness today for my willful lack of love. I have ignored those less capable than me; I have resented those who have wounded me; I have withdrawn from those who are inconvenient and difficult. By Your Spirit, overcome my sin and weakness, and fill me with overflowing love, through the mercy of Jesus Christ my Savior. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 58
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Mark 2:13-22
Prayer of Adoration:
Father, I praise you for the gift of your Son, the physician come to heal the world and the bridegroom come to redeem it. The earthly ministry of Jesus is but a foretaste of his coming rule and reign. I rejoice as I await his glorious return!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 138
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord, help me today to focus my whole heart and mind on your extraordinary goodness. This psalm shows three pictures of your faithfulness: you answer me when I call; you see me and are near to me when I’m low; and you fulfill your purpose for me with enduring, everlasting love. Make your love real to me today, Lord. Set me free from the old habits, addictions, and cheap sources of comfort that interrupt my communion with you and others. Help me, Lord, as I reject those counterfeit things and fix my heart on the true consolation of your love. Fill my mind with songs that remind me of your ways; your mercy, your glory, your attentive care, your strong protection. And give me the strength of resolve and purpose to faithfully obey you today. I love you, for your steadfast love endures forever.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.