The Daily Liturgy
Wednesday, May 29, 2024
Opening Prayer:
To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul. O my God, in you I trust; let me not be put to shame; let not my enemies exult over me. Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Lord Jesus, if I say I have no sin, I deceive myself and the truth is not in me; so I humbly confess my sins today. The idols of my heart are many. I have bowed down to false gods, and looked to them to provide what only you can provide. Forgive me. Free me. Deepen my sorrow for the wrong I have done and the good I have left undone. My comfort is found in knowing that you are full of compassion, slow to anger and abounding in grace. I trust boldly in Christ my redeemer. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: 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: John 20:1-23
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus: I adore you for sending your disciples as the Father sent you. You have given us meaningful and significant work to do! And you have given us the Spirit to help us do it. Thank you for the honor of being your called-and-sent people.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 33
Prayer of Consecration
God: I take comfort today in the fact that “the eye of the Lord is on those who fear him.” I don’t find myself trusting in kings and war-horses; but I do trust in the modern version of those things - political leaders, and strong economies, and self-sufficiency, and prosperity. These are false hopes; they are not you, and they don’t watch over me with the steadfast love and care that you do. So today, I will fear you and wait on you. Let your steadfast love be upon me today - help me know it and sense it and feel it in ways that make my heart glad. May my soul wait for you today, and may I trust in your holy name.
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, May 28, 2024
Opening Prayer:
Blessed are you, O Lord; teach me your statutes! I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. Deal bountifully with your servant, that I may live and keep your word. Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Almighty God: in Jesus Christ you love me, but I have not loved you. You have given me all things, yet I have squandered your gifts. I have grieved you and caused hurt to others, and I am not worthy to be called your child. Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I am ashamed and sorry for all I have done to displease you. Cleanse me from my sin and receive me again into your household, that I might never stray from your love, but always remain within the sound of your voice. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 48
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:
Father: I adore you for sending your Son into the world, that the world might be saved through him. Thank you for the majesty and miracle of the new birth. Thank you, Holy Spirit, for bringing me from death to life and from darkness to light.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 29
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord: I praise you for the power of your voice. You spoke the world into existence with words; your voice is powerful and majestic. MY words are often trivial and ineffective; but YOUR words do things. They break the cedars and shake the wilderness and cause the deer to give birth. And when I remember that the Scriptures are your Word, I am reminded of the power they have to give life and to effect change. Forgive me for treating your word lightly; help me desire it and delight in it and listen to it! Above all, thank you for sending Jesus, the Word made flesh. He is the Way, and the Truth, and the Life, because he is the voice of the Lord in human form. May I listen to Him always.
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, May 27, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise. For you will not delight in sacrifice, or I would give it; you will not be pleased with a burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Heavenly Father, with my eyes fixed on Jesus, I ask you to forgive my sins. Forgive me for hurting people I love by my impatience, by my irritation, and by my unkept promises. Forgive me for caring more about what others think about me than what You think about me. Forgive me for being too busy to behold your beauty in Word, meditate on your mercies in Christ, and hear you call to me in the gospel. Have mercy on me, Father, in the name of Jesus Christ my Lord. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 1:1-2:3
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: Matthew 28
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus: I worship you because all authority in heaven and on earth is yours. Your resurrection secures your victory and proves your authority. I bow my knee before you and willingly submit to your commands.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 8
Prayer of Consecration
God: as I see the majesty and glory of your creation - the moon, the stars, the mountains, the oceans - I marvel at how small I am. What is man, that you are mindful of him? And yet, this is the wonder of your love - you ARE mindful of me! You have given human beings great dignity, crowning us with glory and honor and giving us dominion over the work of your hands. So today, help me go about my work as one who represents your majesty. As I work, help me see that I am extending your dominion over creation. As I encounter infants and children, let me hear their cries as expressions of praise to you. And as I fight temptation, help me to view sin as treason against your majesty and beauty. Help me live today in the glory and honor that you have bestowed upon me through the Lord Jesus Christ.
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, May 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.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Word of God Incarnate: you came to this world to accomplish salvation. By your grace, you call me to repent, to be crucified with you, and to be raised as a new creation. But I confess that often I do not live as a renewed person! I “go with the flow” instead of stemming the tide of sin. I allow the fruit of the Spirit to be choked out by the weeds of evil. Forgive me, for Jesus’ sake, and help me show evidence every day of your kingdom’s reign in my heart.
Old Testament Reading: Ezekiel 36:22-32
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:1-13
Prayer of Adoration:
Heavenly Father, I rejoice that in your Spirit I have been baptized into one body. Across centuries and cultures, there is one Lord and one Spirit. Thank you Father, for the mystery of the church’s diversity, grounded in your eternal and unchanging unity. Amen.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 139:13-24
Prayer of Consecration
Father, I thank you that your word reminds me of my great dignity as your image-bearer. All day long, the world tells me that I fall short in one way or another. This psalm reflects your deep love for me as it firmly refutes those messages. It reminds me that I am intimately known and intentionally formed by you. You reassure me that I am wonderfully made. The days that may feel empty or pointless have in fact been seen and counted by you before the earth was made. Remind me today that this is true not just of me, but of every human being on earth. So let me treat others today with the dignity and honor they deserve. Let me preserve and protect human life and flourishing in every way possible. Search me, Lord, discern my deepest thoughts and motivations, gently show me my futile ways, and 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.
Friday, May 24, 2024
Opening Prayer:
There is none like you among the gods, O Lord, nor are there any works like yours. For you are great and do wondrous things; you alone are God. Teach me your way, O LORD, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Almighty God, by whom all things were created and for whom all things exist, I bow before you in humility. Truly I have more than sufficient reasons to overflow with gratitude and thanksgiving. Yet how easily I default to complaining, whining, and grumbling. I acknowledge and grieve the entitlement and selfishness in my soul. Have mercy on me, O Lord. Free me for joyful gratitude and humble thanksgiving, through Jesus Christ my Savior: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Joel 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: Romans 8:18-27
Prayer of Adoration:
Merciful God, with all creation I long to be set free from the bondage of corruption. I adore you today because I am not alone in my waiting; the Spirit helps me, interceding for me with groaning too deep for words.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 139:1-12
Prayer of Consecration
Dear Father, at the outset of this day I invite you to search me and know me. Examine my thoughts. Know my words. Search out my path. You’re already intimately acquainted with everything that will happen today. When I am tempted to pursue satisfaction in things other than You, do not let me wander. Hem me in, behind and before, and let your right hand hold me fast. I may take the wings of the morning, or I might struggle in darkness, and either way you are there. Today my work may call me to travel great distances or to remain in one place, and either way, you are there. Lead me in the way everlasting. In Jesus name, 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, May 23, 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
Almighty God: to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid. Cleanse the thoughts of my heart by the working of your Holy Spirit, that I may perfectly love you, joyfully obey you, and worthily magnify your holy name, through Christ, our Lord: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Jeremiah 31:31-34
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Acts 2:1-21
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord God, like your servant Peter, I rejoice in the inauguration of your long-awaited kingdom. In your church you have united a scattered people, filling them with the new wine of your Holy Spirit. Like your disciples, Lord, renew my awe in your salvation that I may tell in my own tongue the mighty works of God!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 104:24-35
Prayer of Consecration
This psalm reminds me of your wisdom and power, O Lord. I will sing to you while I have my being. May my meditation be sweet and pleasing in your sight. My imagination is filled with images of the sea: the ships going back and forth, and creatures teeming in the water. In ancient times the ocean was a symbol of chaos and darkness, but this psalm shows it as a joyful expression of your creativity. Holy Spirit, you not only fill the people of God and guide us into truth; you also sustain the entire created order. You bring life and renewal; you open your hand and fill your creatures with good things. As I go about my day, fill me with good things and help me to rejoice in you more and more.
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, May 22, 2024
Opening Prayer:
To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul. O my God, in you I trust; let me not be put to shame; let not my enemies exult over me. Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Merciful Father, I come before you today not in penitent fear but in repentant faith. Because you have raised me up with Christ, I now humble myself before you. I confess that I have been proud, attempting to live an autonomous life and believing the lie of self-sufficiency. I have avoided Jesus by treasuring other things more than you and your kingdom. Have mercy on me today, O Lord my God, and empower me for greater trust, submission, and obedience, through Christ my Savior: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Numbers 11:24-30
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: John 15:26-16:15
Prayer of Adoration:
Father, in awe and wonder I consider the gift of your Spirit, the Helper, who comforts me and guides me into all truth. Thank you for this most wonderful gift. Amen.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 104:1-23
Prayer of Consecration
It does me good to meditate on your beauty, O Lord. It steadies me when I feel insecure. It clears my head when I feel chaotic and distracted. The psalm reminds me that you are an extraordinary being: clothed with splendor, dressed in light. The clouds and the wind carry messages of your greatness. The mountains and oceans move at your pleasure, and the earth is satisfied by the fruit of your work. And yet, along with your immensity comes your eye for detail and your loving awareness of very small things. The psalm shows us your sky and mountains, and then reminds us that birds build nests in your trees, and you see your people going home after a long day’s work. I love you for being the God of the big and the little.
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, May 21, 2024
Opening Prayer:
Blessed are you, O Lord; teach me your statutes! I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. Deal bountifully with your servant, that I may live and keep your word. Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Holy Spirit of God: I confess today my neglect of you. I am not yielded to your influence as I ought to be. I walk in the flesh rather than in the Spirit, and as a result I bear the fruit of the flesh rather than the fruit of the Spirit. Gracious Holy Spirit, forgive my sin and overcome my weakness. Subdue my restless heart and overwhelm me with your presence, that I might hear your voice clearly, yield to your control eagerly, and bear your fruit consistently. Through Christ, our Lord: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Ezekiel 37:1-14
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: John 14:8-27
Prayer of Adoration:
Holy Spirit, I adore you for being my Helper - the one who teaches me and brings to remembrance all that Jesus said and did. You give me peace in the midst of trouble; you dwell with me and are in me. What a marvelous mystery!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 67
Prayer of Consecration
God, this Psalm reminds me of the RIGHT way to ask for your blessings. With the psalmist I pray: let your face shine on your people today. Be gracious to us and bless us - SO THAT your way may be known on earth! As you bless your people, let your deep wisdom, abundant provision, and steadfast love be known among the nations. When you come to judge with equity, you will crush oppression and injustice. You will do away with evil uses of power. You will guide the nations and rule in righteousness. Until that day, help me use whatever resources I have to reflect your goodness in my corner of the world. Help me enjoy your blessings to me, and extend those blessings to others.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Monday, May 20, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise. For you will not delight in sacrifice, or I would give it; you will not be pleased with a burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
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 11:1-9
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: John 7:25-39
Prayer of Adoration:
Gracious Father: I have thirsted and found living water, and my heart overflows with the abundance of your grace. I adore you for the gift of the Holy Spirit!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 22
Prayer of Consecration
“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” O God, it’s impossible to read this Psalm without thinking of Jesus on the cross, crying out to you in his great moment of need. Like him, I know that you invite ME to cry out to you. You see my anxieties and understand my concerns. When I reflect on my life, I see that you continually preserve me, provide for me, and work out your healing power in me. But it’s not enough to remember these things in private. This Psalm says you are “enthroned on the praises of Israel.” It’s through publicly praising you that I lift you up and show your greatness to the world. So I’ll praise you in the great congregation, joining with your people to celebrate your faithfulness. From the patriarchs and matriarchs of Scripture to the believers I know personally, there is so much evidence of your grace. Thank you for your faithfulness to your people.
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, May 18, 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: Joel 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: John 21:1-25
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus, as one of your humble disciples, I worship you as my Lord and teacher. I love because you first loved me. I serve because you served me. As I follow you into suffering and death, you are with me, and when I rise with you on the last day, I will dwell with you forever.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 127 & 128
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, unless you build the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless you watch over the city, the watchmen stay awake in vain. This Psalm reminds me of my utter dependence on you for everything. I toil and strive as though it’s all up to me; yet you’re the one who generously gives success and abundance. So let me sleep easy tonight, resting in your divine goodness. This Psalm also reminds me that marriage and family are to be celebrated among your people. So help me seek the flourishing of the families around me, whatever my own circumstance may be. Let me treasure children as a blessing, and let me seek their good always. Forgive me for regarding my own life with fear of scarcity. Forgive me for not expecting your rich blessings upon those who fear you. Open my hands wider to receive your gifts. Expand my capacity for celebrating all the good things you give to your people. 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, May 17, 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: Joel 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: Revelation 22:6-21
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I adore you as the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end. I rejoice in your imminent return, when I will finally see clearly what I now only glimpse by faith. Come quickly, Lord Jesus!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 94
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord, thank you for the good news that you are a God of vengeance. I live in a world full of disorder and injustice, where evildoers boast in their wickedness and take advantage of the widow, the sojourner, and the fatherless. At times it feels as though you are silent, absent, unmoved by the evil in the world. But the truth is that nothing escapes your notice. You see and hear every injustice. You will rise up; you will bring every act to justice and every soul to account. Our great hope, when faced with evildoers, is that “the Lord our God will bring back on them their iniquity and wipe them out for their wickedness.” Let this promise serve as a warning to me; make me quick to repent and resolute to turn from all evil. Thank you that in your vengeance, there is hope of mercy through the Lord Jesus Christ. May I hide myself in Him, and be spared in the day of your recompense. 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, May 16, 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: Joel 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: Revelation 21:1-22:5
Prayer of Adoration:
Father, this portrait of a new heaven and a new earth fills me with joy and hope. I long for the New Jerusalem. One day death and grief and pain will be no more; one day your church will be perfected and adorned as Jesus’ bride. Thank you for the glorious future that awaits your people!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 67
Prayer of Consecration
God: this Psalm unfolds the RIGHT way to ask for blessing. Would you bless us and make your face shine upon us, SO THAT your name will be known on earth, and your saving power among all nations! Forgive me, Father, for the selfish way I sometimes ask for blessings that are really about me and not about you. Would you prosper and strengthen your church; would you give blessing to your people, so that YOU are seen to be beautiful and good. And give me, Father, the same passion the Psalmist has for your name to be praised and feared. Help me long for every one of my neighbors and friends to know and worship Jesus. Bring specific people to mind now, that I might lift them up before you and pray for their 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.
Wednesday, May 15, 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: Isaiah 60
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: Revelation 7:9-17
Prayer of Adoration:
God, I bow in reverence, for my deepest desire is to worship you. I long for the day when your saints, cleansed, vindicated, and triumphant, will stand before your throne and praise you. In anticipation of that day, I cry out: blessing and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and might be to our God forever and ever! Amen.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 53
Prayer of Consecration
O God: this Psalm serves as both a comfort and a warning. It is a comfort because it reminds me that you look down from heaven and see the complexity of each human heart. You know who seeks you, and who hates you. It is a warning because it reminds me of the danger of foolishness. The fool says in his heart, “There is no God” - and his stubbornness leads him into sin and rebellion. In light of this warning, I humbly ask that you would give me the grace to continually seek after you and walk closely with you. Keep me from foolishness. Ground my soul in your steadfast love and strengthen me in the hope of salvation. Thank you that salvation for Israel HAS come out of Zion: his name is Jesus Christ, and in Him God has restored the fortunes of his people. Let Jacob rejoice, and let Israel be glad!
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, May 14, 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: Zechariah 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: Colossians 1:1-21
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I adore you as the exalted, preeminent, ruler of everything. All things were created through you and for you; in you everything holds together. I worship you as the head of the church, the firstborn of all creation, the image of the invisible God.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 47
Prayer of Consecration
God: you are King over all the earth, and I rejoice in you. In you, evil is subdued, sin is defeated, and death itself has died. The true king is on the throne - and because of that, Lord, I know I have nothing to fear! So today, I ask that you would help me to live fully in light of this reality. Allow my emotions, thoughts, attitudes, and actions to align with the truth of your sovereign rule. May I be fully submitted to King Jesus, and may my life be saturated with His peace and joy and happiness. 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, May 13, 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: Zechariah 12:1-13:1
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: Ephesians 2:11-22
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus Christ, I worship you, for you are our peace. You have united the separated and reconciled the alienated. You have welcomed us into your household and made us citizens of your kingdom. Thank you for the deep unity that you bring to your people.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 23
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, you are my shepherd. I am a sheep in your flock, in constant need of your care, direction, and guidance. In the midst of this day, I will trust you to lead me to green pastures and still waters. I will follow you in the paths of righteousness. If I find myself in the valley of the shadow of death today - suffering in body, mind, or circumstance - help me to fear no evil. Remind me that even there, you are with me. If I face enemies today, remind me that you are so powerful and good that you prepare a table for me in their presence. I need not fear, because your goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord 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.
Saturday, May 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
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: Obadiah
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: Revelation 5
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus Christ, I join my voice with the heavenly beings to proclaim your worth. Worthy are you, for by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God. All glory, honor, and dominion belong to you!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 136
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, fill my mind with the rhythm of this psalm today, so that it sinks deeply into my soul. Your steadfast love endures forever. I can’t diminish your love; I can’t escape your love; I can’t cause your love to cease. Because I’m united with Christ, there’s nothing that can ever separate me from your love. Fill my heart with this truth. Saturate my mind with this truth. Ground my being in this truth. Let me internalize it, chew on it, meditate on it, and sing it to myself, so that it’s as native to me as my own heartbeat. Let me be so deeply moved and affected by your steadfast love for me that my heart is filled with love for you in return. Your steadfast love endures forever; therefore I have hope and peace.
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, May 10, 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
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: Zephaniah 3:14-20
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: Revelation 1:1-18
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, who was and is and is to come, I fall down in adoration before you. You are God’s faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. I bow low before your majesty and glory.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 118
Prayer of Consecration
I thank you, Lord, that your steadfast love endures forever. Thank you that you’re on my side, that you answer me and set me free. When I feel pressed by temptation today, let me call on you for help. When I feel weary with my work today, let me proclaim that the Lord is my strength. When I must fight for joy today, let me remember the glad songs of salvation. This is the day that the Lord has made; I will rejoice and be glad in it. Thank you Lord, that you are good and your steadfast love endures forever. All of this glorious abundance is mine because of Jesus, the stone that the builders rejected. In his death, he became the cornerstone, so that I could be a living stone built up in the house of God. Expand my capacity for awe, delight, and celebration, so that I can say from the heart: this is the Lord’s doing, and it’s marvelous!
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, May 9, 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 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: Micah 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 24:36-53
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus: on this Ascension Day, I adore you as the One who not only rose from death, but ascended to heaven, and now sits at the right hand of the Father Almighty. Your ascension is proof of your victory and a prelude of your glory. Thank you that you live to make intercession for me.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 115
Prayer of Consecration
Oh Lord, it does me good to meditate on your glory. The world offers me many idols to worship: possessions, money, safety, power, entertainment, pleasure, and platform. But as this psalm says, those gods can’t do anything for me. They prove useless to meet the deeper needs of my soul. Worshiping them diminishes me and enslaves me. Rather than giving my heart to them, I will trust in the Lord today. The Lord blesses those who fear him, both the small and the great. Help me smash my idols and give glory to you, Lord, for your name’s sake. Amen.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Wednesday, May 8, 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
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: Jonah 1:17-2:10
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: Ephesians 1:15-23
Prayer of Adoration:
Father of glory, I adore you for the immeasurable greatness of your power toward us who believe. Lord Jesus, I worship you as the name above every name - the one who has all rule and authority. Holy Spirit, I honor you as the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, who reveals the glory of Christ and seals those who belong to him. Thank you, holy Trinity, for your overflowing grace and glory.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 98
Prayer of Consecration
As I walk with you, Lord, into this very ordinary day, I look ahead to the glorious day of your kingdom. This psalm is a window into the new heavens and the new earth, when all of creation is restored and all of humanity healed. Your people will celebrate your glory forever, because in your justice, you’ll reveal, judge, and restore. Nothing has been lost that will not be found in you. Nothing has been broken that will not be healed in you. You’ll mend us completely. You’ll renew the earth. You’ll judge with righteousness and equity. So today, let me live in anticipation of your coming kingdom. Fill me with hope, ground me in grace, and let me overflow with love. Help me be fully obedient to you, that my life might display to others the beauty and goodness of your rule and reign.
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, May 7, 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
Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner. For although you have forgiven my sin, I have not forgiven those who sin against me. Inwardly, I harbor bitterness, resentment, and anger. Lift my eyes to your cross, Lord Jesus, that in remembrance of your salvation I would be freed from all resentment. Moreover, purify my thoughts and protect me from biting, sarcastic words. Help me to love and forgive others as you have loved and forgiven me, to the glory of your name. Amen
Old Testament Reading: Proverbs 9
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 1 Peter 5:1-11
Prayer of Adoration:
God of all grace: I worship you because you have called me to your eternal glory in Christ. I long for the day when you will restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish your people. To you be dominion forever and ever!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 74
Prayer of Consecration
God: this Psalm captures the tension of living in the now and the not yet. On the one hand, it seems that your enemies have the upper hand; your people are opposed and oppressed, and your foes scoff at your name. On the other hand, I know that you have fixed the boundaries of the earth; yours is the day, and yours is the night; you are sovereign over all. So as I attend to what’s before me today, help me learn to live in this tension. Give me strength to live in a broken world, standing for what’s right, working for good, fighting against temptation, and pushing back darkness. And give me hope in your coming kingdom, that I might rejoice in your victory and not lose heart. Have regard for your covenant, and remember your people 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.