Philippians 4:8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

The Good News: We think about a lot of things – and many of them produce anxiety and fear and deep concern. So much is unsettled. But God will set all things right – so let that permeate and take hold of our thoughts. Focus on the positives and the truth of God and all that is praiseworthy. God reigns.

Prayer: We come to you in prayer, O God. In a world where too many people look to things that aren’t noble, things that are wrong, things that discourage and debilitate – help us to change those ways. Help us this day to focus rather on the things of faith. Your ways are higher than our ways. Your purposes greater than our purposes. Your love stronger than anything here on earth. Your peace is not temporal, but eternal. So thank you for the amazing grace given through Jesus. Though there are many trials, toils and snares, God is working for our salvation. So we think about such things… lifting up to you lovely and admirable things – like the bounty of a summer’s garden, the selflessness of pets, the cup of cold water, the opportunity for a hot shower, the endorphins of exercise, the harmony of music, a well-told story, the laughter of children… We thank you for friends. For family. For faith. Heal our bodies and help our world. In the name of our Savior Jesus, Amen

Romans 12:12 “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”

The Good News: There are moments of mountaintop exhilaration: sing for joy.

There are times when we walk through the valley of the shadow of death: be patient – we are called to walk, not run in these situations.  There are times when we pause to remember and reflect that all that we experience is held together by God – be faithful and continue to pray.

Prayer: Unchangeable God, have mercy on us. We are living in times of change and uncertainty. Earthquakes shake -- and in a moment, there is devastation. Strains of the coronavirus mutate and, rates of hospitalization rise. Please, no Lord! Save us from these and more. Work in and through your people so that together we (by your grace and help alone) can face the trials and temptations that are so pervasive. Thank you for those who are deputized to be first responders, those who are front line workers in search and rescue efforts, those who work in hospitals, those who ensure that others in trauma situations have shelter, food, water, and medical care. We commend to your care those who do humanitarian work, those who assist in rebuilding, and those who donate money to enable relief efforts. Come, o Prince of Peace, to stabilize our society and to heal our world. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Matthew 5:3–5 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.”

The Good News: The ways of God are not the ways of the world. The world tends to reward those who pander after power and go for the glitz. But God says that what is true, blessed and eternal is not found in self-promotion, but rather self-sacrifice and service.

Prayer: O God of Grace and God of Glory, it is a relief to know that ultimately your ways of justice, mercy, humility, and peace will persevere. Thank you that as today rolls into eternity, we will be infused with joy, freed from pain and problems, abiding in love. No one will be lonely! No one will be last! No one will feel like a loser! There will be no terrorism or tumors, no depression or debt, no car accidents or coronavirus. All these will be past-tense. Ah – come, Lord Jesus. Yet for now however, we still live in a veil of tears; we still walk through the valley of the shadow of death; evil people still wield power. Why? How long? We only have this one earthly life to live – and so humbly, but urgently, we pray that you would right wrongs, heal diseases, and protect us from all that would seek to demean and diminish us. Set us on the pilgrim pathway that leads to celebration, salvation, and joy. Thank you for giving us family and friends as companions on the way. Bless them, and us. For the sake of Jesus – Amen. 

John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

The Good News: One of the biggest understatements: “In this world you will have trouble.” As filled with delight and joy, there are also conundrums and challenges. Sometimes these troubles feel as if they will smother us – but God says, “No! You will not be overcome but instead you will, through Christ Jesus, have victory!” Hang on and hold on. God has the final word.

Prayer: O God of victory – how we are grateful that Jesus came into our world to identify with us, to take away our sin, to save us – and through the cross and empty tomb, to grant us eternal life. We’ve encountered some really challenging situations and endured some really hard days over the course of life. There are times when we felt like we wouldn’t make it – the fear so strong, the pain so intense, the grief so overwhelming. May these times be few! Yet we know that this is a world of sin and brokenness – and that our faith does not barricade us from tragedy. Thus, we ask that you would give us strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow. Heal our bodies, minds and souls. Even as we ask your protection for ourselves and those we love, we pray for those who are in the vocation of protection: those serving in the military; those who are EMTS, fire fighters and police officers; those who work in our hospitals and clinics. We pray for nannies and baby sitters. We pray for lifeguards. We pray for parents. Save us and bless us, we humbly pray. Amen.

Romans 15:5 “May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had.”

The Good News: Jesus loves people. Unconditionally. It takes endurance and divine encouragement, but we are called to love all people… all people.

Prayer: God of all places and all people – we confess that we often fall prey to loving those who love us and to keep a distance from those who are different than us. How impoverished to only want to know a small portion of your people, O God. We are aware of how we categorize and label people. Forgive us when we use our differences to divide. Help us to grow in your grace through our encounters with those of a variety of generations, of races, of socio-economic backgrounds, of sexual orientations, of occupations, of language, of talent, of faith. As we are all your children, help us to extend the love of Jesus, to all those we encounter today. Guide our actions this day that they would glorify you – at work, at the store, on the beach, in the neighborhood, on the road, at home, treating others as we ourselves would want to be treated. For the sake of Jesus, Amen. 

Psalm 143:8 “Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life."

The Good News: As we greet a new day, know, remember and believe that you are cherished by God. As you encounter decisions this day – bring them to God for guidance.

Prayer: Good and gracious God – how we trust you – and want to trust you more. It’s so hard to “let go and let God.” We’re used to being in charge. The world expects us to make good choices, to succeed, to go for the gusto. It's a challenge to remember that we don’t have to have it all figured out, or that everything doesn’t depend on us. But when we do remember, what a relief! We can just rest in your everlasting, ever-living, ever-loving arms. You, O Lord, will still keep the earth spinning. You cause the daytime and night. You have set the ocean tides into motion. So much happens without our input or responsibility. So again, help us to trust you. Even when life is stressful, you cradle us with care. So, take from us the burdens of life and replace them with opportunities to live more fully, laugh more heartily, and love more generously. May this be a Thursday of enjoying you, your world, your people. Thank you, God: creator, redeemer and sustainer! Alleluia and amen.

Isaiah 35:4 "Say to those who are panicking: 'Be strong! Don't fear! Here's your God, coming with vengeance; with divine retribution. God will come to save you.”

The Good News: We so often want to be judge and jury. When someone does us (or those we love) wrong – we want justice. Yet too often we see wrongdoers get off seemingly unpunished. Let us seek to let God be responsible for the actions of others. Our job? Stop panicking and let God take charge.

Prayer: Heavenly Father – help us in our frailty and fear to be strong. We want to find strength for ourselves – but mostly we want to be strong for those we love. There are so many needs – physically, emotionally, mentally, economically, spiritually. So please, O Lord, as those we love encounter the rough roads of life, we pray that you would both calm our souls as well as bring your divine help and healing to them. For those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, may your strength be their strength and restore health. For those facing surgery and rehab, may your blessing be their blessing and reestablish their functioning. For those seeking to break the bonds of addiction, may your freedom be their freedom and reinstate a dependence on You rather than the needle, pill or bottle. For those whose bills pile up and what is owed far outweighs what is brought in, may your hope be their hope and renew a network of opportunity. For those who are depressed, may your light be their light and lift the veil of despair. Help us together to care for one another and to reflect your perfect peace in what we say and do. Renovate our lives by your Spirit’s salvation, support, and serenity. In Jesus’ name, amen. 

1 Corinthians 13:4-5 “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs."

The Good News: It has been sung that “love makes the world go ‘round.” So easy to say, so hard to live out. God’s love is perfect, complete, enduring. Seek to love as Christ-like as you can. And when you can’t – remember that God still loves you and will forgive you.

Prayer: Lord, we want to be more loving. While it’s relatively easy to love those who love us, it’s a challenge to love those who disagree with, disturb or demean us. They deserve our rebuke, not our love. But in these days of partisan politics, in these times of entitlement, in this society of “me first” the living of a different model is even more necessary. So forgive us when we’d rather act according to the values of the world rather than the ethic of your Realm. Instead, place a spirit of “keeping no record of wrongs” in our hearts. As difficult as it is --- and it certainly is – we pray for our enemies. May we not match evil for evil. Rather let us let your patient and kind love flow through us that we may be agents of transformation. You know, O God, those people whom we have harbored ill-will in our secret places – we name them before your throne of grace, handing the resentment over to you. Take it, deal with them as you will, and heal our souls. Lord, we want to be more loving… Amen. 

Matthew 6:27 "Who among you by worrying can add a single moment to your life?"

The Good News: We know with our heads that worry isn’t productive, nor healthy. But our hearts often lead us in a different direction. We worry about so many things. Let us hand them over to God who is the one who can provide calm for our minds and peace for our souls.

Prayer: O God of both sunny days and restless nights – we bring the totality of our emotions to you. We are grateful that you have promised to be with us, to never fail or forsake us. And we believe that – we really do. And yet we are a bundle of emotions that make us unsettled. So, we worry. We try not to, but we do. Aches and pains. World news. The price of, well, everything. The environment. This pandemic. Our safety. What will life be like for our children and grandchildren? We worry about being left alone. We worry that our faith may not be enough to sustain us. We worry that we’re not faithful enough. On and on and on. It is not realistic to think we’ll be worry-free, so perhaps, O God, we come praying that you will get us from Monday until Tuesday without trauma. Watch over and protect those we love. And in a miraculous working of your Holy Spirit – make your kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven. Yes, Lord, make it so. Bring that peace that passes understanding. Amen and amen. 

Hebrews 12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.

The Good News: As the Olympics conclude, we look to a model of many different people gathered for one thrilling purpose. May the peoples of the world likewise be united in faith, with a huge crowd cheering us. Persevere! The road is long, but the crown of victory is yours through Christ.

Prayer: Lord of yesterday, today, and tomorrow – often, as we live day-in-and-day –out, there are some of the same emotions that face a marathon runner. As we face the race that you, O God, have set before us – we ask that you would help, and guide, and sustain us. Be with us when we get nervous, wondering if we can really accomplish all that we might want. Come alongside us when the pace of our living is easy and the path is flat. Help us when the harsh reality sets in that our steps have been many, yet we’re far from finishing. Guide us when we have to make decisions – how hard to push; when to hold back? Also, O God, give us people with whom we can collaborate – running the race is easier with others to cheer us on. For when the doubts rise – and that happens – give the gift of fortitude. And if the pain increases and weariness gets to be too much, give a second wind of your Spirit. We want your crown of victory – so save us from our sin and set us forth to keep our eyes on the prize of your love and salvation. Thank you, O God, for never giving up on us. Thank you for your angels of encouragement. Amen. 

2 Thessalonians 3:16 "May the Lord of peace himself give you peace always in every way. The Lord be with all of you."

The Good News: “Always.” “In every way.” What great phrases. The Lord doesn’t offer occasional support. Or conditional care. For some crises, but not others. God is all-in, loving you, and caring for you, and blessing you. Remember that when the going gets tough.

Prayer: Ever-present, ever-gracious God – how we need you. Every hour we need you. We wonder and pray about the ongoing battle against COVID-19. How long O Lord? It’s been two steps forward and one step back, it seems. We pray for no more “backsteps.” Thank you for the vaccines that have kept many safe; may their efficacy hold. Especially we pray for those with compromised health and those undergoing chemo and radiation. Bring healing and bodily restoration; hear us, O Lord. We pray for those with auto-immune disorders. It’s true that many with fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, celiac disease, and lupus often look “well” on the outside, which can add to the pain when people say, “but you don’t look sick.” Bring help, hope and healing for our emotions as well as our bodies. Additionally, we pray for those with fragile mental health. It is a tough world and the pandemic has, for many, only exacerbated the harsh reality. For those who are in despair, with the darkness of depression ready to swallow them – bring light. O God – bring light. Ease the issues brought on by PTSD. Give a new avenue to health for those with eating disorders. Bring an evenness to those with schizophrenia. So many issues that affect so many people. We need your peace. Come, Lord Jesus, bring peace to our minds, bodies, and souls. Amen. 

Ecclesiastes 4:12 “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken."

The Good News: Friends and companions are invaluable in navigating the challenges as well as celebrating the joys of life. Add the third strand of God into that relationship, and you will be strengthened for life!

Prayer: Friend, Lord and Savior, we pause in prayer, quieting our souls for a moment to reflect and remember. Thinking back over our life, tracing your handprints in the various events – shaping, molding, holding us – we say, “thank you.” Thank you for leading us when perplexed; thank you for supporting us when sad; thank you for providing moments of love. The affirmation of being chosen as a friend is one of life’s sweet blessings. Thank you for friends – past and present… In turn, may we then extend that gift of connection to others. So we lift up those who sat with us at the lunch table, who remembered our birthdays, who simply included us. It’s hard being alone – so as we seek friendship, help us to not be so caught up in ourselves that we overlook those who are seeking someone with whom they can share their good news, or those needing a shoulder to cry on. In particular this day, we pray for those in nursing homes or care facilities – of an age where contemporaries have died and those younger are busy, so they, without physical capability to go and do, sit and stare. Be their companion, O Lord. Sustain us all, for we humbly pray in the name of Jesus. Amen. 

Isaiah 41:10 "Don't fear, because I am with you; don't be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will surely help you; I will hold you with my righteous strong hand."

The Good News: When we were children, crossing the street, we reached for the hand of an adult. With that care, direction, comfort of someone bigger and stronger, all was right with the world. We could meet any danger with confidence. God is extending that hand of care/direction/comfort to you today. Hold on!

Prayer: We come in prayer – perhaps out of habit, perhaps because we feel we should, but certainly because we need help. Lord Jesus -- we bring our prayers for parents, siblings, children. Prayers for our church family. And prayers for ourselves. Our schedules sometimes – even in the summertime – seem busy. Meetings. Preparing another meal. Deadlines. Doctor appointments. And then there is the uncertainty of the delta-coronavirus variant. Please, no! No more sickness and covid death, and no more arguing over protocols. Please, O God, lead us through this; we’ve had enough. And then there are other health concerns – aches and pains, tumors and hypertension – oh my… So we claim your promise that you will take our hands and lead us from today to tomorrow, from fear to hope, from sin to salvation, from death to life. Precious Lord, take our hands and lead us home. Amen. 

Psalm 55:22 "Cast your burden on the Lord — he will support you! God will never let the righteous be shaken!"

The Good News: Burdens weigh us down. They can build over time – becoming heavier each day. Or they can just slam us to our knees in a moment. But no matter how – they consume us. What we ought not do however is bear them alone. Share the burdens – right now – with God. Let God carry you.

Prayer: O God, sometimes we have inexpressible joy. Thank you for those times. We think of someone saying “yes” to a marriage proposal. Or an email saying, “We’d like to offer you the job.” Or the words, “both mother and baby are healthy.” May those times of blessing increase for us – for those we love – and for the world. Yet as children of Adam and Eve, we live in a world that is not paradise. Brokenness leads to burdens, and sin leads to suffering. Help! We cannot manage on our own. Humbly we seek your support. Carry us when we are too weak and worried. And provide your leadership for those who are in the roles of help and healing. As they are conduits of your support, give your grace to nurses, doctors, counselors, social workers, pastors, teachers, therapists. Bless those who are in emergency services – EMTs, police and firefighters. And most significantly, thank you for giving us your Son, our Savior, Jesus. Amen.

Psalm 46:1 “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”

The Good News: When the road is rocky and the night is long, we need shelter from the storm. God is ready to enfold you and protect you and give you refuge. Rest easy in the Lord.

Prayer: O God – open our hearts and minds to receive the offer of your ever-present help. We need safe places of refuge. Too often there are restless nights and anxious days. We worry about so many things. Sometimes we even worry that we worry too much! It’s just that we know how unpredictable life is and we just pray to get from today until tomorrow without any trauma coming to us and those we love. Yet there are the storms of life that just appear seemingly from nowhere. We know that our faith isn’t an insurance policy (we’re not so special as to be exempt from the realities of life/death) – but please, please, oh please… protect us from harm. And if the trouble should come, give us your strength to cope and the resilience to move forward faithfully. In Christ Jesus’ powerful name, amen. 

Lamentations 3:22–23 “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

The Good News: Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow – that is what God brings to you right this moment.

Prayer: Lord of springtime and autumn, of winter’s chill and summer’s bounty, guide, bless and support us – and the world. In some sense the pandemic unified us against the one viral-enemy. Yet in another sense, people grew weary, anxious, angry… So we pray for a season of renewal. Bring a resurgence of kindness. Let your hope shine so brightly that the dark emotions are dispelled. And as we abide in your mercy and faithfulness, we pause to lift up in pray those who labor in this season to help us to rejoice. Just a sampling: park rangers and golf caddies, lifeguards and beach badge checkers, ice cream scoopers and boardwalk vendors, farmers and those who harvest the crops, wait staff and line cooks, camp counselors and nannies, landscapers and pool cleaners, deckhands and lobstermen, valets and hotel housekeepers… O Lord Jesus, may we treat others as we would want to be treated as together we seek to more perfectly reflect your glory, goodness and grace. Amen. 

Isaiah 49:13 “Sing for joy, O heavens, and exult, O earth; break forth, O mountains, into singing! For the Lord has comforted his people and will have compassion on his afflicted.”

The Good News: the Latin root words of compassion is “with suffering” which is what the Lord does. God suffers alongside us, bringing all the comfort that heaven can provide. It is such a blessing that even the mountains could break into song!

Prayer: Gracious God – suffering is never easy. Yet it is made a bit easier when burdens are shared. So thank you that you send your Son to be fully human – to know what it’s like to be weary by the hardness of the world, to weep at the grave of a friend, even to wonder if prayers are being heard. Yet as Jesus was ever-faithful, may we be also. Abiding in the shelter of your arms, O God, help us to know that you are working for our good even when it seems like life is falling apart. That’s a big ask, but you are above all, through all, and in all. So in your quiet power and resounding strength, reveal your presence that all may find comfort in you. We need you. We rest in you. Come, Lord Jesus. Amen. 

Romans 8:35, 37 “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”

The Good News: Victory! God’s love conquers all. Cancer and Covid-19 seek to overwhelm us; problems persist; debt, depression and dementia want to diminish us – but ultimately and eternally, what wins? The Love of Christ! Alleluia.

Prayer: When so much seeks to divide and separate us, O God – you came to unite us in overcoming all things that diminish and demean. Thank you for being with us by your Spirit. Uphold us. Undergird us. Inspire us! Provide a glimpse of your eternal glory that we may be reminded that you are indeed at work. Pull back the curtain just enough so that we can rejoice this day in how you are surely, steadily, (if slowly!) working to make all things right. Thank you for sending your Son Jesus, who went to the cross to defeat evil. Alleluia. Thus we pray for those in our military and police departments that they may be agents in promoting peace. Especially be with those in training programs and boot camp, that they may learn well to represent your ways of truth, life and love. We pray for safekeeping of all people – but especially those on the front line of danger. Hear our prayer! Amen. 

Romans 15:13 “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

The Good News: We cling to hope. Life is so fragile – and so we trust that God’s presence, power and peace will overflow in ways that we can’t fully comprehend.

Prayer: These are yet tough times, O God. As the delta-variant causes more illness, and as there has been the politicization of vaccines, and as so many businesses are struggling to find employees and regain a sure footing, help us! Help us! Guide our leaders as they navigate challenges. May people come together for mutual blessings. We are feeling on the cusp of “normalcy” yet we’re not there. So we pray that you would create an atmosphere of healing and cooperation. And yes, Lord, help us this day to be people who contribute to the up-building of the Kingdom of God. In some small, yet significant way, may our faith grow – and even overflow! We pray for doctors and nurses, for small-business owners and their employees, for all who labor to make this world safer and saner. In the name of Jesus. Amen.

1 Timothy 4: 12-14 Let no one despise your youth, but set the believers an example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. Until I (Paul) arrive, give attention to the public reading of scripture, to exhorting, to teaching. Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you through prophecy with the laying on of hands by the council of elders.

The Good News: As tomorrow Gene Ryan is ordained to Christian ministry, we rejoice for him – and for all who will benefit from his gifts of faith, exhortation and teaching.

Prayer: Gracious God, you provide so many spiritual gifts for the up building of your Realm. Thank you for people who pray, for those who serve quietly, for those who create beauty, for those whose care buoys us up, for those who have the capacity to give generously, for those with teaching gifts, for those who lead us in faith. Sustain and encourage those who seek, day by day, to live, work and serve to your glory, and in your name. Give us both opportunity and ability to reflect the love of Jesus this very day. Thank you too for seminaries who train people to lead in faith. Thank you for missionaries at home and abroad. Guide us by your Spirit in this world of challenge and concern that all may abide in peace and live in love. To your name’s glory: Amen. 

Revelation 22:1-3 Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb through the middle of the street of the city. On either side of the river is the tree of life with its twelve kinds of fruit, producing its fruit each month; and the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. Nothing accursed will be found there any more.

The Good News: From the last book of the Bible we get a glimpse of the Kingdom of God where peace reigns every month of every year and all nations cooperate and all divisions are healed eternally.

Prayer: Almighty Lord of All, thank you for the grace of your presence. Thank you that “as it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be.” The tree of life in Genesis will yet be there when all is said and done. So thank you for life everlasting. And thank you Lord for the healing of the nations. As the Olympics have been postponed and now scheduled – but without spectators, and with so many concerns, we pray for the athletes and officials – for safety, for health, for good competition. We pray for the nations of the world that there would be healing – from the coronavirus, from dissension and dictatorships, from war and enmity. Where there is unhealthy division, please, O Lord, bring cooperation, reconciliation and peace. Peace – in our world, in our country, in our homes. This we pray in the name of Jesus, amen.

John 1:9 “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

The Good News: We don’t always do the right thing. Others, likewise, can (and do) things that are wrong. Owning up to our sin, confessing our shortcomings, is a beginning to a better life for everyone.

Prayer: (from the Book of Common Prayer)

Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against thee in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved thee with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of thy Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in thy will, and walk in thy ways, to the glory of thy Name. Amen. 

Philippians 4:13 I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.

The Good News: We are sometimes weak and weary and often times wondering and asking “why?” Yet we have an advocate in the Holy Spirit who strengthens us and helps us day by day.

Prayer: We can be weary, O Father-God. We can be weary physically, but also emotionally and spiritually. The trauma of our world can make us heavy-hearted and parched. We need strength to watch the news and not be overwhelmed. Social media seems to be filled with people spewing rage and resentment; people feel free to disparage so many others by saying things that they’d never say to a person if they were talking face-to-face. It is hard to find civil discourse anymore. So rescue us as a society. Turn us towards earned respect and abiding kindness and a deep faith in you, O God. May there be a wave of your Holy Spirit that destroys pride and self righteousness. You are our only hope. You are our only strength. Amen. 

Isaiah 43:2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.

The Good News: Tough times occur in every age and each generation has events that threaten to overwhelm. Though the difficulties churn, the Good News is “I will be with you!” God is never far away. We will not be consumed. God provides victory despite the very real circumstances we face.

Prayer: Thank you Sovereign God for the reminder that though there remains the reality of flood and flame, they do not determine ultimate issues. What lasts is your presence, the promise of support, and the blessing of love. And when the voyage of this earthly life is done, there awaits a glad heavenly reunion with all those who have gone before. There are times when our souls ache waiting for good

news, for a sign of hope, for relief from the sadness. So we boldly ask for it. You promise to be with us – so help us, O God. Help us in our need. Bring healing to those undergoing chemotherapy and radiation. Provide opportunities for economic stability and relief from unemployment. Sustain those who work for health and healing, relief and recovery. Hear us and come to our aid. Trusting that you do and that you will, thank you! In Christ’s name. Amen.

Psalm 23:1 The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need.

The Good News: God abides. God leads. God provides green pastures. God comforts with a rod and staff. God is with us, even in the valley of the shadow of death. Goodness and mercy follow us. Thanks be to God!

Prayer: Thank you, O Good Shepherd! For your Word that brings comfort in times of sorrow and grief and for your still waters and green pastures that provide opportunities for refreshment and renewal. Our world seems like a see-saw – so we bring our prayers, prayers of gratitude when we are “up” and prayers of petition when we are “down.” Thank you for summer’s reminders that there is yet growth,

goodness and grace. Thank you for friends who support us and sustain us. Thank you for relationships that nurture and nourish us. Yet in times of desperation – for they happen too – come to us and provide what we need. We need hope. We need healing. We need more smiles and fewer scolds. More tail- wagging and less barking. More peace and a reduction in chaos. We need You. Come, Lord Jesus.

Amen. 

2 Timothy 1:7 For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.

The Good News: Paul writes to his protégé Timothy with a reminder that’s needed whether young or old – that perfect love casts out fear, and that God is love! Fear not!

Prayer: O Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer – we are grateful for this mid-July Saturday! Late light! Stars and a half-moon. A bright dawn. Green grass. Flowers and trees. Sand, sun, surf! The beauty of your world is stunning. Thank you for giving it to us to behold and enjoy. Help us to be good – and better – stewards of your good earth. There is much fear about the future, with climate and hurricanes and tornados and such. Help us to love our world and love our future generations in ways that are pleasing and acceptable to you, O Lord God. Give us mindfulness and grant unto us a spirit of self- control. Bless us to be a blessing! In Jesus’ holy name. Amen. 

Psalm 62:1-2 Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.

The Good News: There are restless nights and unsteady days. Yet in God we find both rest and salvation. The tumult, tumors, traffic, tornadoes, nor our transgressions can prevail. We are saved eternally by our merciful Father through the sacrificial love of Jesus.

Prayer: Precious Jesus – first and foremost, we say “thank you.” Thank you for your life that was obedient and faithful even unto your death. How humbling it is to know that you sacrificed so much for us. That you would provide us eternal life and salvation at such a complete, personal cost is almost beyond comprehension. Yes, thank you. Because of you, we can face tomorrow. Because of you, we can anticipate a time of a glad heavenly reunion with loved ones who have died. Because of you, nothing in this world will dictate our eternity. We experience so much heart-ache and worry – but they are only temporary. What lasts? Love! What is promised? Life! Yes, thanks be to you Lord Jesus. May we, through what we do and say this day, reflect our gratitude. Alleluia and amen! 

Matthew 6:31-32 Don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs.

The Good News: Being human, we are prone to worry. But worrying is like being in a rocking chair – it expends energy, but gets us nowhere. So help us to rest in your provision and providence.

Prayer: O Lord – our blood pressure goes up and our stress-levels increase as we think about all the deep needs of our world. We worry about our health. We worry about the economy. We worry about climate change. We worry about our finances. We pray for our children. Give us a peace of mind, O God. And even as we do so, we thank you that you send people to support and sustain us. We thank you for the vocations of social workers, therapists, coaches. We thank you for wise friends and supportive neighbors and caring colleagues. Send us a reminder – somehow, someway -- of your presence O God, so that we can rest easier this day and sleep well this night. In the name of Jesus. Amen. 

Psalm 118:24 This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

The Good News: Despite all the tragedies and trauma of life, we have the gift of this day. We do not know what today will bring, but we do know who creates, sustains and redeems! God is with us. That is cause for celebration.

Prayer: God of beginnings, of creation, of new opportunities, of fresh starts, we give deep and on-going thanks that you have given us this day. May you grant unto us many reasons for rejoicing! Thank you for anniversaries and birthdays and reunions. Thank you for colleagues and co-workers who bring joy to our world. Thank you for our health care workers, our emergency service providers, our military personnel. Thank you for ice cream! Thank you for the “old rugged cross” upon which your Son, our Lord died so that we would have forgiveness. Thank you God for not judging us by past failures but rather for embracing us with your grace and favor. Thank you for this day – and may we continue to be filled with gratitude as we live and love like Jesus. Amen. 

Psalm 139:17-18 How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. And when I wake up, you are still with me!

The Good News: While we have been asleep, God is awake and at work. We are invited into God’s ongoing presence, love and care. We participate; we pray; we contribute; we care – but it’s not up to us to be Savior. That job is taken! Thanks be to God that we are never alone.

Prayer: Hear us O God, as we pray for those who serve in positions of leadership and trust. We pray for parents and grandparents. We pray for parish ministers, chaplains, and missionaries. We pray for those who are bosses and employers. We pray for governmental authorities. Grant wisdom. Grant

compassion. Grant that these leaders would use their power and influence for the common good and not for personal gain. We are yet again reminded that you are the King of kings and the Lord of lords – and that as we go through this day, you are with us, the ultimate servant-leader. Thank you for humbling yourself to identify with us mortals and for going to the cross for our salvation. To you, and you alone, be our worship: Father, Son and Holy Spirit! Amen. 

Psalm 46:5 Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me.

The Good News: We do things we ought not do. We leave undone things which we ought to do. We sin. But God, in Jesus Christ, provides forgiveness, restoration and renewal. We are not defined by our past mistakes, but rather by God’s grace. Repent and live!

Prayer: Dear God, we admit that asking for forgiveness isn’t always easy. (Forgive us for not asking for forgiveness!?!?) I know that you’ve already forgiven me through Jesus, but it’s just that, as I receive forgiveness, it requires me to likewise forgive others. That’s what’s hard! It’s hard to let go of grudges. Some people have hurt me, and I’d prefer them to get their comeuppance. Yet, I know that’s not what You want. So do a renewal project in me. Grant me fortitude to forgive without tons of conditions. I’d like to live without resentment or anger. So free me from all that. In its place, enable me to enact love, and to make compassion visible. That’s a big ask, but I do so wanting your Kingdom to come on earth as it is in heaven. Help me Jesus. Amen. 

Psalm 5:3 In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.

The Good News: Waiting is hard! Yet God, who asks us to be in relationship and who awaits our prayers, hears us and will answer. Sometimes the answer is “yes” and we are grateful. Sometimes the answer is “no” and we don’t understand. Sometimes the answer is “not yet” and we continue to wait. God is at work.

Prayer: God of grace and God of glory, we bring our prayers of “Wow!” – the beauty of a sunset, the constancy of the ocean waves, the deliciousness of fresh fruit, the laughter of a baby. We also bring our prayers of “Thanks!” – the friends we enjoy, the church that blesses, the opportunities for renewal and refreshment of a summer Saturday. We also bring our prayers of “Help!” – help those who are sick and suffering, help those who are grieving, help those who are both physically distanced and emotionally distanced from family, help those who are marginalized because of their sexuality, help those with addictions, help those who are financially distressed. We lay our requests before you O God, and wait expectantly… Amen. 

1 Samuel 1:27 “I prayed for this child; and Yahweh has given me my petition which I asked of him.”

The Good News: We pray – and yet the timing and results of our prayers reside only with God. We cannot know why some prayers are answered swiftly or the way we want, while others are not. We join Hannah though in this answered prayer with gratitude.

Prayer: Gracious God – thank you for giving us friends, faith, food and families. Thank you for filling our lives with opportunities of joy. Thus we pray for the children of our world. For newborns – grant them a life of happiness, health and faith. For toddlers – grant them a season of happy exploration and growth. For their families – grant hearts of expansive love and homes of peace, forgiveness, encouragement and blessing. As you bless the children of this world, may we live out the vows we make in baptism to support parents, and, by our example, to show what it means to live a joyfully because of the new-life provided in your Son, our Lord, Jesus Christ. May our world be a place of peace for our generation and for all generations yet to come. Amen. 

Genesis 8:22 As long as the earth remains, there will be planting and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night.

The Good News: To everything there is a season. In this season of summer we bask in the knowledge that God’s promise is that we shall endure. There are storms and suffering, heat and hurricanes, but God will not fail nor forsake us. Thanks be to God!

Prayer: O God – you whose love for us never changes, we live in a world of change. A time to be born and a time to die. A time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing. As we emerge from a lengthy time of “refraining from embracing” we humbly ask for you to come closer and enfold us with your comfort. We seek peace, not chaos. We need healing, not and more cases of COVID. We desire harmony, not discord. So help use be promoters of harmony, blending our voices with others in creating beauty and blessing. We are grateful for those who work at creating channels of conversation in a world where dissonance is often prevalent. May we be in a season of listening and not yelling. May we be in a season of respect that says “just because others think differently doesn’t automatically make them wrong.” Come, Holy Spirit to illuminate and guide. May this be a season of faith and faithfulness! Amen.

1 Corinthians 13:13 And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.

The Good News: How wonderful to have a God whose identity is revealed not in power or wrath but in love. And love endures! Love lasts! Love casts out fear! God’s love wins!

Prayer: Blessed Savior, thank you for loving us, saving us, helping us, healing us. Your love is perfect. Yet there are times when earthly love is challenging to maintain. So we come in prayer – grateful for those you have given to us to love, but also asking you to assist us in being patient, kind, not envious,

not irritable, not resentful. Help us to forgive as we ourselves have been forgiven. Give us, we humbly pray, opportunities for sharing laughter, creating positive memories, assisting others who need our love. Enrich with your grace all spouses and companions, parents and children, friends -- that loving and

supporting one another, we may serve those in need and be a sign of your Kingdom. In the name of Jesus. Amen.

Matthew 11:28-30 Come to me, all you who are struggling hard and carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest. Put on my yoke, and learn from me. I’m gentle and humble. And you will find rest for yourselves. My yoke is easy to bear, and my burden is light.

The Good News: The invitation doesn’t have an expiration date. It isn’t just for some, but rather, for all. God asks you to accept rest, love, and salvation.

Prayer: Some days – and some years – we seem to have more energy than others. And we are grateful for those times when we can bound up stairs and enjoy a good-workout. And we are grateful for your presence for those times when we can’t. For those times when we need emotional encouragement – hear us and help us, O God. For those times when we need physical assistance – hear us and help us, O God. For those times when we are mentally exhausted – hear us and help us, O God. For those times when we feel so alone and are spiritually depleted, hear us and help us, O God. So come to us and revive us in our weariness. And when we are revived – may we be agents of your care, support and blessing to those who are in need. Bless us so that we may be a blessing in your Holy Name. Amen. 

Psalm 33:12 Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.

The Good News: On this long-holiday weekend, we are called to pray for our nation. We have many blessings – and with the hard-won gift of freedom, we are able to extend blessings to others. Let us remember who is ultimately in charge!

Prayer: O Lord, our prayer today contains the sentiments penned by Julia Ward Howe in 1861:

Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord; He is trampling out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored; He hath loosed the fateful lightning of His terrible swift sword; His truth is marching on.

I have seen Him in the watchfires of a hundred circling camps they have builded Him an altar In the evening dews and damps; I can read His righteous sentence by the dim and flaring lamps; His day is marching on.

He has sounded forth the trumpet that shall never call retreat; He is sifting out the hearts of men before

His judgement seat; O, be swift, my soul, to answer Him; be jubilant, my feet; Our God is marching on.

In the beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea, with a glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me; as He died to make men holy, let us die to make men free; while God is marching on.

Glory! Glory! Hallelujah! Glory! Glory! Hallelujah! Glory! Glory! Hallelujah! His truth is marching on.

Amen! 

Ephesians 2:6-7 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus.

The Good News: When we wish for riches, we typically think of money – yet there is something more precious than gold and more valuable than a winning lottery ticket – the in comparable riches of God’s grace.

Prayer: Mighty Lord, we confess that too often we seek worldly acclaim and think that “if only I were rich” or “if only I were more outgoing” or “if only I were smarter” or “if only I were --- (and here we fill in the blanks with any number of attributes!). The grass seems greener in other places. Others don’t seem to struggle in quite the same way. And perhaps that’s true. We are all unique in our situations – yet none of us are exempt from problems and challenges. So meet us in our need and help us not be overwhelmed. We sometimes feel like we are in a rip tide of emotions and could be pulled into chaos at a moment’s notice. So help! Help! Help! Grasp us in your grace and guide us by your Holy Spirit, O God. You are the only one who can help us in ultimate ways. So we place ourselves in your hands. Cradle us and comfort us. Help us keep our priorities straight and focused on you. The world is so distracting. Help us to be faith-filled. We want to love you O God – with our hearts, minds, and souls. 

Galatians 5:22-23 The fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

The Good News: In this season of gardening, we enjoy the produce of the earth. We also cultivate the fruit of God’s Spirit. Let us focus on growing in these ways – ever and always to the glory of God!

Prayer: God of the past, present and future – thank you for blessings that come with the summer season. We pray for health and happiness. We pray for more of the fruit of the Spirit. May sin-filled selfishness diminish and a generosity of the soul increase. As crowds gather for a holiday weekend, may your wisdom prevail and may this not be another summer of disease nor more incidents of social unrest and rioting. Please, no, O God! Rather may opportunities for picnics and boating and swimming and fire-working bring occasions of joy. Heal our society and heal our bodies. Our world finds final rest and full freedom in you alone, O Lord. We pray in the name of our Savior, Amen. 

Hebrews 4:16 Let us have confidence, then, and approach God’s throne, where there is grace. There we will receive mercy and find grace to help us just when we need it.

The Good News: Just when we need it! And how we do! Our providing God is sending us mercy and grace right this moment. What a blessed assurance! So be confident! Approach God in humility and prayer – God’s waiting to hear from us!

Prayer: Great and gracious God – how we live in complex times. Our society, our economy, our lives seem so fragile. We live in times of excessive individualism and rampant materialism. So many are out for themselves alone, claiming rights and staking personal claims. What happened to the “common good?” Yet even as we pray that, we are reminded of the kindness of strangers, the benevolence work of so many, and how the goodness of people is not (sadly) what garners news headlines. So help us not to despair, but to remember, realize and recognize the blessings, which are many. And which will prevail! Goodness, not evil. Light, not dark. Life, not death! These are the gifts of our Savior, Jesus! So we pause in gratitude for grace. For mercy. For peace. For hope. For joy. These are what will last. For we see in a mirror dimly, but there will come a time when all will be revealed. And you have promised that love wins! So renovate our souls and remake our society that more and more people will turn to you, O God. Use us that your light and love would shine through us and what we do and say. Make us conduits of blessing, and save this world! We pray for our families, our church, our communities, our country, our world. In the precious name of Jesus, Amen. 

Isaiah 43:1-2 Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.

The Good News: To be claimed and chosen! What better feeling is that of belonging? The powerful truth is proclaimed when God says to you: “you are mine.” You are forever loved.

Prayer: How good O God that restrictions are being lifted – that temperature checks are being phased out, that masks are not required for those who have been vaccinated, that social distancing rules and capacity limits are being eased. It is so good to greet friends, to see smiles, to hug and hold without fear. Although the pandemic has taken its toll emotionally, physically, financially – bring restoration, O Lord. All the problems and pandemics are no match for your power. That you see us through the times of trial and tumult is a reason for deepest praise. We shall, by your help, persevere and claim victory. Life is eternal. Alleluia! Love wins. Alleluia! We are cherished personally and summoned by name. Alleluia. Greet us with your grace and help us this day, this week, this season so that we may exhibit (in word and deed) what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Psalm 32:7-8 You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance. I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.

The Good News: We are protected from ultimate evil – hidden and protected. We are safely kept in God’s care.

Prayer: Help us and sustain us, O God. There are many challenges in the world. We read about climate concerns – and pray for our children and grandchildren. There are hurricanes and wild fires – and so we pray for all those who are in harm’s way. There are accidents and falls -- and we pray for those who are fine one moment and then dealing with difficulty the next. We lift up to you thanks that we have access to good medical care – yet we bring to you, Great Physician, those who need that care; we pray for those in the hospital and facing surgery. We lift up those who are in rehabilitation facilities and nursing homes. We pray for those who need radiation and chemotherapy. Hide us each within the sheltering arms of you grace, healing and help. Bring your hope to bear this day. Bless us that we may be a blessing to others. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Isaiah 52:7 “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, ‘Your God reigns!’ ”

The Good News: Beautiful feet?! Yes – all is worthy, good, and even beautiful that helps convey the Good News of God. Walk on! Share the Good News! God is with you.

Prayer: Dear God – I like the prayers of thanksgiving – living gratefully aware is a wonderful thing. And there are many things for which to give thanks – foremost, the gift of your grace. And for friends, faith, food, family… yes, thanks! Then there are the prayers of “wow!” – how great it is to be surprised by your display of power (thunderstorms!), of beauty (sunsets!), of goodness (a juicy handful of blueberries!). Prayers of “help” take up a majority of my prayer time – just because there are so many needs. Today I also bring one of the most challenging of prayers: “use me.” It’s challenging because I want to put so many conditions on that prayer – yet you are the God who decides how, and it’s up to me to respond faithfully. So even though I can’t see myself as a missionary, I’ll pray it anyway: “Use me O God to bring your Good News to others. Let me be your hope-bearer, your joy-sharer, your peace-promoter in specific ways this very weekend. To you, O God, be the glory, now and always. Amen.

1 John 4:11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.

The Good News: We are given the gift of love. God loves us. We ought to love others. No labels. No conditions. Just be kind. Be thoughtful. Be accepting. Be loving. Love is love is love is love.

Prayer: Creator God, you have created each one of us – and given specific attributes such as height and eye color and sexual identity. Thank you for making each person so special – created in your image, and blending us together into a beautifully diverse community. During this time of “Pride” – we especially lift up those in the LGBTQ community, asking that you O God would work to help us make it safe for all to live with integrity, for barriers to tumble down, and for all to live in peace. We pray for those who ache and cannot find self-acceptance in who they are. We pray for those who have family members who cannot extend acceptance to them because of who they are – build bridges of understanding. We pray for those who cannot “live and let live” and resort to violence and bigotry – change their ways and melt their hearts, O God. And help each one of us remember, know, believe and celebrate that you love us completely, unconditionally, and everlastingly. May we be people of compassion and blessing to all people, for it was for us and for all that you sent your Son to give love and grant eternal life. Amen. 

Isaiah 40:31 "But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

The Good News: To be renewed! To not grow weary! To have the gift of perseverance. To be given strength. These are more are promised to us. It may not always be evident. It may not happen today. But the long-game of God is not in degeneration nor destruction, but transformation and renewal… and life!

Prayer: There are those marathon times of life. Having an eight month-old and needing to change yet another diaper. Being an eight year-old and thinking the school-year would never end. Being eight months into a pandemic (remember last November?) and wondering if we’d emotionally survive an entire winter of quarantine. Working at a job you feel stuck in – but realizing that you are way too early to retire? Being at the beginning of a regimen of radiation treatments? Yes, O God, there are those times when time just seems to move so slowly. And they are wearying. It’s true that tough times don’t last, but sometimes they seem to persist. So for our prayer today, we lift up those who are dealing with persistent challenges. Give renewal and strength to those who can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel. We lift up the family members of the alcoholic that can’t get a grip on sobriety (even as we pray for those who are addicted.) We pray for those who are living alone – not by their choice – and feel lonely. We pray for those who have special needs and don’t have the capacity to live alone even if they would want to. For all those who have marathon situations, please bring healing and help and hope. Come Jesus to be our companion and renew our strength. Amen.

John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”

The Good News: Jesus doesn’t want us to have troubled hearts – yet so often we do. A blessed antidote to our worry is the peace that passes understanding. It’s a peace that God is providing for you this very day.

Prayer: In the mixture of fun and sun, we also are too well aware, O God, of the challenges of life. We don’t know why it is, but there are times when we don’t get the job that we thought was just perfect for us. We don’t get the good grade although we really did study hard. We don’t get results from the biopsy that we had prayed and prayed and prayed for. Why do some prayers go unanswered? Why do some prayers get a “no” even though many faith-filled people were praying diligently? We hear the words that “your ways are not our ways” – but (and really no offense) sometimes that just doesn’t cut it. We know you are all-powerful and we are not. We are grateful that you have salvation and peace and joy waiting for us. But for right now, hear the cries of our troubled hearts. Life is hard. We are weary. Bring help and hope. Bring solace and support. Bring patience and peace. Please, O Lord… Amen. 

Psalm 121:1-2 "I lift up my eyes to the hills, from whence cometh my help? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth."

The Good News: The summer months are often times of traveling. Sometimes Psalm 121 has been called the “travelers’ Psalm” as it talks about ‘going in and out and around about!’ Wherever you go, God is with you. Rest easy.

Prayer: God of grace and glory – some schools are out for the summer; high schoolers have finals today. That means that vacations are ready to kick into high gear! And this year we can travel more easily, congregate with friends more safely, and enjoy the beach and boardwalk more regularly. As people travel, please O Lord, grant your protection and mercy. We pray for no more variants or surges of COVID. We pray for lifeguards and park rangers, for golfers and surfers and hikers and those who like to fish – and yes, for those who just want to relax in the sun! Thank you for growing gardens. Thank you for music and outdoor concerts. Thank you for “late light” and sunset at 8:30 pm! Thank you Jesus for watching over us in the summer of 2021 for we entrust all we have and wherever we go to you. Amen and amen! 

Exodus 3:7, 9 “ Then the Lord said, “I have observed the misery of my people who are in Egypt; I have heard their cry on account of their taskmasters. Indeed, I know their sufferings. The cry of the Israelites has now come to me; I have also seen how the Egyptians oppress them.”

1 Corinthians 15:57 “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

The Good News: Though slavery has been a sad fact of our country – and indeed the world -- God sets us free. Though racism yet exists, there is progress of understanding, love and opportunity. On this Juneteenth, we celebrate that, through God alone, there will come a time when we are judged by the content of our character and not by the color of our skin.

Prayer: (from a poem by James Weldon Johnson)

Lift every voice and sing ‘til earth and heaven ring,

Ring with the harmonies of Liberty;

Let our rejoicing rise high as the listening skies,

Let it resound loud as the rolling sea.

Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us,

Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us,

Facing the rising sun of our new day begun let us march on till victory is won.

God of our weary years, God of our silent tears,

Thou who has brought us thus far on the way;

Thou who has by Thy might led us into the light,

Keep us forever in the path, we pray.

Lest our feet stray from the places, our God, where we met Thee,

Lest, our hearts drunk with the wine of the world, we forget Thee;

Shadowed beneath Thy hand, may we forever stand true to our God,

true to our native land. Amen. 

Hebrews 10:24-25 "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching."

The Good News: Spur one another on! We are to be encouragers. It’s not optional to cheer lead someone else towards deeper faith, a more vibrant journey with Jesus, greater good works. Help one another achieve their goals – especially spiritual goals. Victory is found in and through Jesus!

Prayer: You, O God of love and provision, did not create us to be solitary. You have placed us in communities and groups of connection. Thank you for families. Thank you for our church family. Thank you for friendships. Thank you for colleagues, co-workers, neighbors. We pause in prayer to lift up the specific names of those who have impacted us in positive and encouraging ways… Thank you also for coaches and teachers and scout-leaders and academic advisors and choir directors and teammates. Thank you for aunt and uncles and grandparents who made a point of cheerleading us forward. Thank you for your Holy Spirit who is pure-encouragement. And so now – use us to embody that kind of encouragement for others. As we worship – whether in person or on-line, let us praise you together. Let us serve you together. Let us be a blessing, in some way, to all whom we encounter this day. Thank you for giving us this Friday to enjoy, to pray, and to reflect your love. In the name of Jesus. Amen. 

Psalm 4:8 “In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.”

The Good News: The darkness can be distressing – but rest easy – God is with you when you lie down and God is awake while you sleep.

Prayer: Gracious and All-good God, soothe our worried minds we pray. Sometimes we just toss and turn, wondering about the state of the world, the state of our lives, how we’ll manage, how we’ll cope. The stresses are real – but so is your abiding presence. Thanks be to you that you are so powerful that you more than meet all that makes us anxious. But even still, peace eludes us. Please don’t take that as a sign of faithlessness – for we believe in you and in your saving grace. It’s just that we live in a world where your peace isn’t yet perfected. We know that time will come… alleluia! But until then, cast your protecting net of provision over us. Keep us free from danger. May all those who are on the road be kept safe. May those who feel the pressure of financial scarcity find what they need to calm their souls. Restore health to those who are ill – physically and mentally. As we lift these prayers to you, we do so ever-grateful for the love of Jesus. Amen. 

Psalm 119:114-115 “You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in your word. Depart from me, you evildoers, that I may keep the commandments of my God.”

The Good News: When the going gets tough and we just need to escape the evil and hide from the horror – God provide a safety net. We focus on honoring God and loving our neighbor – and the evildoers will not prevail!

Prayer: What a different school year, O God! We come therefore with our prayers. For administrators and school boards as many opinions were offered and governmental directives given – continue to give wisdom! For teachers and school staff as they worked tirelessly to adapt and provide a variety of ways to cheerlead “their” children in completing a year of learning and growing in knowledge. We offer our thanks for their following their vocational call and for their creative care. For parents, as they stepped in to assist in online learning along with the myriad of the other responsibilities of life – we pray your blessing. And we pause to pray for our children. The next generations will have much with which to contend. So help them to grapple with big issues of society, technological innovation, and, O God, provide them with opportunities to grow in grace, foster friendships and pursue peace for themselves and for our world. With so much seeming to fray, be with our children and teens in powerful and profound ways. And be with us adults, prodding us in faith and faithfulness, so that the legacy we leave to those younger will be a cleaner environment, a more united country, an end to racism, a respect for all people and an abiding allegiance to you, O God. Amen. 

Zephaniah 3:17 “The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing."

The Good News: God is with us. God rejoices with/for us in a wide-array of ways. Quiet love and loud singing. Morning, noon and night. Yesterday, today, forever. Laughter and tears. Labor and leisure. Evil will not prevail – it is the very present God who saves!

Prayer: O Lord, our Lord – what a year. Last June was a time to realize that the pandemic might not be just a couple-of-month-thing. So we learned to adapt. And, surprise of surprises, we did some pretty creative things – online worship, zoom happy hours, choir collaborations, drive-by parties, virtual vacations, learning new skills. But now as we are returning to “normal” – even as we give profound and deep thanks, may we not neglect times to worship together, read the Bible together, pray together – and sing together!!!!! Thank you for opportunities for big discussions about good and evil, about ethics, about purposefulness, about privilege, about responsibility. And most especially, thank you for the grace of your presence. Jesus – you are our rock, and upon you we anchor ourselves, our families, our church, our society, our world. So in our ever-changing world, thank you for your saving love which never changes. Strengthen us, we pray. In Christ, our living Lord and Savior’s name, Amen. 

Psalm 20:5 We will be glad in your salvation, and in the name of our God we will put up our flags: may the Lord give you all your requests.

The Good News: Although obviously, the American flag was not in use during biblical times – other flags were. A variety of banners were used to identify, to motivate, to inspire people. Let us remember that the greatest banner, which is over all people everywhere – is that of God’s love.

Prayer: On this flag day, O great and glorious God, we do pause in gratitude for our country. For freedoms enjoyed and opportunities that are uniquely provided in our democracy. May You, bless America. May we use our place and position in the world to set the pace in terms of dignity, human rights, and an advocacy for peace. We lift up prayers for our President, our legislative leaders, those serving in the judiciary. Give wisdom, compassion, and civility in their service. We pray for those who serve as ambassadors and diplomats around the globe; promote peace. We pray for journalists and a free press that they may report accurately, keep us informed, and provide accountability. We pray for our military – keep them safe and focused. We pray for those who are leaders of commerce and industry that they could provide meaningful work and opportunities for all to thrive at their jobs. We pray for explorers and innovators – our country has always been at the forefront of research, of the space program, of invention – thank you, O God. So bless us so that we might be a blessing to others. For we pray for all your children, loving and living Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen. 

Isaiah 46:4 Even to your old age I will be the same, and even to your graying years I will bear you! I have done it, and I will carry you; and I will bear you and I will deliver you.

The Good News: Each age and stage of life is one that provides opportunity for service, prayer and praise. God does not tire of us nor abandon us as we grow old.

Prayer: Precious Lord – thank you for leading us through a time of isolation and worry. We are grateful that the COVID-19 numbers have so decreased. Please continue to keep everyone safe and healthy. For the youngest members of our church, our families, our society – we ask that they thrive, returning to unrestrained exploration, adventure and summer’s activities. For those completing a most challenging school year – we ask, O Lord, that they not feel ongoing ill-effects from what has happened, but rather, use this to fortify them and remind them to never take for granted the opportunities to gather, learn and share. For those who are returning to in-person work, give fortitude and a fresh perspective of how to work creatively and with new possibilities. For those who are in their “graying years” – please, O Lord, strengthen them – body and soul and mind. There are many concerns – from arthritis to Alzheimer’s, from lack of purpose to lack of energy to lack of money. None of us knows the future – but humbly, O Lord, protect, bless and encourage us as we age. In each and every stage of life, may we find both reasons and occasions to praise you and serve others. In Christ’s name. Amen. 

Isaiah 38:16-17 “The Lord Most High is the one who gives life to every heart, who gives life to the spirit! Look, he indeed exchanged my bitterness for wholeness. You yourself have spared my whole being from the pit of destruction, because you have cast all my sins behind your back.”

The Good News: One of the best exchanges ever --- no longer bitter, but whole! Where once we could have been eaten up by feeling that we got the raw end of the deal, God comes to say, though there are times when it might seem like others are “winning” at our expense, the reality – God’s reality – is that we will be the ones who end up blessed and complete, with sins forgiven and salvation from the pit of destruction.

Prayer: Help me, O God, to stop comparing my situation to that of others. It just leads to discontentment. The ways of this world seem to applaud people who cheat, lie and live self-centeredly. I don’t want that. I want to live an honorable and ethical and respectable life. But I still can’t shake the feeling that others are taking advantage of my goodness. So help me to leave those others to you. I’ll trust you, Mighty Judge, to give them their comeuppance. As for me, guide me in your ways and let me follow your path. I want harmony. I want wholeness. I want peace. I want these (and more) not just for me, but for the world. I pray for the healing of the nations and for the time when enemies become allies. I pray for a scarcity-mentality to become an abundance-mentality. I pray for a time when love is the sole motivator for peoples’ actions. To this end, I pray for those who set the pace and provide examples of selfless action: missionaries; public defenders; first responders; those in the military; parents… Help me, O Lord, to live for Jesus in all that I do. And grant unto me the gift of contentment for all the blessings you have bestowed upon me. I pray with gratitude in the name of, and by the example of my Savior Jesus. Amen. 

Job 38: 31-33 “Can you bind the chains of the Pleiades? Can you loosen Orion’s belt? Can you bring forth the constellations in their seasons or lead out Leo with its cubs? Do you know the laws of the heavens? Can you set up God’s dominion over the earth?”

The Good News: God reminds us that though we are given gifts of creativity and intelligence, we cannot even begin to fathom the awesomeness of God. God has set the sun and moon and stars in their places. Eclipses, and ocean-tides, and the perfect blend of elements, light and heat that allow for our very existence have been orchestrated by God. Let us respond with “Wow!”

Prayer: O Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder, consider all the worlds Thy hands have made; I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder, Thy power throughout the universe displayed. When through the woods, and forest glades I wander, and hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees; when I look down, from lofty mountain grandeur and see the brook, and feel the gentle breeze -- Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee, how great Thou art, how great Thou art. Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee, how great Thou art, how great Thou art! Alleluia. Amen! (From “How Great Thou Art” written in 1885 by Carl Boberg)

Psalms 147:3 "God heals the brokenhearted and bandages their wounds.”

The Good News: Wounded-ness takes many forms, and can be manifested emotionally and spiritually as well as physically. Everyone deals with wounds – past problems, bullies, broken promises, gossip, being left out, unsaid words of affection. Jesus is a healer, taking our hurt places and providing comfort. The Holy Spirit will restore you and make you whole.

Prayer: God of provision – life is marvelously complex. There are some moments that are pure joy, and others when we wonder if we can even keep going for one more hour. May today provide the opportunity of making the way a bit brighter for others. Use us to bring hope and help. We pray for those with physical illnesses – bring healing. We pray for those with mental illnesses – bring healing. We lift up those who are emotionally broken and spiritually bruised – bring healing. For those who fret and worry, calm their souls. And so, as we pray for those needing healing, we pray for those who provide it. We give thanks for therapists and counselors – give insight and wisdom. We give thanks for doctors and nurses – give expertise and understanding. Provide, O Jesus, each and all of us with endurance to be effective, and faith in order to be empathetic. And when we are at our lowest points, too tired even to pray – hear our sighs and renew us, guide us, bless us. We humbly ask all this in the name of our Savior and Friend, Jesus. Amen. 

Proverbs 27:9 “Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice.”

The Good News: Today is national “best friend day.” Who makes such things up? But it is certainly a worthy thing. Friends deserve not just a one-day-shout-out, but our ongoing gratitude. Thank you God for the joy of friendship!

Prayer: Ah – Jesus, we are grateful that you modeled caring relationships so often – with the disciples, with Mary, Martha and Lazarus, with Zacchaeus. You enjoyed the wedding in Cana. Thus, for feasting and fellowship – for laughter and love – we are grateful. We thank you for people who just “get us.” For those with whom there are secrets shared, for shoulders to cry on, for those who just show up, no questions asked – thank you! No one likes feeling alone or of being left out – so give everyone at least one other person that cares deeply. Yes, Lord -- grant us friends who will tell us the truth, even when it’s hard. Grant us friends who will forgive us, even when we are wrong. Grant us friends who will laugh with us when we are happy and cry with us when life is falling apart. May we likewise be that kind of friend for someone else. May we embody hospitality through what we do and what we say, looking to Jesus, our guide and friend. Amen.

2 Timothy 4:18 The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed, and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom; to Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.

The Good News: Our world has been through evil regimes and costly wars. We’ve experienced trauma and terrorism, and this past year – a pandemic. God is in the restoration business. We are rescued. We are going to be okay – because of the love and leadership of the Lord!

Prayer: Mighty God – we try not to think about evil so much – because it’s scary and real and powerful. It’s so much nicer to think about beauty and art and peace. And we are grateful for those – but we can’t just stick our heads in the sand and pretend that all is puppies and butterflies. So, please – hear our plea – not only save us from the ways of the Wicked One, but grant us courage to combat the evils we deplore. So many were so brave when the time demanded it; we give thanks for those who serve in our military, as first responders, as heroes. May we too, when and if the occasion should merit it, that we would step out in faith to save others. In this world there is so much bigotry, prejudice and mean-spiritedness. Rescue us from those and embolden us to be people of principle, faith and fortitude. Lead on King Jesus toward your Realm of peace. Amen! 

1 Corinthians 13:4-8 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.

The Good News: God’s love is perfect. God gives us a glimpse of what love should look like. Continue to strive to be more loving. Day by day, reflect God’s love! Be an example of what true love received, and true love given, looks like.

Prayer: All praise and glory to you O God – Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer. There is something so joyous about the first Saturday in June! The warmer weather, the foreshadowing of vacation, the deliciousness of fresh strawberries, the beauty of a beach walk, the blessings of a slowly reopening society. Celebrations of love abound – weddings, reunions, baptisms, proms, birthdays, graduations. For those people who fill our lives with joy we are so grateful. Thank you God for hearts filled with love. So help us God to be people who reflect your love, and help to capture kindness for one another. Life is hard enough – so may your mercy, patience, forbearance, generosity, and gladness be so infused into our lives that they may then overflow to others. You gave us the marvelous example of Jesus – thank you for his life, his ministry, his sacrifice and – through him alone – our salvation. Alleluia! Amen. 

Hebrews 4:16 Let us have confidence, then, and approach God’s throne, where there is grace. There we will receive mercy and find grace to help us just when we need it.

The Good News: The sweet sound of amazing grace is meant for you. God’s presence, God’s love, God’s forgiveness is a gift offered simply because you are loved. When you need help – pray to your heavenly Father who loves you unreservedly!

Prayer: God of Creation – you who spoke and the universe in all its splendid “wow” came into being – what a profound gift indeed that you also know the needs of each person. In all our unique situations, you attend to each of us as if we were the only person on earth. Thank you! Thank you for sending your Son to save us, for going to the cross, for forgiving our sins and mending our brokenness. Thank you that you do not make us prove worthiness or match a standard of competency in order to gain your favor. That would make life so uncertain and really kind of horrible – never knowing if we had done enough to gain your love. So thank you for the grace of your presence. For accepting us. And for healing us and our world! It is so good to be socializing again. Help us not to take for granted the opportunities to participate in a life of community. Bless us to be a blessing to others. In Christ’s name, Amen. 

Nahum 1:7 The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him.

The Good News: We can’t avoid nor escape trouble – but we can find places – and people – of care, compassion, and safekeeping. Lean on the Lord when times get tough! God wants to help.

Prayer: Gracious and good God – we come to you with our deep desires, our abiding hopes, our ongoing-needs, our secret sins, and our nagging worries. We bring them all – and ask you to take them and make today a good day. We are grateful that you provide opportunities for wonder, beauty and love. May they abound! And we acknowledge that though you do not afflict those who call on your name, that there are the times of trouble. So we pray for those who encounter tough times today – bad news about health, a car accident, a rough situation at work, conflict with neighbors or friends. Support those who are lost or lonely. Provide opportunities to those who are struggling financially. O Lord – minimize the times of trouble and maximize the times of joy – for us, for those we love, for all people. In the name of Jesus, amen.

Matthew 11:28 Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

The Good News: Jesus has promised to come alongside us to help shoulder our problems. Just as we are about to collapse from the weight of all the burdens us, God promises rest. We need not carry any of this alone. Picture your problems as a heavy stone – and give it to God. God is so much more able to deal with it than we.

Prayer: It’s true God. We’re weary. Worn out. Weak. Worried. And that’s not just because of COVID-19, as consuming as its been. Help us not to give out or give in. We all have problems – for some it’s about money, others it’s dealing with an addiction, others it’s about broken relationships, other’s mental health, others it’s feeling lonely or without purpose. But whatever it might be named – we need help. And this pandemic has only made what was already a challenge, even worse. Jobs have been lost. AA meetings had to be virtual. Health compromised. Isolation has taken its toll. So speak a word of blessing to us. Bring some Good News today. Lift our spirits and give us reasons to smile. Perhaps that sounds demanding, God. And we don’t mean it to be, but it’s just that life can be hard. So forgive us. And bless us so that we may be a blessing to others. We pray for life guards and park rangers. We pray for farmers and food-service providers. We pray for delivery personnel and mail carriers. We pray for our military. We pray for firefighters, police officers and first aid personnel. We pray for health care professionals. We pray for those with cancer and dementia and for their caregivers. We pray for those waiting to die and those waiting to be born. We pray for teachers and students. We pray for parents and children. We pray for our church. We pray for our world. That’s a whole lotta praying, God! But the needs are great. We are just so grateful that you are even greater. So, thank you. Amen. 

Romans 12:12: Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

The Good News: God is present – not just to help us limp along, but to be victorious! Yes, there are significant problems, both personally and globally, but God sends the Holy Spirit to ensure that we will persevere and prevail!

Prayer: God of hope – you have asked us to be constant in prayer. So we come now to touch base and share with you our reasons for giving thanks, our requests for help, and just to “check in.” Of course we seek not to make our relationship with you seem lightly-considered, but there are times when we just get so caught up in our needs and plans and responsibilities that we forget that you care about all of these aspects of our lives… and even more. So we pause to remember that you are our Heavenly Father and that we can share with you about how angry we get when plans are altered, we can tell you how we ache when we can’t join with friends and family in their moments of need or joy. Yet this re-opening of society is challenging – but it’s happening! Thanks be to you, O God! Return us to the opportunities that have been set aside or postponed. Thank you for first responders, for researchers, for doctors, nurses and medical professionals. Heal our world – physically and spiritually. Bring peace, O God! Amen. 

Nehemiah 9:6: “You alone are the Lord. You have made the heavens, the heaven of heavens with all their host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to all of them and the heavenly host bows down before You.”

The Good News: God has created stars beyond what we can observe with telescopes and cells that are unfathomable without a microscope. Just because we can’t see them, doesn’t negate their existence. God’s ways are so much larger than what we can even consider. The scope of God’s care is broader than what we can comprehend.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, sometimes we get stuck believing that what you have in store for us is only what we feel, or know, or believe. Yet, through Jesus, you’ve given us a life beyond this life and speak in the language of infinity and eternity. Our losses are real – but they are not forever. So thank you Lord for what is forever – love lasts. Relationships endure. So comfort us in times of grief, steady us in times of change, inspire us in times of anguish, come close in times of loneliness. With the governor lifting the mask mandate for those who are vaccinated, rebuild our communities, our economy, our lives. Even still, we know that there are places across the globe that are yet hit hard with the coronavirus; we pray for them. Extend to us all your mercy which is higher than the heavens and heal us in mind, body and spirit. Abide with us, precious Savior. Amen. 

Acts 2:38 “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”

The Good News: Who doesn’t love receiving a gift? It’s not a reward, not a return-on-investment. It’s not earned. It doesn’t come with strings attached. The gift of the Holy Spirit is a gift of love from God to you. Accept it and be strengthened for life here and blessed with life eternally.

Prayer: Spirit of the living God – thank you for this day. It may just be a Thursday on the calendar, a day to get through on our way to Memorial Day weekend – but “wow” – it is so much more. Help us to savor the blessings you bring. The beauty of nature. The weather – hot one day, cool the next; sunny one day, rain the next. So much is delightfully variable. And yet so much is delightfully constant – the twinkling stars, the rotation of the seasons, the wave-after-wave sea-surf. And we praise you for the unchangeable grace of your presence. Thank you for the forgiveness of our sins though Jesus Christ – and how you help, heal and grant us hope. Grant us perseverance and strength to not return to selfish ways and sinful behavior. We pause to recognize and remember that you are always with us – in times good and challenging, for there will come a time when the Spirit’s comfort will be complete and the consolation will conclude – because all will be made right and perfect, and there will be no more tears, tumors or terrorism. No more pain nor pandemic. Come Holy Spirit! Grant us your peace. Amen. 

2 Chronicles 7:14 God says -- "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land."

The Good News: Although we’ve been dealing with a pandemic, with polarization and partisanship, they need not be the end of the story. Healing can – and will – happen if humility becomes a predominant practice. Let’s set the example!

Prayer: O God, it isn’t always easy to practice kindness, to be humble, to be patient with others. So many (too many it seems) are motivated by self-service, greed, personal power. So people lie and cheat, people angle to jump the line, to take advantage. We know that you are in charge – but come on God – can’t you punish those who are so arrogant? Yes, we are glad you are patient and forgiving of us – but truth we told, though we are sinful, we’re not so obviously selfish. So please – confront evil and set the world back on track. Turn people from their wicked ways. And as you do – we seek to walk humbly with you. We confess our shortcomings and ask, by your mercy, to forgive us and then use us to be a blessing unto the world. We pray for the future of our world. We pray for the future generations – may our children and grandchildren inhabit a world where goodness thrives and peace reigns. Come, Lord Jesus! Amen. 

Psalm 107:1 "Give thanks to the Lord for God is good: God’s love endures forever."

The Good News: In a world where so much is disposable, undependable, or fleeting, we are given the most amazing gift – love that lasts, love that is reliable, love that endures. God’s love!

Prayer: Thank you creator God for the beauty of the earth. For flowers that bloom, gardens that are planted, the rain the refreshes and the sun that sustains. Thank you for scoops of ice cream and walks on the boardwalk as we are mesmerized by the constancy of the ocean waves. Thank you for parks and golf courses and baseball diamonds and places of fun, exercise and renewal. Thank you for universities, colleges and seminaries -- and their faculty and administrators – and most especially the students; we congratulate those who are graduating; may they find employment! Thank you for homes of safety and communities of friendship. Thank you for our church! Help us as we re-open and re-gather that we will personally be safe and corporately be faithful. May we be effective in proclaiming, in word and deed, that all people are valued and that the offer of salvation is meant for everyone. Through Jesus, death has been defeated! Eternal life is assured! Love wins! Alleluia. Amen. 

Acts 2:2-4 Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where the disciples were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.

The Good News: The Holy Spirit is sensed more than seen; we receive the effects of the Spirit’s impact and influence in ways that up build, support and bless us, in ways we can’t even imagine. God provides, comforts, and sustains you – today and every day.

Prayer: Ever-present Holy Spirit – breathe your peace into our lives and throughout your world. We pray for our governmental leaders, for officials within our court system, for those in our armed forces, for emergency service personnel. So many are in positions of authority – thus grant to them the support they deserve, the guidance they need, the wisdom to be effective, the compassion to be worthy servants of You. You are the Leader of leaders, the companion of the suffering, the hope of the world. So move among us – when gentle nudges are needed, as a holy breeze -- and when major-league renovations are needed, as a holy gale of grace. Guide your church that it may be faithful in fulfilling its calling – and guide all its leaders that you, as the Light of life and love, would shatter the darkness of evil and reign with truth, power, beauty and awe. Come and save your world Lord Jesus. Amen!

2 Corinthians 5:17 "Old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."

The Good News: We’ve been through sin, selfishness, scarcity, sadness, scandals, screw-ups and scars – yet none of these last forever. God brings new life, new opportunities, new creation, a new song! Through Jesus Christ we have second chances, salvation and eternal life!

Prayer: Dearest Friend and Loving Lord – this is a day of tears for some and joy for others. Loss and love are so intermixed. So for those grieving, may they receive holy comfort from your Spirit. For those celebrating grand occasions, may they seal their joy through you. And for us all – as a society, we are grateful for answered prayers about vaccine availability and the opportunities to gather, to be maskless, to see smiles, to hug and hold. Thank you for researchers and health professionals who have steered us through the pandemic. There is still uncertainty – and there are still questions, yet hope is blooming! Yes! Yes! Yes! Bind our world together in constructive ways; as we have suffered globally, may we heal globally – and not just physically, but spiritually as well. Heal unhappy divisions. Increase faith. Grant us peace. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory. Amen.

1 Peter 4:8 "And above all things have fervent love for one another, for love will cover a multitude of sins."

The Good News: Well – first the not-so-good news – there is a multitude of sins. We have missed the mark and fallen short of God’s ways in any number of ways. There are things we didn’t do which we ought to have done. There are things we did which we ought not to have done. Yet God, in love, has sent Jesus to forgive us. Following that example, our love for others involves forgiveness too. Love wins!

Prayer: Gracious God – we are so grateful for your amazing grace. That you love us, despite our shortcomings. We know all too well both the public mis-steps as well as the secret sins that seek to keep us from your path. So yes, we pray for forgiveness. We repent – we turn from the darkness and towards your light. Help us to do better today than we did yesterday. So it is that we pray for strength – to be kinder, more generous, more patient, more loving. We pray for those who are caught in a cycle of brokenness – may the addicted be granted sobriety that sticks, may abusers confront their actions and turn from violence, may the selfish be brought low – not that we might gloat, but that they might turn from self-gain to service. Help us all to turn to you, O God. Thank you for second (and third and fourth) chances. Help us to forgive others as you have forgiven us. Through Jesus Christ, O Lord and Savior, Amen.

Psalm 46:7 “The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.”

The Good News: God’s angels are with us – watching, protecting, helping, saving. We are constantly and consistently surrounded by God’s provision. We are never alone!

Prayer: Abiding Savior, so much of life is stepping out in faith -- new responsibilities, new relationships, new jobs, next phases of life. And there are no guarantees. We hope and we plan and we pray for things to go well, but the future is still unknown. Yet thanks to you – we never go forth alone. You send us companions for the journey. Thus thank you – we are indeed grateful for those who accompany us when the way gets scary. In addition to the people and pets you give to us – we also have your angel host. A great cloud of witnesses. Ah – hallelujah for those who are no longer walking next to us on earth, but are still very much watching and nudging and cheering us on. Strengthen us that we, knowing that we are not alone, might be bold in our witness of faith. Grant us courage for the living of these days that we would do what is right and pleasing in your sight, O God. As we step forth into the future, may we sense your presence, be grateful for your provision, and do all the new things you have for us to do. In the name of, and for the sake of Jesus. Amen.

John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you. My peace I give you. I give to you not as the world gives. Don’t be troubled or afraid.”

The Good News: Even after Christ’s resurrection and ascension, we are not alone. We have the Holy Spirit; we have one another; we have peace. What a gift! Even when it seems all wrong, it will be all right.

Prayer: Thank you for giving us friends and family to love, O God. Life’s beauty is found in the relationships we establish as we move through the years. We praise you for the moments of connections – finding friends, a first kiss, weddings, births, baptisms, graduations, vacations, reunions. Yet the mountaintop occasions are intermixed with times of loss. Friends move away, relationships don’t always last, those whom we love die. These devastate us. So we pray for those who are going through loss. As hearts ache and ache and ache… as tears flow and flow and flow, may your Spirit bring consolation and may we be channels of your comfort. Help us to grieve honestly, but also to hold onto hope. Death is not the end. Love lasts. Because of Jesus Christ, we have the gift of eternal life. Alleluia! We will be reunited with those we love – and that is forever! All praise to you O God for not leaving us in the valley of the shadow of death – but instead, providing the pathway to peace. Amen and amen!

James 1:19-20 “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.”

The Good News: We have two ears and one mouth; be quick to listen, slow to speak. God is patient with us, so in turn, let us be patient with others.

Prayer: Speak to us, O God. Save us from anger. Respectfully we seek your voice to guide, your Spirit to nudge, your whisper to lead us in ways that will lead to what you desire for our lives. It isn’t easy to know what our purpose is. Why have you created each of us the way you have? What work would you have us accomplish to your glory? So use us that we might be effective in service. Yet we also are concerned about supporting ourselves financially. So we pray for those who draw a paycheck – and those who issue those paychecks! We pray for those who are unemployed; help them to find meaningful work. Call to those who are trying to figure out how their abilities and training intersects with vocational opportunities; we pray for students and teachers. We also pause to pray for those who are retired; sustain them. So yes, help us to listen well – to one another and to you, O gracious God. Amen. 

Psalm 28:7 “The Lord is my strength and my shield. My heart trusts him. I was helped, my heart rejoiced, and I thank him with my song.”

The Good News: Look back on your life. Trace the handprints of God, taking note of how we have been helped – sometimes directly and obviously, sometimes through other people and in ways we didn’t perceive until much later. Give thanks for the presence of God, who never fails nor forsakes us.

Prayer: Dearest Savior, as we think about our lives, we can’t help but pause in gratitude for those who have touched our lives in positive ways. Some – perhaps parents or grandparents or a friend or spouse – have influenced us for decades. Others – maybe a church school teacher, a coach, a mentoring boss, a therapist – directed our paths in a shorter, but no less profound way. And then there are those who came into our lives for but a moment, but changed our lives significantly. For those encounters that you orchestrated – the person with just the right word at just the right time – thank you. So we pray for those who interacted briefly, but profoundly; for nurses and doctors, funeral directors, guest lecturers, strangers who paused to help. Help us be attuned to opportunities to extend compassion to the lonely, directions to the lost, encouragement to those too accustomed to being picked last. What a privilege to live and love like Jesus! Amen.

Matthew 6:25 “Therefore, I say to you, don’t worry about your life, what you’ll eat or what you’ll drink, or about your body, what you’ll wear. Isn’t life more than food and the body more than clothes?”

The Good News: Worrying can become a full-time pursuit. There are things which we can control – and thus we ought to give focus to them. Then there are things over which we have no control, so rather than let them occupy your mind and deplete your emotional energy – turn them over to God in prayer.

Prayer: So here we are God – now 14 months of masking and isolating and worshiping online. How we miss singing “Amazing Grace” with a full congregation. How we miss coffee hours and passing the plates of communion bread and wine. Will it ever be that way again? Sighs, sighs, sighs… And if, for whatever reason, it can’t be the way it was, could you please, O Lord, let something really special and good replace it? Use your power to reshape and reform our world to be full, not of worry, but of blessing. As we are emerging from this time of pandemic (please, O Lord, let that be so!) give to us a new way of relating and sharing and helping that would make our world an even better place. So still the restless souls of those who are inclined to worry; still the active minds of those who make lists of their lists; still the anxiousness of those who find their bodies aching and aging. Give us happy hearts this day, with the joyful opportunity to share your blessings with others. In Jesus’ holy name. Amen. 

Ecclesiastes 7:9 “Keep your temper under control; it is foolish to harbor a grudge.”

The Good News: When we choose not to forgive, more often than not, we are the ones who are imprisoned and angry. The ones who have done us wrong just carry on, not caring for one minute. We need to stop punishing ourselves. Forgive and be free.

Prayer: Lord of all, to thee we raise our prayers of praise and our petitions for ourselves, for others, and for our world. First -- we pray for ourselves… Help us to keep our anger in check. Save us from letting rage get the better of us. So calm our spirits and provide the path that leads to reconciliation, to forgiveness, to peace. How we want peace for our souls. Life is so complicated – so help us to take the steps towards letting go of resentment, jealousy and hurt. That’s a pretty big prayer, we know – yet you are more than able. So help us, God. And we pray for others – especially for those who seem intent on living so selfishly. Soften the hearts of those who live only to get more power or more money. Show a better way to those who don’t care about polluting the environment. So for those who live angry lives – for whatever reason – bring your Spirit’s presence to defuse that anger and redirect that energy to something better. Speaking of that, we pray for our world. Thy Kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven. Make our world to resound with joy, blessing and love. Come, Lord Jesus. Amen. 

Romans 14:19 "So let’s strive for the things that bring peace and the things that build each other up."

The Good News: So much divides and brings down. As Christ followers, we are counter-cultural. We strive for cooperation, compassion and peaceful co-existence. Support, sustain and survive!

Prayer: Praise be to you, O God – as you bridge the chasm between our brokenness and your perfect harmony, help us this day to echo that restoration. So many live in fear – and that fear drives wedges between your children. Although you provide abundance, too many people believe in scarcity – that there won’t be enough – enough food, enough love, enough life to go around. And so people lie and bully and cheat. Please, no, God! Dismantle the chaos and defuse the hardened hearts that demean other people. Give us courage to live caringly, generously, faithfully. So we pray for our mission partners that are peace-providers and hope-harbingers. We pray for food pantries, tutoring programs, ESL schools, medical clinics, sports programs and all organizations that build people up. Hear us and use us, O God. Gratefully we pray in the name of and with the example of Jesus. Amen.

Ephesians 1:18 I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which God has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people…

The Good News: It is important not just to know about Jesus – but to let that relationship take root, and grow, and flourish… to know Jesus.

Prayer: O Loving Lord, what a curious phrase from scripture: “the eyes of your heart.” Help us, in love, to see the beauty of your creation, to notice the needs of others, and observe the blessings that are all around. Motivate us then to care for your creation and to be good stewards of this earth. Motivate us then to respond in specific ways to help feed the hungry and reach out to the lonely. Motivate us then to multiply the blessings so that more and more and more and more people would join in the chorus of faith, praising your Name. Especially we pray for college graduates – this has been a year of challenge – so now, as we rejoice in their accomplishment, we pray that they would have a bright future, with both jobs and joy. Though Christ our Lord, Amen. 

Joshua 1:9 "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."

The Good News: In our homes, at the grocery store, in our hospitals and care centers, God is always with us – day and night. As tough as it gets -- we are not alone.

Prayer: Good and gracious God -- we give you thanks for days of rain and days of sunshine -- and restorative power this balance has to cleanse and nourish your creation. We return thanks for always being near to us – even when we can’t perceive it. We pray thus for those who model that ministry of presence – those who just “show up” when we are feeling down, those who think to text or call just to say “thinking of you,” those who inhabit our memories with the reminder that we’ve experienced love and laughter. And then - when life gets bleak and we have the dark night of the soul – please Lord (O please!) extend a lifeline of care and compassion. Forsake us not. Rescue those who are forlorn. You know the needs and the names, O God. Though we know not how it can or will happen - use us to be the answer to the prayer of others. Bless us to be a blessing. In the name of Jesus, Amen. 

Mark 10:27 "Jesus looked at them and said, 'With humans it is impossible, but not with God. For all things are possible with God.'"

The Good News: We are to walk by faith, with humility, and trust. God is at work. The force of God is strong! So, we seek not what we can see and know from our limited viewpoint, but we seek to see God more clearly, love God more dearly, and follow God more nearly.

Prayer: We are grateful, O God, that we are moving through these months of dislocation, distancing, and discombobulation. Thus, Lord of all hopefulness, we just pause now to pray. We just breathe in and out, slowly, deeply, longingly focusing on remembering that you are our God from whom all blessings flow. You are our God in whom all our needs are met. So, thank you. And even as we stand on your promises, we pray for others:

• For those who are yet affected by COVID-19 – physically, emotionally, economically.
• For those seeking to have children – especially those looking to adopt or need IVF.
• For truckers and those who deliver our mail and packages.
• For those working so that we have food.
• For our church’s consistory and staff.
• For governmental leaders.
• For our neighbors.
• For the children of our world.
• For those without faith and would never pray.
• For those who are ill and suffering – from whatever their suffering is called.

Come, Lord Jesus and bring help. Amen. 

Isaiah 66:13 “As a mother comforts her child, so I will comfort you; in Jerusalem you will be comforted.”

The Good News: the nurture of God is all-encompassing, enduring, and unconditional. Rest in the comfort of God’s embrace.

Prayer: God of life and love, we give you thanks for this new day. We’re grateful, O God, for all the ways your presence is made known to us – both in great and small ways – whereby we are reminded of your steadfast love for us and for all people. We give you thanks for those who have given us life. Though we may call you “Father,” let us not forget how often mothers embody your steadfast and relentless love. We praise you, O God, for your gift of motherly love, both gentle and fierce, both strong and humble, both kind and true. For the ordinary ways and countless days of care our mothers gave us, we give thanks. For the worry we caused them, we ask forgiveness. For our place in this family of God, we rejoice. Amen. 

1 Peter 5:6-7 "Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you."

The Good News: We have anxieties. Yet we don’t have to cling to them. Instead of tossing and turning or losing sleep – take all anxiousness and give them over to God. God invites you to do! Remember that God cares for you – completely and unconditionally.

Prayer: O God – you have got our attention! So much of what we had thought of as “normal” has been changed forever. May we take these months of interruption, humbly, as an opportunity to renovate our souls and restructure our ways so that our ways may, more and more, align with your ways. Help us to be full of grace and agents of love. Help us to practice kindness, and thus to be more human-kind. We pray for the citizens of all the world; may all come to acknowledge your Presence. Thus, we pray for our missionaries: Amy, Linn, John, Jennifer. And we pray for missionaries closer to home, namely all those who are checking on neighbors, making vaccine appointments, delivering meals, shopping for others, supporting small businesses, giving financially to care-agencies, writing letters and making phone calls, praying for the vulnerable. The needs are great, O God. And you are greater! Thank you. Amen. 

1 John 4:20 “Those who say, ‘I love God’ and hate their brothers or sisters are liars. After all, those who don’t love their brothers or sisters whom they have seen can hardly love God whom they have not seen!”

The Good News: God gives us others to love – and God gives others to love us. Not that it is always slam-dunk easy, but we, who have been loved by God, have the marvelous gift of love!

Prayer: Loving Lord -- it’s time. We’ve had enough of waiting and isolating. We’re ready to get back to living out the love that you created us to enjoy. So, as we lift restrictions and gather again, keep us safe. Don’t let a resurgence erupt again. This has been a tough time – and for some really tough. Thus, we pray for those who are working in places to care for the frail elderly, the sick and dying, that they may not be caught in the undertow of emotional exhaustion. As we seem to be rounding the curve into the final stretch of this marathon, provide the resources of love to buoy us all. Let the opportunity to love our family and friends not be neglected, but rather let us regularly, expectantly, and joyfully love our neighbors just as Jesus loves us. Amen!

Romans 8:26 “The Holy Spirit helps us where we are weak. We do not know how to pray or what we should pray for, but the Holy Spirit prays to God for us with sounds that cannot be put into words.”

The Good News: We are well acquainted with those sighs that are too deep to be articulated. So as creation groans, as our bodies groan, as our minds spin and our hearts break – know that God hears our need – and responds. We have an advocate in the Holy Spirit who strengthens us and helps us day by day.

Prayer: We can be weary, O Father-God. We can be weary physically, but also emotionally and spiritually. The trauma of our world can make us heavy-hearted and parched. We need strength to watch the news and not be overwhelmed. Social media seems to be filled with people spewing rage and resentment; people feel free to disparage so many others by saying things that they'd never say to a person if they were talking face-to-face. It is hard to find civil discourse anymore. So rescue us as a society. Turn us towards earned respect and abiding kindness and a deep faith in you, O God. May there be a whirlwind of your Holy Spirit that destroys pride and self-righteousness. You are our only hope. You are our only strength. Amen. 

1 Peter 5:10 “After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, the one who called you into his eternal glory in Christ Jesus, will himself restore, empower, strengthen, and establish you.”

The Good News: We suffer – and sometimes it doesn’t feel like “a little while” – but take heart, better times are yet ahead, maybe here on earth, and certainly in heaven.

Prayer: Restoring God – thank you for this day. Help us to rejoice and be glad in it. And as you strengthen us, may be help others to find hope in and through you. So we follow the example of Jesus. Help us to recognize the worth of people that many would just walk past or walk over. Help us to rejoice in the enthusiasm and innocence of little children. Help us to bring healing to those who are broken through our concern and offers of assistance. (and yes, we give thanks for those in the healing medical arts – therapists and social workers, nurses and doctors, PAs and pharmacists.) Help us to remember to pray often. Help us to boldly proclaim your Name. And as we seek your help, we also acknowledge that you have provided it. You know our needs even before we ask. What amazing love – and in return we say, “Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.” Amen.

2 Corinthians 5:7 “We live by faith and not by sight.”

The Good News: We journey forward not always knowing what the day or week or month or year will bring. Sure, we make plans – that’s important. Yet as we’ve learned with this pandemic, we are not in charge. So we walk into the future by faith, knowing that God cares for us fully and ultimately.

Prayer: Good and gracious God – thank you that more and more vaccines have been available and administered. Bring healing to those who are ill with COVID-19 and protection for those who aren’t. We are more than ready to sing again, to gather freely again, to see smiles… So bring this pandemic to a conclusion. No more variants or new strains! So as we pray for healing for our bodies, we ask that you, O God, would lead us into a future that is full of so many things: grace, goodness, fun, faith, laughter, love… a whole alphabet of blessings. We hope that it isn’t selfish, but we do ask that you would protect us and those we love, to forgive sins, to give days of productivity and nights of good rest. May the future – obviously yet unperceived – give us friends to enjoy and companions to come alongside. So for baptisms, weddings, graduations, reunions, promotions – thank you! Help us to rejoice with those who rejoice. And for those experiencing loss or disappointment, may we be sensitive and supportive. In the example of Christ, Amen. 

Revelation 21:4 “God will wipe away every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more. There will be no mourning, crying, or pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”

The Good News: As it was in the beginning – harmony, peace, life! – will be again. God will bring a conclusion all the problems and pain of the current world. With Jesus’ return, there will be a nothing but joy. Believe and receive eternal life!

Prayer: Precious Lord, tears of grief can grip us as we know all too well the pain of loss. Take our tears and bottle them up – knowing that each one contains stories and memories. So we remember and recount those who have blessed us on our way. And at the deepest level, we say, “thank you.” Yes, the ache is real, but the gratitude for love is stronger. Continue to enrich our lives with people who make us laugh, make us think, make us “feel”, and give us love. May we be quick to extend love in return. Help us not to count the cost, or only love those who love us. Help us this day to take the initiative. Give us a glimpse of heaven – and then let heaven’s light shine through what we do and say. Grant us peace. In the name of the resurrected Lord Jesus, Amen.

Psalm 100: 4-5 “Enter his gates with thanks; enter his courtyards with praise! Thank him! Bless his name! Because the Lord is good, his love lasts forever; his faithfulness lasts generation after generation.”

The Good News: Thanks! Praise! Faithfulness! Life brings a roller coaster of emotions. For those having a mountain-top kind of day, let us rejoice. May we each seek opportunities to discover the blessings from God.

Prayer: Precious Lord, Author of perfect mercy, praise be to you for the gift of this day. Thank you for the companionship of your Son who came to earth so that we could be and would be saved everlastingly. So for being light in our darkness and a guide for our path, thank you. Believing that your way is the way of health, healing and peace, we come with prayers on behalf of others. These are anxious times – so we pray for those who feel up-ended by uncertainty. We pray for those who are adrift from hope – be their anchor! We pray for those who have opted out of prayer. For them we pray – for those who cannot find the words or will not risk coming to you for fear of one more disappointment. Answer us! I guess we’re not supposed to be so demanding, but O Lord – yet just think of the joy that positively answered prayer would provide. So… please. Please. Please. We are bold in our requests because our needs are so great. Peace for our world. Healing for our bodies. Rest for the weary. Contentment for our souls. In the name of Jesus. Amen. 

Deuteronomy 31:6 “Be strong! Be fearless! Don’t be afraid and don’t be scared by your enemies, because the Lord your God is the one who marches with you. He won’t let you down, and he won’t abandon you.”

The Good News: These words from the Old Testament have carried people throughout the centuries. Why? Because they are true! God was – is – and will be – with us. Alleluia!

Prayer: Precious Savior – as the lilacs scent the air, so our praise ascends to heaven. Thank you for not forsaking nor failing us. Sometimes it can be a challenge to deal with all that gets thrown our way – the news, the pandemic, the road rage… The needs are great. The major things are certain and obvious concerns. But, O Lord, sometimes it’s the small stuff that gets to us. Yes, the books say “don’t sweat it” – but really???? Just misplacing the keys, or forgetting a computer password, or the spilled milk can undo us. So, humbly (and selfishly? I hope not) we pray to be spared such things, even though we know that they are really minor inconveniences compared to so much that so many deal with. So we pray for those issues as well – the victims of war, the malnourished, the unjustly accused, those who are bullied, bruised and broken. March with them – and us – O Lord of victory. Bring healing to our world. Right the wrongs, and reign in peace. Come, Lord Jesus. Amen. 

Isaiah 40:31 “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength; they will fly up on wings like eagles; they will run and not be tired; they will walk and not be weary.”

The Good News: It’s easy to be tired and weary. This pandemic has shifted so much. Life isn’t easy in the best of years – but this past year? Few, if any, have been spared the ravages of COVID-19. Emotionally, financially, physically, and even spiritually, we’ve felt the effects. Yet all that we’ve faced is more than met with the gift of hope.

Prayer: As we begin another week – we pray for a special measure of your guidance and grace, O God. We’ve not always felt renewed – so provide a boost of blessing today. For those whose work-week is Monday through Friday, may today be a day not to just moan and say, “Back to the grind,” but rather to be grateful for employment. For our students and teachers, may this be a day of “AHA!” as learning occurs and understanding increases. For those for whom this Monday means we’re in the last week of the month – with money stretched thin, may the generosity of others and the opportunity for employment become reality. May we find in this box-on-the-calendar more than just a day to mark off, but rather moments of wonder, minutes of prayer, occasions for saying “I love you,” and instances of making a positive difference in small but meaningful ways in the lives of others. Help us walk and not be weary! Amen. 

Luke 12:6-7 “Aren’t five sparrows sold for two small coins? Yet not one of them is overlooked by God. Even the hairs on your head are all counted. Don’t be afraid. You are worth more than many sparrows.”

The Good News: So many things happen, both individually and corporately – and God knows about every one of them. God knows about our personal worries as well as global problems. God not only knows – but cares. God is at work and ultimately will bring about perfect peace.

Prayer: Lord of care and compassion, you attend to every detail. We are grateful! So for us, especially those who are list-makers and itemizers, come and remind us that you – not we – are in ultimate control. We can live responsibly, but we aren’t responsible for making sure the earth keeps spinning. So much happens without our making it so; the news is filled with so much we cannot possibly keep track of it all. So please, O God, attend to the various needs – the court trials, the troops in Afghanistan, the vaccination schedule, (and on and on and on). But as You do – don’t forget about us. Our concerns may not be earth-shattering, but they are important to us. Thus we lift up to you and your care: family; finances; food for our tables; friends for the journey; faith that endures. O come to us, abide with us, O Lord we pray. Amen.

Luke 24:1-3 “Very early in the morning on the first day of the week, the women went to the tomb, bringing the fragrant spices they had prepared. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in, they didn’t find the body of the Lord Jesus.”

The Good News: Easter is both the day of resurrection, but also a season of celebration. We abide in the Good News of eternal life each and every day – because we, sadly, know the heart-ache of grief and death every day. We are not left alone with sadness; we are united with God with the promise of everlasting joy.

Prayer: In the three weeks since Good Friday, the challenges have not diminished. People are still contracting COVID, there are still car accidents, there is still the specter of death. Yet we are changed in that we know that, though these all are real and raw, they will not – they cannot – defeat us. You, O God, have provided a path for our salvation. You opened the gate to eternal life. Alleluia. May we not ever lose sight of the promise that you give and the joy that is our legacy. In response, we pray for those who deal regularly with tragedy and loss – emergency room staff, police officers, oncologists, chaplains, and funeral home personnel. Let us comfort one another with the only comfort that lasts – that we are not our own, but belong to our faithful Savior, the risen Lord, Jesus Christ. Amen. 

Genesis 1:9-10 And God said, “Let the water under the sky be gathered to one place, and let dry ground appear.” And it was so. God called the dry ground “land,” and the gathered waters he called “seas.” And God saw that it was good.

The Good News: Creation is a gift from God. We are to cultivate and care for all that has been entrusted to us. Let us enjoy the beauty of the earth: Lord of all to thee we raise, this our hymn of grateful praise.

Prayer: Creator God – on this “Earth Day” we recall the call to be good stewards of our planetary home. You provided a world of abundance and beauty. We rejoice in mountain-topped majesty and the “wow” of standing on the ocean’s shoreline. We are grateful for animal companions. For the intricacy of how you have knitted all things so wondrously into life, we lift up a chorus of praise. How great thou art – for land, sea and sky; for forest, meadow and farmland. And, O God -- scientists have sounded alarms of climate change. May this not become more politicized, but rather a may there be cooperation for all that needs to be done for sustainability, for productivity, for life! May those who are responsible for making decisions that affect us all be granted wisdom. We pray for ourselves and for the generations that follow. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen. 

1 Peter 3:15 In your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.

The Good News: We have hope. Because of Easter we live with the foundational promise of eternal life and everlasting love. So… prepare that “elevator speech” in which, in 30 seconds, you can share why Jesus is Lord of your life.

Prayer: Everlasting and everliving Lord – thank you for loving me as I am – and in spite of what I do. Though I mess up and miss the mark, you have searched me out and sent your Son to forgive me. Yes, forgive the sins of the whole world, but also mine specifically. That’s just amazing. What a lot of love you have. So for supporting me and sustaining me – thank you. And in response to that unconditional love, revealed through Jesus, guide me. This can be a challenging world. So, let me not shrink back from helping those I can and proclaiming your grace in word and deed. Derail my excuses and let me be full-throated in my praise. What joy there is in being forgiven, being accepted, being loved. In Jesus’ name, amen.

1 Peter 4:10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.

The Good News: The word translated as “various” is often translated as “manifold” – but the original Greek had the connotation of “multi-colored.” God’s grace is like a stained-glass window – beautiful in its variety, especially as the Son shines through.

Prayer: Indwelling Spirit, come into our lives with the fruit of kindness, gentleness, joy, peace and patience in such a way that others can discern your grace through our words and deeds. Embolden us to be generous with compliments and lavish with love. So we pause in prayer to say thank you for people who labor to make our lives more blessed: grandparents… grandchildren… teachers… florists… musicians… those who farm and fish… landscapers… sanitation workers… coaches… nurses… chefs and wait staff… park rangers… volunteers… So God of goodness and glory, we are grateful. Thank you that, despite challenges, the possibilities for rejoicing abound. All praise to you, our Risen Savior, Amen. 

James 1:12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.

The Good News: Life is not easy – but in this marathon race, in persevering, we claim the victor’s crown. Keep the faith! Keep on keeping on.

Prayer: O God of yesterday, today and tomorrow – in the course of history these last 13 months are but a blip – yet for us, it has been a life-changer. Day after day, week after week, we’ve not been able to do most of the things that brought stability and joy to our lives. We are more than ready to sing and dance, to travel and explore, to hug and hold. So, O Savior – hear our needs and answer us! We’re grateful for vaccines, but weary of the need for caution. We want all to be physically healthy – but also emotionally and economically healthy. So hasten the day of restoration. To that end, thank you for the team of medical experts who have navigated this pandemic and saved lives. Heal those who yet have COVID-19 and those who are dealing with lingering after effects. Thank you for the skill and selfless service of our health professionals. Bring us through this time of trial with a deeper appreciation of our blessings; let us take nothing for granted. Strengthen our faith. We ask all these in the name of Jesus, amen.

Ephesians 2:10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

The Good News: The Greek word translated “handiwork” is poiema – from which we get the word “poetry.” You are God’s poem – you are filled with meaning; you are carefully crafted; you are beautiful.

Prayer: Pied Beauty by Gerard Manley Hopkins (British Jesuit priest; 1844-1889; public domain)

Glory be to God for dappled things -

For skies of couple-colour as a brinded cow;

For rose-moles all in stipple upon trout that swim:

Fresh-firecoal chestnut-falls; finches' wings;

Landscape plotted and pieced - fold, fallow, and plough;

And àll tràdes, their gear and tackle and trim.

All things counter, original, spare, strange;

Whatever is fickle, freckled (who knows how?)

With swift, slow; sweet, sour; adazzle, dim;

He fathers-forth whose beauty is past change:

Praise him. 

1 Corinthians 13:13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

The Good News: Love makes the world go ‘round. The relationships we receive and cultivate through life provide meaning and blessing. God loves you. Let us love one another.

Prayer: How does it happen, Lord? How does it happen that a child is born and life instantly expands and love arrives where there wasn’t love before. Thank you for not making love a scarce commodity or something that has finite limits. What a paradox that the more love we give away the more that we yet have! Yet of course, you set the example – as your child was born and through the incarnation the entire world was forever changed. Through your love, we receive love. May we follow your lead and offer loving-kindness to family and friends, and also to strangers. As you rule the world with truth and grace, may we reflect the wonders of your love, O God! Amen. 

Psalm 18:2 The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

The Good News: The pandemic is a scourge that seeks to undo us at every turn. Yet there is safety, blessing – and refuge in God. Even when the going gets tough, God is tougher and stronger.

Prayer: Sustaining Spirit – in these days of uncertainty we come with our urgent pleas. We pray for those who are sick and suffering – how our hearts ache for those who are facing diagnoses that require consuming treatment and care. We pray for those with cancer… Alzheimer’s and dementia… COVID-19 and its variants… post-traumatic stress syndrome… diabetes… lupus, m.s., and autoimmune disorders… fibromyalgia… We pray for those who have suffered a stroke… We pray for those who need dialysis… We pray for those awaiting an organ transplant… We pray for those with mental illness… We pray for those who live with conditions that aren’t diagnosed, but which cause a lessened quality of life. Give strength when we are weak, provide hope when we are discouraged, offer blessings when our souls are feeling depleted. And when our time on earth comes to a close, bring the ultimate healing of being made whole in heaven – for we pray in the powerful name of our Risen Savior, Amen.

Psalm 27:4 One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple.

The Good News: When we enter the Kingdom of God and abide in the very presence of the Almighty, we won’t just be observers, but full participants of the glory – gazing upon beauty, brimming with joy, resting in peace.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we approach your throne of grace with gratitude for your filling our world with beauty. But even the trees budding, the grass greening, the flowers blooming are but a preview of coming attractions! When your Realm comes into its fullness, what joy will there be. No more debating and division, no more lonely nights and fretful days, no more pandemic or problems. All made right, everyone included. Thank you! Until the dawning of forever, may we continue to be bearers of goodness and grace, providing for others a glimpse of what is yet to be. Help us as we practice kindness. Heal our world and guide its leaders. Thank you, Lord Jesus, – Amen! 

Romans 8:31-32 “So what are we going to say about these things? If God is for us, who is against us? He didn’t spare his own Son but gave him up for us all. Won’t he also freely give us all things with him?”

The Good News: Questions abound. The answers aren’t always clear. Yet the Good News of Jesus strengthens and sustains us. Bring your questions! – God is always ready to listen and provide.

Prayer: O God of resurrection – we bring our praise for your presence and blessing. So many are in need of help – so along with our gratitude, we pray, “help!” Help those who are laboring so that we may be fed: farmers, truckers, grocery store clerks. Help those who are laboring so that we may be healthy: doctors and dietitians, therapists and trainers, counselors and coaches. Help those who are laboring so that we may be free: governmental leaders, those in our military, first responders. Help those who are laboring so that we may get out and about: car mechanics, gas station attendants, airline personnel. Help those who are laboring so that learning may happen: educators and librarians, parents and grandparents. Help those who are laboring so that we may grow in faith: ministers and musicians, missionaries and church school teachers and choir directors. For these and more, hear our prayer: Amen. 

John 16:33 “I’ve said these things to you so that you will have peace in me. In the world you have distress. But be encouraged! I have conquered the world.”

The Good News: We continue to deal with distress. The 24-hour news cycle continually feeds us information that disturbs and disrupts. That’s the news of this world. The Good News of Jesus is what lasts – and that news is of peace and victory.

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Prayer: One year ago it was Easter Sunday. We were trying to figure out how to worship in new ways. The time of lockdown meant no in-person celebrations. We were learning what/how to steam worship online. New technology! Yet, with the perspective of time, a sliver of something positive from the pandemic is that we were forced to adapt in ways we would never have had to before. Now people from Colorado can zoom in for Bible studies. Our worshiping community is broad and wide. We can be connected in celebration and praise across the miles. People who would never have entered a church building are hearing the Good News because it is available in fresh ways. Thank you God for these opportunities. May more and more people come to embrace the life-bringing faith of your Son, our Lord. Come Holy Spirit to refresh the world with your presence! Amen.

Psalm 31:24 “All you who wait for the Lord, be strong and let your heart take courage.”

The Good News: We wait… and wait… and wait… for many things. We certainly wait for this pandemic to end. As we wait, know, remember and believe that we do not wait alone. God is with us. Courage!

Prayer: O Eternal God, you provide so much for us to enjoy, to use, to thrive. Yet in these days we are reminded how vulnerable we are. Much of what we expected to always go on and on and on has been proved to be so fragile. Yet the grass is re-greening and the flowers blooming. Beauty is yet possible. So attune us to caring for your creation. Help us to be mindful of ways to be better at being good stewards of your earth. Help us to become instruments of a new creation, founded on the covenant of your love. So we pray for Help us to act now for the good of future generations and all your creatures. Amen. 

1 John 4:8-9 “The person who doesn’t love does not know God, because God is love. This is how the love of God is revealed to us: God has sent his only Son into the world so that we can live through him.”

The Good News: The scripture that many learn and memorize first is that “God is love.” It is foundational. It encapsulates so much – love is love is love is love. Who doesn’t want to be loved? God’s love lasts. God loves you.

Prayer: Dear Lord – we lift up prayers for others and for ourselves. We pray for the young children of the world; how will this pandemic affect them long-term? Childhood is such an important time for growth – not just physically but also socially. So we pray for reliance and positivity. May there be no ill long-term effects from isolation and limited play. Wearing masks prevents us from seeing smiles – and how we miss those, so while grateful for all that ensures health, may the countenance of love be evident. So bring healing, restore health, help us to hang on to hope for people of all ages. Smile on us, O Loving Lord. Amen!

Romans 5:4-5 “Endurance produces character, and character produces hope. This hope doesn’t put us to shame, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.”

The Good News: This has been thirteen months of endurance. This is no sprint, but a marathon. So we’ve been schooled in “hope.” May this give us a deeper reliance on the Holy Spirit.

Prayer: O God of Easter-power and resurrection-presence, we sing/pray/believe that “you sent your Son, they called him Jesus; he came to love, heal and forgive. He lived and died to buy my pardon; an empty grave is there to prove my Savior lives. Because he lives I can face tomorrow; because he lives all fear is gone; because I know he hold the future and life is worth the living just because he lives! May your Holy Spirit bring a tangible reminder that we are forever-cherished. May we likewise be channels of hope for others. To you, O God, be all glory! Alleluia. Amen. 

Philippians 4:13 “I can endure all these things through the power of the one who gives me strength.”

The Good News: “Jesus loves me, this I know – for the Bible tells me so. Little ones to him belong – we are weak but he is strong!”

Prayer: You are the only source of salvation and the path of peace. We await the time when we can again sing full-throated doxologies of praise together – but until then, we pray for our friends, our families, our church family, ourselves. We pause to ask you to, in particular, support those who are in 12-step programs or dealing with addiction. Without in-person meetings to provide a safe place to keep sobriety, we pray with them: God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference. Living one day at a time, enjoying one moment at a time; accepting hardship as a pathway to peace; taking, as Jesus did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it; trusting that You will make all things right if I surrender to Your will; so that I may be reasonably happy in this life and supremely happy with You forever in the next. Amen.

John 3:16-17 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.

The Good News: We have missed the mark; we have sinned; we have fallen short of God’s design for how we should live. BUT! – we are not condemned! We are saved! Alleluia!

Prayer: O Sovereign God of Easter-power, we sing/pray/believe that “you sent your Son, they called him Jesus; he came to love, heal and forgive. He lived and died to buy my pardon; an empty grave is there to prove my Savior lives. Because he lives I can face tomorrow; because he lives all fear is gone; because I know he hold the future and life is worth the living just because he lives!” To you, O God, be all glory! Alleluia. Amen.

John 16:22 Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.

The Good News: Jesus lives! Death is defeated! Victory is ours. No one – or nothing – and ever again fully nor finally take away our joy.

Prayer: God of victory and life – Alleluia! Even in these troubled times, we lift up our praise. For though we live with so much uncertainty, what we claim as certain is your power and presence. Thank you for not abandoning us. Bolster us so that we can yet be a blessing. Strengthen our resolve and steady our faith. We lift high the cross, the love of Christ proclaim till all the world adore his sacred name. May this not be just another Monday – but rather the Monday of a new era, when more and more people accept the gift of life and love that you offer – and in return, commit to your holy purposes. Thank you Jesus for your love. Blanket our world with your healing. In Christ’s prevailing presence, Amen!

John 19:28-30 Jesus said, “I am thirsty.” A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus’ lips. When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

The Good News: Jesus didn’t give up and say “it is finished” with a cry of defeat, rather his last earthly words were ones of victory that all that he was sent to do was accomplished. Humbly and obediently, Jesus reconciled us back to God, and in so doing provides us eternal life.

Prayer: O Lamb of God, that takest away the sin of the world, have mercy upon us. O Lamb of God, that takest away the sin of the world, have mercy upon us. O Lamb of God, that takest away the sin of the world, receive our prayer, and grant us thy peace. We yearn for peace – for peace for the world, for peace for our bodies. Peace for our souls. As we remember Jesus in the tomb, we pause acknowledging the pain and problems, the sin and suffering, the disease and death that were vanquished by God through Jesus by the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

John 18:36 Jesus (speaking to Pilate) said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place.”

The Good News: Driven by jealousy, hatred and greed, some people wanted to silence Jesus once and for all. Jesus, however, was not shaken in the face of this injustice; his faith and trust in God were unmoved. God’s ways are not our ways and neither is God’s Kingdom marked by geography or acreage. God’s Realm is marked by justice and joy.

Prayer: On this Good Friday, we come beneath the cross of Jesus to pray – humbly, tearfully, gratefully.

We pray for all who have not received or accepted the good news of salvation. We pray for those who have lost their faith; for those hardened by sin or indifference; for the contemptuous and the scornful; for those who are enemies of the cross of Christ and persecutors of his disciples and for those, who in the name of Christ, have persecuted others. O God, open all hearts to your truth and lead all people to faith and obedience. We pray for the grace of a holy life, that, with all who have departed this world and have died in the peace of your son Jesus Christ, and with all those whose faith is known to you alone, one day may we be accounted worthy to enter into the fullness of the joy of heaven and receive the crown of life in the day of resurrection. We humbly pray this in the name of your blessed son, our Lord and Savior. Amen.

John 14:1-3 Jesus says, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.”

The Good News: Even though Jesus knows that he—and not the disciples—will soon face the suffering of the cross, he is the one comforting his disciples (and us), saying, “Do not let your hearts be troubled.”

Prayer: Promise keeping God, we wonder about so many things. We ask, “Are we safe post-vaccine?” “Will the vaccine be effective against any variant strains?” “What about the future – for me? for the church? For our country? For the world?” How many questions must your Son have also had as the day of his crucifixion drew nearer. Thus, we are grateful that we do not go through this alone, but that you accompany us and know all our emotions. We pray for those who staff our hospitals and pharmacies, researchers and first responders. Protect them, Lord! Save us! Amen.

John 13:34-35 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

The Good News: After sharing the Last Supper, Jesus used the words, “as I have loved you.” He reminds us that we have first received love – and with this love we ought to love all others.

Prayer: Praise, glory, laud, honor to you, O God! In and through this Holy Week we remember how you packed so much into the last week of your earthly life. Prayerfully we now pause to reflect on the new commandment you gave. Love one another. We aren’t merely to lecture one another, to have high expectations of one another, but to love. Help us to show up when others are weary. Help us to listen when others are in need. Help us to be conduits of your lavish love. Thus, we lift up loving prayers for others. We pray for those in positions of responsibility and authority. We pray for those who are vulnerable and marginalized. We pray for those in our church and community. We pray for loved ones far and near. We pray for those whose self-esteem has been bruised. We pray that the Commonwealth of God would extend and expand and that, as far as it depends upon us, the circle of welcome would be wide. Thank you for embodying God’s love for us, Lord Jesus, in whose name we pray. Amen. 

Psalm 118:22-26 The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes. The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad. Lord, save us! Lord, grant us success! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.

The Good News: What is translated as “Lord, save us!” in verse 25 is, in Hebrew, “Hosanna.” As we are about to enter Holy Week, we know that Jesus was rejected by this world, but becomes the architect of our salvation. We are saved! Let us rejoice and be glad!

Prayer: Sometimes O Lord, we expect you to act like we want – just like the Palm Sunday crowd did so long ago. They wanted someone to liberate them from Rome, but instead they got so much more. So, save us from our limited thinking and narrow perspectives. We pray an expansive prayer – for peace not just for us, but for all nations. We pray for healing for the whole world. We ask that you would so renovate Creation that even our boldest hopes would seem small in comparison. So bring a holy inversion that there would be no first or last, no abundance vs. scarcity, no “haves” and “have nots” but rather that all would be enveloped in the glory of your Kingdom – on earth as it is in heaven. Praying for blessings for all – in the name of Jesus. Amen.

John 11: 33-35 When Jesus saw Mary weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. “Where have you laid him (meaning Lazarus)?” he asked. “Come and see, Lord,” they replied. Jesus wept.

The Good News: Jesus knew the reality of resurrection and eternal life. Yet that didn’t diminish his grief at the death of his friend. We too weep at all that seeks to diminish and demean: disease, depression, dissension, dementia, and death. Jesus is our companion both in sorrow and in joy.

Prayer: Gracious God – we thank you for all in this life that speaks of goodness. There are people who bless us with their support, nurture, and love. Thank you! Thank you for family members who sacrificed for us and provided for us and poured out unconditional love for us. Thank you for friends that listened to us and laughed with us. Even in our thanks we recognize that life is fragile and that those whom we have loved are taken from us far sooner than we would ever want. Heart ache is real. Tears flow. We wonder if we’ll ever be okay again this side of heaven. In these grief-times console us O God. Thank you for sending a Savior who cries alongside us and who is well acquainted with grief. With sacred memories we pause in prayer. Help us to continue a legacy of love until we all are gathered together in a reunion of unending joy. All praise to you O God: Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer. Amen.

John 11:25-26 Jesus said to Martha, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”

The Good News: This proclamation of Jesus, as he was talking about Lazarus, is bold and true. It got Jesus into trouble – setting into motion the trouble with the religious authorities who believed this to be heresy. The crucifixion would soon follow. But resurrection has the last word!

Prayer: O God of hope, your question to Martha is also posed to us. So, help us. We want to believe – and at many levels we do. But there are those nagging doubts. So when we feel that religion is just more rules or simply a morality code – help us to know, remember and believe that you sent your Son not to establish a religion, but to establish a relationship of love, grace and reconciliation. So help us when we are questioning to remember that you are okay with all aspects of our life. Give us faith for the journey, peace for the dark nights of the soul, mercy for when we sin, hope for the times when the road is too long, joy for the reality of heaven, and for the abundance of love that we can both give and receive without being depleted. Remembering those who have died and who we will see again, we bring our prayers of gratitude. Come, Lord Jesus. Amen. 

Daily Devotional: March 24, 2021

1 Corinthians 1:8–10 "He will also strengthen you to the end, so that you may be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful; by him you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord."

The Good News: Take heart. God’s love made manifest to us through his son, Jesus Christ, will never falter.

This was the devotional prayer from March 24, 2020. Keep praying! We’re more than a year into this pandemic, but God is at work.

Prayer: Powerful God – we are trying to have courage and feel strengthened, but there are just so many unknowns. But we do know, remember, and claim the promise that you are present, powerful, and perfect. So, we pray --- we pray for peace for our bodies, our minds, our souls. We pray for the healing of the nations. Especially be with those who are alone and those who are now unemployed. Help! In the name of the one who is the Keeper of Promises and the Composer of Grace, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Galatians 2:20 “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.”

The Good News: In this season of Lent many people “give up” something – eating meat, alcohol, chocolate, etc. The goal is to sacrifice as Jesus did. To be mindful of not our wants but the needs of others. God asks us to focus outward!

Prayer: It is hard to comprehend the depths of love and obedience of your Son, O God. Thank you Jesus for not swerving from the path to the cross. You didn’t opt out. You didn’t change your mind. You didn’t complain. But it couldn’t have been easy. So, in humility we just say, “thank you.” Thank you for loving us and for giving yourself for us. Help us to be attuned to how we can model your love for others. So many are sad, suffering, and silenced. Help us be people of compassion. Let your light shine through us so that others might see you living in what we do and say. Grant us love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Bring peace to your world. For the sake of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Matthew 6:34 “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

The Good News: We do worry! Worry is like being in a rocking chair – we expend a lot of energy and get nowhere! Rest in the presence and power of your Heavenly Father – who loves you unceasingly.

Prayer: We pause now to remember that we belong – in life and in death – we belong to you, O loving and faithful God. There are seasons of winter --- but also of spring. Times of challenge and times of ease. Times of joy and times of sorrow. To everything there is a season – and we know that you are with them in them all. Still we get anxious when we wonder about the future. So much is yet uncertain – so please, O God, place a spirit of calm into our troubled souls. Help us to change the things we can, to release to you the things we can’t, and to rest in the knowledge that you love us unceasingly, everlastingly, unconditionally. Thank you for the gift of your son, our Lord and Savior Jesus – through whom all ultimately will be well. Amen.

Romans 12:2 “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is — His good, pleasing and perfect will.”

The Good News: The world’s ways are often driven by ego. Christ’s ways are of self-sacrifice, laying down life, and loving even when it’s hard. Our God-set agenda? Not conformation, but transformation. God blesses you!

Prayer: Lord of love and life – we pray with gratitude for your blessings. Some days those blessings are really evident, and we give thanks. Some days those blessings are more hidden or more elusive, yet we still give thanks. Open us to your will that we might be refreshed by your Holy Spirit. Help us this day to be attentive to the needs of others. Thus it is that we lift up prayers for those who regularly go the extra mile – that person in our lives who just is an amazing source of encouragement. We pray blessings for people who have picked a vocation or taken a job within their vocation that could have paid more, but felt called to serve. For care-providers, for meal-preparers, for child-minders, for floor-cleaners, faith-sharers, for vaccine-administers, for joy-spreaders: thank you, O Lord! Amen.

Psalm 121:7-8 “The Lord will keep you from all harm — He will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.”

The Good News: We come and go. And come and go. And come and go. Our lives are filled with responsibilities and errands. Whether major travels or short-treks, God is watching, guiding, and keeping us close.

Prayer: O Lord – for many people the commute to work has shifted. The plans for vacations were altered. The miles put on our cars was significantly lessened. Yet we still come and go – just in different ways. Our ultimate destination is still the same. We want to journey with Jesus, even taking up our cross, so that we would end up with joy, peace, salvation, and eternal life. Thank you, God, for your amazing grace. So be with us (we know you are!) – as we venture out. Keep us safe. Bless us so that we can be a blessing to all fellow travelers along the way. Be our refuge. Be our home within the wilderness, a rest upon the way from the burning of the noontide heat, and any burdens of this day. Amen. 

1 John 4:8–9 "Whoever does not love does not know God, for God is love. God’s love was revealed among us in this way: God sent his only Son into the world so that we might live through him."

The Good News: Jesus has redeemed the world and is our only comfort in life and in death. Accept this gift of grace and rest with confidence in the arms of our merciful God.

Prayer: Ever gracious God, how wondrous and wonderful to know that we are not alone, but that you are with us… now and always. During this season of Lent we call to mind how your Son was obedient even unto death, and because of his obedience, we have life that is both abundant and eternal. All praise to you for bringing us back to you, though we have strayed and sinned. Mindful of all the brokenness in our world, may we be agents of renewal and reconciliation. When harsh words are spoken, may we respond with kindness. When others berate and bully, may we not retaliate, but take a higher road. It’s not easy, O Lord, to turn the other cheek – so strengthen us to love as you would have us love. We pray for our mission partners and organizations that combat the forces that destroy and demean: hunger, homelessness, prejudice, this pandemic, addiction, lack of opportunity… We pray for those whose esteem has been shattered and whose dignity has been diminished. Lift us up and let us love courageously after the example of our Savior Jesus, in whose name we pray. Amen. 

John 8:12 “Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.””

The Good News: Though the chaos and darkness are present, Chris is also present and the light dispels all darkness. Evil is defeated. Peace is God’s gift. Receive it and live!

A Gaelic Blessing:

Deep peace of the running wave to you;

Deep peace of the flowing air to you;

Deep peace of the quiet earth to you;

Deep peace of the shining stars to you;

Deep peace of the gentle night to you.

Moon and stars pour their healing light on you;

Deep peace of Christ, of Christ, of Christ, the light of the world to you.

Deep peace of Christ to you. 

1 Corinthians 16:13-14 “Stay awake, stand firm in your faith, be brave, be strong. Everything should be done in love.”

The Good News: So many of the problems in our world are because people are angling for more power, more money. God’s shows a better way – saying there is enough to go around. That doesn’t mean to be a doormat – no! Be brave. Be strong. But base everything you do in love.

Prayer: Precious Savior, sometimes we hold back from doing all we could and should to make this a better world. We confess that failing. Yet we want to do better. To be better. So, help us to accept that you cherish us, claim us, call us, and commission us – just as we are – for the up building of your Kingdom. So thank you for making each of us exactly how you did. Sure – there are things we might change, yet in your wisdom, you’ve given aptitudes and abilities to match what is needed in this world. So now, we pray for the opportunity to make a difference. Changing the focus from “we” to “I” – Lord I pray that, despite all that is going on in the world, may I, in my small sphere of influence, testify to your amazing grace and unconditional love, O God. May my words be clear in compassion and may my actions glorify your Name. So strengthen me, support me, sustain me. In response to your forgiveness, may I forgive. In response to your loving me, may I seek to love others generously. May thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Amen. 

Proverbs 3:3-6 “Don’t let loyalty and faithfulness leave you. Bind them on your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will find favor and approval in the eyes of God and humanity. Trust in the Lord with all your heart; don’t rely on your own intelligence. Know him in all your paths, and he will keep your ways straight.”

The Good News: We tend to make ourselves the center of the universe. God says that though we are chosen and cherished, it’s not all about us. We are to honor God and love our neighbor. Follow the pathways of God. Let him lead! It’s the better way.

Prayer: We want to trust you O God. That’s our prayer. Help us trust you. Day by day to trust you more and more. We pray that because it’s been a year of day-by-day. It’s been a whole year since we began to wonder, “What will happen? Are we really not supposed to gather for worship? How bad will this get?” So as we masked-up, and got used to washing our hands more often, and refrained from touching and traveling, we wondered. And we still wonder. The question of “how long” still lingers. We continue to be in awe of and lift up our deepest thanksgiving for our front-line medical workers. First responders – yes, thank you! We are grateful for those who helped pivot us into a world of zoom and on-line learning and contactless shopping. We continue to pray for those who have taken a hard hit – the suddenly unemployed, the small-business owners, those in the restaurant and hospitality business, teachers and students… So as we see signs of health and healing and hope, grant us resiliency. Help us to help others in this time of recovery, leaving no one behind. And so, O Lord, humbly but expectantly, bless all people – but in particular we lift up our friends and family. Bless our church so that we may be a blessing to others. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Lamentations 3:22-23 “Certainly the faithful love of the Lord hasn’t ended; certainly God’s compassion isn’t through! They are renewed every morning. Great is your faithfulness.”

The Good News: God gives strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow. There are times when we feel that God has abandoned us; there is so much sadness and sickness in our world. Yet we aren’t privy to the bigger picture in which God is actively and personally making all things right. So we wait and wonder and watch and weep. In them all, God is compassionate and cradles you in his arms.

Prayer: Glory, praise, honor and thanksgiving to you, O living God. We are grateful for the way that spring follows winter and day comes after every night. Thank you for babies born, birthdays and baptisms, and for reasons – great and small – for rejoicing. We look forward to the new ways you will bring grace and beauty and healing and help to our world. Not wanting to rush things though – we pause in thanksgiving for this day, a gift from you to us. Help us to breathe in the joy you intend for us. Help us to share your Holy Spirit’s encouragement with others. We are mindful though that not everyone is having a happy day – there are those who are hungry and homeless. Provide opportunities for them to having their needs met. Thus, provide opportunities for us to be partners in advocacy, provision and blessing. Sustain the aging; assist those who are ill; uphold those who are grieving. Help us Good Shepherd – for we ask you to lead us in love, liberate us from sin, and lavish us with your grace. In the name of, and for the sake of Jesus. Amen. 

Psalm 9:9 “The Lord is a safe place for the oppressed — a safe place in difficult times.”

The Good News: Despite the advances in vaccinations, these are yet difficult times. So little is certain. Yet what is certain is that the Lord is a safe place, therefore, fear not! Let God be your shelter.

Prayer: Shelter me, O God; hide me in the shadow of your wings. You alone are my hope. This has been a difficult winter – the snow has diminished opportunities to gather outside with friends and family; the dark and cold have added to the depression and isolation; we are weary of this marathon of dealing with covid-19. And yet…! You provide soothing safety, steady strength, and all-sufficient salvation. Thank you for the sunshine of spring. Thank you for the gift of your Son! Thank you for signs of hope and blessings all around. Thank you for so many who share unselfishly in their vocations, those who share as neighbors, those who share through small acts of compassion. We are grateful for those who brighten our world. May we also live and love like Jesus. Help us to transform this from “just another Friday” to a day in which we cultivate kindness and walk humbly with you O God. Amen. 

Romans 8:31 “So what are we going to say about these things? If God is for us, who is against us?”

The Good News: So many things purport to be against us – and indeed the roadblocks are many. Debt. Disease. Depression. Doubt. God deals decisively with these are more. The roadblocks are neither eternal nor ultimate. God is for us. God is for life. God is for love. God is for peace. God is for ever!

Prayer: Almighty and eternal God – thank you for giving us the gift of your Son. In this world we have many challenges, but with your Son, we have salvation. Eternal life! Meaning! Purpose! Love! And how we need those – because without your abiding hope, this would have been a lost year. We still don’t see what good you will bring from it, but we know that you are for us, and for that we are grateful. For us, it’s been now a full year since the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 virus a pandemic. A year of world-wide restrictions, world-wide loss, world-wide death. As we have been united in disease, may you unite us in faith. Help all people to lay down weapons, to listen to others more intently and forgive more often. Heal our world. We pray that you would turn the hearts of people to the love of your Son, our Lord, the one who went to the cross so that all would have life. Amen.

Psalm 107:1 “Give thanks to the Lord because he is good, because his faithful love lasts forever!”

The Good News: In these days when we aren’t singing indoors due to COVID-concerns about the spreading of aerosol germs, we yet have this song of praise. Reflect on the words: thanks, good, faithful, love, forever! Love lasts. No virus will halt the eternal embrace of our God!

Prayer: Gracious and giving God -- having been sought out and saved, we pray for others -- especially for those who suffer and those in need. We pray for children—in these days of pandemic, we pray that they would suffer no adverse effects, but would continue in the joys of finding friendship, of learning and growing, of playing and thriving. We pray for all of those who live alone, the homebound and the aged. Isolation is never easy, but in these times of restrictions, we lift up those who are dis-connected. Bring them a tangible sense of your presence and our concern. We pray for those who are absent from us—those who live far away, or are stationed in far places: our military, our missionaries; and for those who may live close but are far away because we aren’t able to visit as we’d like – especially those in hospitals and nursing homes. So bring a time of help and healing, we humbly pray in the name of Jesus. Amen. 

Psalm 107:1 "Give thanks to the Lord for He is good: His love endures forever."

The Good News: In our world not much lasts. We trade in old models for the new and improved. Instead of repairing things when they break, we just replace. We’re used to a disposable culture. But one thing lasts – endures – forever. God’s love is dependable. And God loves you. Always.

Prayer: Enduring and Loving God – praise be to you! We honor you and praise you for creating this world and for giving us others with whom we can laugh, and cry, and work, and create memories. Sunrises and seascapes; green pastures and still waters; the first hint of a daffodil emerging; a robin!? Thank you! We also pray for those who labor selflessly for our well-being… thank you for first responders (protect them), essential workers (encourage them), those who clean our homes and cook our meals (watch over them), employees and the many volunteers in mission agencies and soup kitchens and food pantries and group homes (bless them.) We lift up the homebound and frail elderly that they would know of your care and our concern. We pray for those expecting a child, may they greet the miracle of birth with a safe delivery and a joyous announcement. We pray for the lonely and those who are the least among us: grant your presence and your peace. In the name of God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen. 

Philippians 4:13 “I can endure all these things through the power of the one who gives me strength.”

The Good News: This pandemic can weaken our resolve. Our physical strength diminishes over time. Emotional reserves become depleted. Receive the gift of God who restores, reverses and reinstates. Weakness is replaced with the strength of God!

Prayer: Lord of our lives, are we really seeing the light at the end of this year-long tunnel? Thank you for hearing our prayers and bringing health and healing to our world. As the vaccine-roll out is reaching more and more people, we are cautiously encouraged that the time will come when hugs and handshakes will once again be offered and received. So continue to work in ways that allow for contacts and connections. We look forward to the possibility of coffee hours and choir rehearsals. Yet as we together work towards that, may we not take any of this precious life for granted. Help us to forgive more freely, to pray more regularly, to laugh more wholeheartedly, to offer to help more frequently. We pray for those facing surgery that your Spirit would guide the doctors and all who attend the procedures. We pray for those who are grieving that they would find comfort in memories that are forever sacred. And we pray for ourselves – for our place in your story, O God – may we be diligent in our praise and faithful in our witness to your grace and glory. Help us. Sustain us. Bless us that we would be a blessing to others, we humbly pray. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Hebrews 12:1 “So then, with endurance, let’s also run the race that is laid out in front of us, since we have such a great cloud of witnesses surrounding us. Let’s throw off any extra baggage, get rid of the sin that trips us up.”

The Good News: Can you call to mind the faces in the heavenly crowd who are cheering you on? They are there to encourage you. Let’s give them more to cheer about. Let’s ditch the sin and live with freedom and faith!

Prayer: You O God, in your wisdom and generosity planned that we would not be alone, but rather, in a truly amazing mystery, be accompanied by those past, present and even yet to come. Thank you! Thank you for those who have loved us and cradled us during our earliest years. Thank you for our schools (and for our church’s Early Learning Center!) and our teachers. Thank you for coaches and choir directors, for neighbors and godparents, for youth group leaders and scout leaders. Thank you for colleagues and co-workers. Thank you for missionaries. And thank you for those who are now part of the church triumphant – the saints who have blessed us on our way and now have peace in heaven with you, O Savior. Hear us as we remember them name by name… We feel our loss, but give thanks that there will be a glad reunion in that time when you will wipe away all tears, when mourning shall be turned to joy, and when death is defeated once-and-for-all-time. Come, Lord Jesus! Amen. 

Romans 5:3-5 “The Good News: We know that trouble produces endurance, endurance produces character, and character produces hope. This hope doesn’t disappoint us, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.”

The Good News: God doesn’t just give a bit of love, now and then, here and there. It’s poured into your life. And God knows we need it because we live in a world of trouble. Receive God’s love and you’ll learn to endure! Hold on to hope!

Prayer: O God of Abraham and Sarah, of the disciples and of Paul… O God of past, present and future, thank you for your abundance. Thank you that your grace is for everyone and that your salvation is offered to all. Thank you for our church family as it grows wider and deeper and stronger with our online connections. With these thanksgivings we also bring our petitions -- because so many people are having a tough time. We pray for those who are languishing physically; those undergoing chemotherapy, those with covid-19, those with bodily stresses and strains. We pray for those who are suffering mentally; those with dementia, those with “so much on their minds” that they toss and turn all night. We pray for those who are ailing emotionally; those with depression, those who are lonely, and those who are listless and without direction. We pray for those who are hurting economically; those who are unemployed or underemployed, those whose businesses took major hits during this pandemic, and those whose retirement funds are running low. We pray for those who are aching spiritually; those whose faith leaves them with more questions than answers, those who are walking through the valley of the shadow of death, and those who have been so affected by bad news that they cannot open their hearts to Good News. Hear us and help us, O God. Amen.

Romans 12:12 “Be happy in your hope, stand your ground when you’re in trouble, and devote yourselves to prayer.”

The Good News: It’s not easy to be happy just because we are instructed to do so. It’s not easy to stand your ground when the tough times come. But we can devote ourselves to prayer – and in so doing, we are provided a connection to God, contentment for our lives, and the conviction that trouble will not last.

Prayer: All praise and honor to you, O great and gracious God! As we march forth into the world you have given to us, may we pause to behold the beauty of creation, may we gripped by grace and surprised by joy. Although you are involved in the farthest-reaches of the galaxies you have made, you also fully care for each of us. That’s amazing. And such a blessing! So into our lives of burdens and blessings, help us. Guide us when perplexed. Encourage us when we’re in trouble. So it is that we are grateful for these moments of prayer. That you would invite us to share with you all that’s on our minds and in our hearts, is comforting. That you would then pave the way for us to receive your Spirit’s guidance is an encouragement and blessing. Thus we bring to you our deepest longings – that our lives would have purpose, that our loved ones would be protected, that our future would be one of peace. With our praise and our prayers we worship you, O Lord. Amen.

2 Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”

The Good News: Not that our past was necessarily bad - it is just that the future with Christ is guaranteed to be great. Jesus Christ is good news.

Prayer: O loving Lord – how we need good news. It seems like this has been a year of hard times. We pray that the hard times would come around no more. We are weary and worn down by the old arguments, the same-old-same-old problems that just persist. We read the news, but it almost as if the stories are the same, just the names change. Another natural disaster. Yet another mass shooting. Another tragic accident. Another politician saying whatever needs to be said to get elected. Another church-leader in yet another scandal of impropriety. Really, God?!? How can you let all this go on? Usher in your new creation; use this pandemic, as awful as it is, to help your world to recalibrate and get back on track. Renovate our souls so that we would be a society where respect and consideration and generosity and kindness would be ordinary and normal. But until that time comes when you, in power and judgement, make all things bright and new, help us cope. Grant us the comfort of your love and the companionship of your Spirit. Fill us with hope and create us to be conduits of your grace to all who are in need. For the sake of Jesus. Amen. 

1 Peter 5:10 “After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, the one who called you into his eternal glory in Christ Jesus, will himself restore, empower, strengthen, and establish you.”

The Good News: Some people suffer a bit. Some suffer more than just a little while. We don’t understand why things happen the way they do – but we can understand, and know, and claim the promise that tough times won’t last. We will overcome! God is in the restoration business!

Prayer: God of yesterday, today and tomorrow – we are ever-grateful that you entered into our history through your son Jesus. You didn’t remain just ‘creator’ – but also became involved in loving us, helping us, saving us. We cannot manage life as a solo act. So we thank you for those you’ve given to us to know and love. For grandparents and grandchildren… for siblings… for children and parents… for those who have become family through affection. We thank you for our church family – for fellowship opportunities (please, Lord, help us to get back to things like coffee hour and choir and dance lessons!). For the variety of ways our church is engaged in mission; thank you for giving us opportunities to bear witness to your love through our sharing. We give thanks for our congregation’s educational opportunities – Bible studies and church school, on zoom! And we thank you that sixty years ago today President Kennedy announced the creation of the Peace Corps – so for that program and how it has been a worldwide blessing both to volunteers and for those receiving assistance -- we return thanks. So continue to provide peace – and use us to do that – to be proclaimers of your peace, practitioners of your peace, promoter of your peace. Come, Lord Jesus! Amen. 

Revelation 21:4 “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more. There will be no mourning, crying, or pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”

The Good News: What joy awaits! It certainly isn’t the case yet – we are well acquainted with mourning and crying and pain. But we are gripped by the grace of God that assures us that the day will come when all will be right, all will be peace, all will be joy! What a day of reunion and rejoicing!

Prayer: God of solace – we turn to you as we think and remember those who are sad and sorrowing. We are all too well acquainted with grief. We lift up to you those who endeavor to relieve suffering, heal disease, and reduce the emotional aches and physical pains of life. Thus we are grateful for the work of (and ask your blessing on) doctors, nurses, veterinarians and those who work in their offices. For those doing hospice work. For EMTs and first aid providers. For first responders. For hospital personnel. For scientists and researchers and pharmacists. For psychiatrists and counselors. For dieticians and therapists. For morticians and funeral directors. For ministers and church staff members. For social workers and counselors. For volunteers at soup kitchens and food pantries and homeless shelters. There is so much need, O God – but despite all the heaviness of heart, you also lift us up. So grant us glimpses of grace, whispers of love, and hints of heaven. We bring before you those who are ill and languishing. Thank you Jesus for going to the cross so that we would be ultimately healed, forever forgiven, and granted life eternal. We lift high the cross, the love of Christ proclaim, until all the world adore your holy name, O God. Amen. 

Romans 8:24–25 “We were saved in hope. If we see what we hope for, that isn’t hope. Who hopes for what they already see? But if we hope for what we don’t see, we wait for it with patience.”

The Good News: There is so much we can’t see, but that means that we abound in hope! Hope is not just wishful thinking or some passive “wait and see.” Yes, it involves patience, but there is a very powerful, active sense to hope. God is involved – so we hope for many things because we know the source: God, who is our Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer!

Prayer: It’s meant to be funny, but it contains truth when we ask: “O Lord, grant me patience – but please give it to me now!” We had been a society that grew to expect instant results – we were all about fast food, speedy internet and quick answers. This pandemic has certainly slowed us down. Not wanting to be impertinent, but don’t you think we’ve got the point? We weren’t able to worship together for Easter. But we adapted. We weren’t able to travel for vacation. But we sacrificed. We opted out of large family gatherings for Thanksgiving and Christmas. But we wanted the common good and to flatten the curve and to save lives. But, “how long, O Lord?” So thank you for the vaccines – we are grateful. May more and more people be able to get appointments and bring us into a season of re-learning how to interact safely, compassionately, vivaciously, and lovingly. Help our economy to rebound, our businesses to revitalize, and all your people to live with hope in their hearts. In the name of Jesus, living Lord and Savior. Amen. 

John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that He gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life."

The Good News: What a beloved verse! That is because it encapsulates the Good News. Jesus + Us = Eternal life!

Prayer: Thank you, loving and grace-filled God! Thank you for this day – despite any challenges and concerns, problems or pain, you provide us with your presence. Thank you for sharing your Son with us. To have you identify with our every-day needs and our highs and lows (laughter and tears) makes all the difference. We are not alone – and for this we return heart-felt thanks. Yet we confess that sometimes, O God, we wonder why we are here. Just to try to learn information so we can earn a paycheck so that we might have enough to someday retire? What is our purpose? Is our future just more isolation and the dread of disease? Implant grand dreams into us, and provide opportunities to make meaningful differences in this world. We don’t want to just exist. So give us people to love. And a world to care for. And beauty to create. Lots of times we can’t figure out what we are supposed to do in your grand plan, so make it clearer how we can make the burdens of others lighter, any injustices fairer, and the faith in eternal life stronger. Bless us so that we might reflect your goodness and glory. Direct our paths, for the sake of Jesus, our Lord and Savior of the World. Amen.

Psalm 107:1 "Give thanks to the Lord for He is good: His love endures forever."

The Good News: God has been leading and nurturing and nudging all of creation towards the time when justice and joy will meet, when salvation will be our full and final gift, when love endures forever.

Prayer: Perhaps this is just another Tuesday on the calendar. We have chores to do and lists to complete and taxes to file and e-mails to return. With you O God, the ordinary becomes extraordinary. This is a day of your provision. Thank you for loving us! Hooray for love! We are not alone. In response, we lift up our prayers of gratitude for your amazing grace. Thank you for giving us the companionship of your Holy Spirit. Come into our lives to renovate our souls that we would see you more clearly, love you more dearly and follow you more nearly, day by day. As we return our gratitude, we remember before you those in society who are empty. Those with empty wallets, empty stomachs, empty emotional reserves. Please come and fill up those in need. And help us to be a blessing to those who are suffering. We pray for those who word in food pantries and soup kitchens. We pray for those who staff homeless shelters and advocate for long-term solutions for society’s chronic problems. We pray for those who provide respite care and those who provide nurture at group homes. So many needs O Lord. But you also match that with your presence and purpose. Thus, come Lord Jesus to make this a day infused with help, hope and healing. Amen! 

Isaiah 66:13 "As a mother comforts her child, so I will comfort you…"

The Good News: What a delightful analogy! We are cradled and lullabied. When the night is too long we are soothed, and when the day is tough, we are reassured of God’s unconditional love.

Prayer: Tender God – when the world is too harsh and we feel bullied and ready to break, come and comfort us. Too much of life isn’t fair. Bad things happen to good people and good things happen to bad people. So we sigh. And wait for you to make things right. But waiting is hard because your timing isn’t our timing. So in the meantime, hold us and help us …when the job we want goes to someone else …when we get picked last, or sometimes not at all …when the doctor says, “it’s cancer” …when the one we love, loves someone else …when we are falsely accused …when the night is too long. So be as a mother to us and bring the comfort that is so needed, especially in this time of COVID detachment. We long to be held and to be reminded that although it seems all wrong, that it will be all right. Help all your dear children, O God. (And if you don’t mind our impatience, “please hurry.”) With mindfulness of the needs of others, we come to you in prayer. Amen. 

Psalm 23:4 "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me."

The Good News: Though and through. Two words that are so close in spelling in the same verse. Though we live with suffering and sadness, God leads us through. We are not left in the valley forever. God is with us. Through the cross we are conquerors. Death is defeated!

Prayer: Precious Lord, take our hand and lead us through the darkness, the disease, the depression, the difficulties. Claiming your perfect provision, we lift up prayers of gratitude for all those who are life affirmers. So among the many we could call to mind, today, O God, we thank you for… grandparents… for doctors and physician’s assistants and nurses and EMTs… for pets… for the person who didn’t honk their horn even though we inadvertently cut them off in traffic… for missionaries… for philanthropists and generous benefactors… for physical therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, counselors… for people who make us laugh… for funeral directors and those who offer comfort and clarity in distressing times… for brewers and vintners and distillers… for novelists and poets… for those who plow the snow and shovel our sidewalks… for teachers… for people who ask “how are you” and then stop to listen to our response… for your Son, our Savior, Jesus, in whose name we pray, Amen. 

Matthew 17:20 "Our faith can move mountains."

The Good News: This doesn’t mean “Just believe hard enough, and you’ll get what you want.” Our relationship with God isn’t some magical power, but rather that mountain-moving faith comes from trusting God and yielding to God’s will. God wants and wills ultimate blessings.

Prayer: God of provision and protection, we call on you this day! We are grateful that vaccines are happening and that there is a light at the end of this siege of covidity (dare we even believe that to be true?) But even getting an appointment to get the vaccine seems like an obstacle course. So help us navigate these days. May all who want and need this inoculation get it – and quickly. We are putting so much hope that once most receive it then we’ll be better able to plan. We want to plan to travel. We want to be able to attend weddings and baptisms and even funerals. We want to go to restaurants. We want to hug and kiss. We want to sing in choir. Yes, we want!!! Is that greedy or too demanding, O God? I hope not. I hope you understand our fragile emotions. But we also lift up prayers that we may, despite what comes, trust and obey You. Not our will, but yours be done. We yield to your Upper Story of provision and salvation and blessing. So humbly we say, “please hear our prayers and be mindful of our needs.” For the sake of Jesus, Amen. 

John 4:18 "There is no fear in love; for perfect love casts out fear."

The Good News: Some fear is innate and some we have learned. Let us also learn that we were created not to live in fear, but to live by the law of love. Love God and love your neighbor and all will be well.

Prayer: Ever-present and Ever-loving God – thank you for all that you do for us. Though you are creator of the cosmos, you care for each of us as if we were the only person in the world. Your focus and love is that genuine. Wow! And we pray “wow” because, we confess, there are plenty of times when we don’t feel so loveable. We don’t trust fully. We don’t follow the commandments. Lots of times we can’t even remember what the commandment all are! Yet you still love us with an everlasting love. So yes, “wow.” Your forgiveness is full and your blessings are real. So we come with longing hearts, asking that you would cast out our fear. We are afraid of so many things – afraid that you will forget or forsake us. We are afraid that our health will fail us. We are afraid for our children and grandchildren that they will encounter violence, hatred, and a fractured future. And we are afraid of being alone, left out, left behind. So give us love. Please, O heavenly Father, give us people to love, and grant that some will love us. In the name of Christ, our brother, Amen. 

Genesis 3:19 ”By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food until you return to the ground, since from it you were taken; for dust you are and to dust you will return.”

The Good News: Our lives are rarely as long as we’d like, but we get worn out and worn down. So yes, ashes to ashes and dust to dust. But this earth is not the only venue of life. Heaven and eternal life are our destiny. We remember our mortality, but do so in the context of resurrection!

Prayer: (from the Book of Common Prayer; Church of England/Episcopal Church; prayer for Ash Wednesday) Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: Create and make in us new and contrite hearts, that we, worthily lamenting our sins and acknowledging our wretchedness, may obtain of you, the God of all mercy, perfect remission and forgiveness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. 

Psalm 107:1 "Give thanks to the Lord for He is good: His love endures forever."

The Good News: Many take the opportunity for feasting and fun on this day before we settle into the penitential season of Lent. Although we live with the all-to-real evidences of this pandemic, may we remember that after the cross there is the empty tomb, that after death there is eternal life. We were created not for despair, but for joy!

Prayer: O Holy Spirit – may we dance to your rhythm of celebration! We know the challenges of life (and death) all too well. We aren’t pretending that there isn’t unemployment and that all is just rainbows and puppies. So we do pause to lift up in prayer those who are sorrowing and suffering – be their strength and stay. But also, grant us the eyes to behold beauty and the ears to perceive the promise of joy. We call to mind the mountain-top, breath-taking moments of “wow!” We call to mind those people who make us laugh. We call to mind the unconditional love of pets. We call to mind the music of the spheres that is so ineffably sublime. So send your angels today to prod us into gratitude and grace. Fill us to overflowing with the love of Jesus so that others may receive from our faith-abundance, the blessedness of being your cherished child. Thank you God for always loving us – and for ultimately saving us and granting us eternal life. Alleluia! Alleluia! Amen.

Matthew 11:28 "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."

The Good News: There are times when we have energy and enthusiasm, but there are times when we are weary, worn and weak. It happens. But no matter what, we are never alone. We are invited to cast our concerns into the wide embrace of God. God receives them and gives us rest.

Prayer: Okay God – are we supposed to be learning lessons through this pandemic? Eleven months in and we’re trying… trying not to take anything for granted, trying to be more generous to small businesses, trying to focus on what we do have rather than what we don’t. Though we are grateful that there are signs of hope, too many have died of COVID-19. We grieve for them and with their loved ones. We are heart-heavy that people have been so isolated – not being able to visit, to hug and hold, to extend care. Babies are born and we can’t cuddle them; People are dying and we can’t comfort them. So, yes – sometimes we are angry about all this, but mostly we’re just worn down. Hear our cries. Bring relief. (Soon!) So thanks for hearing us and that more are being able to receive the vaccine. Heal our world. Help our souls. When we are weary, give us your rest, and when the healing seasons come, grant us opportunities to extend your blessings. In the name of our risen Lord, Amen.

1 John 4:7-8 Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love.

The Good News: Love is one of those words that covers a multitude of situations. But this isn’t “I love French fries” or “I love handbells” (as good as they are!) – this is self-sacrificing, God-glorifying love of other people… all people. Love wins!

Prayer: God of Life and Love, you have created us for connections. Your design is that we ought n7ot be alone, rather to be part of a community. And sure, relating to/living with/being neighbors with other people can lead to challenges. We are sinful people and don’t always put the needs of others before our own. So forgive us when we push our own agenda or insist on getting our own way. As it has been said, “just because we have a right to, doesn’t mean it’s right to.” Help us to be more loving, following the example of Jesus. As we pray for raising our own kindness-quotient, we pray for those we are given to love. We pray for our families – for those who nurtured us, and who picked us up when we were down. We pray for those who loved us enough to guide us in faith. We pray for those who have shared our moments of pure joy, and for those who came alongside in our deepest sorrow. Thank you for those we love and so we just pray for their happiness, well-being and protection. Enlarge our circle of love and blessing. Help us not be alone. We pray in thanksgiving for the cherished love and friendship of Jesus, Amen.

Psalm 138:3 "When I called, you answered me; you made me bold and stouthearted."

The Good News: Throughout the centuries there have been untold dangerous and desperate circumstances. God does not abandon his children but instead responds to our cries and gives the spirit of bravery and courage to the right people at the right time to do accomplish great things.

Prayer: O God. I pray for all sorts of things – for protection and safety for my loved ones, for health and happiness, for deepening faith, for our country and our world. I pray that those who are in need would find support and help, so that those who are hungry would be fed, and those who are lonely would be find companionship. I thank you that you hear not only these prayers, but also prayers that aren’t fully formed. One of those prayers is that you, O Lord would grant me courage for the living of these days. Not that we see ourselves as being in the league of, say, Abraham Lincoln, but if the occasion should arise?... May we step up to do what would need to be done to promote justice, to extend faith, to lift high the cross. Thus we pray for all those who already serve diligently and quietly, but oh so effectively and necessarily. We pray for missionaries and believers who live in Christian-minority countries. We pray for those in our military and first responders. We pray for those who sacrifice popularity or position in taking stands on behalf of those who are too often marginalized, bullied or voiceless. May we be found faithful. For the sake of Jesus, Amen. 

Psalm 149:4 "For the Lord takes delight in His people; He crowns the humble with salvation."

The Good News: You are royalty! But the crown is not for those who are all about self-promotion or pride. God lifts up those who put others first, who encourage others, who are humble.

Prayer: We lift up those who live and work so that our lives may be safer, better, brighter. Watch over and lay your protecting shield of grace on those who serve selflessly. For teachers. For those working in continuing care communities, and nursing homes, and rehab centers. For parole officers and prison guards. For scientists and researchers. For sanitation workers. For therapists. For long-haul truckers. For enlisted military personnel, firefighters, and police officers. For snow plowers and shovelers. For chaplains. For farmers. For musicians and artists. For doctors and nurses. For those who do home deliveries of food, prescriptions and packages. For moms and dads. There are so many who contribute to the fabric of society who continue doing what they do without seeking accolades or amassing personal credit – for those who are un-named and under-appreciated, we simply whisper, “thank you God for giving us such a community of commitment.” May we then in turn be a blessing to those who seek support from us. May we be conduits of blessings even as your Son, O God, is the best of all blessings. To you be all glory, honor and praise. Amen and amen.

Hebrews 11:1 "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen."

The Good News: We cannot see the Holy Spirit – just the evidence of how the Spirit acts. We cannot see love – just the blessings that love provides. We cannot know the future – yet God will provide, not in ways that we would predict, or sometimes frankly in ways we even want. God is persistently working in ways that ensure our salvation.

Prayer: O God of wows and wonders – we praise you for crisp mornings and stellar sunsets. We lift up our gratitude for the intricacy of your creation – from the unique crystalline snowflake to the push-pull of the oceans’ tides. Thank you for babies’ babble, for poet’s precision, and the kindness of strangers. What mysteries of beauty: a symphony by Beethoven, a school of fish swimming in tandem, the synchronicity of mind and muscle. Who can account for these blessings? Thank you, O Triune God, for the blessings which are so lavishly given. Now we look forward to the time when we can worship in community together! So bring healing to our world. Banish this virus. Do not let any variants take hold. There already has been too much sickness, sadness and suffering. We walk into the future by faith, and in the name of our Savior Jesus. Amen.

1 Peter 5:7 "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you."

The Good News: Anxiety! Now there’s a word for the 21st century. We are anxious about so many things – from our health, our finances, our democracy, our safety, the vaccine (How to get it? Will it work?), to the weather forecast and what to wear. God invites us – actually we’re instructed – to give all these, big and small, over to God. Because you are cherished! Never forget that!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, you are strong enough to deal decisively with the myriad of problems in the world (thank you!), and you are tender enough to embrace each one of us personally. Thank you for giving us your Son Jesus. We need Him to have access to your holiness despite all the ways in which people have colluded with evil. The problems of the world persist, yet because of our Savior, they will not, cannot, persevere. Your grace, love, mercy, and peace prevail! So it is with gratitude that we give you all our fears and worries. Take them. All of them – all of those things that make us anxious: our finances, our health, our country’s division, the weather, meeting new people, the future… So forgive our sins, give us a glimpse of your promised joyful future, and bless us, we humbly pray. In the name of, and for the sake of Jesus. Amen. 

2 Corinthians 5:7 “For we walk by faith, not by sight."

The Good News: We prefer to walk being able to see what’s ahead. We don’t want to stumble or fall. And that’s good for hiking or managing stairs. But when it comes to the journey of faith, God shines a lamp onto our path just far enough into the future to carry on, but not see the entirety of the road. We trust God, who guides. How good it is that we cannot know every aspect of what the future holds. But by faith – we know who holds the future!

Prayer: Loving God – we entrust the events of our yesterdays to you. Help us savor memories that are sweet, and may you sanctify those that are sour. For today, we bring ourselves, wanting and willing to be vehicles of praise and blessing. For the chores and appointments of this Monday, we ask for You to watch over us, to protect us, and to surprise us with joy. For the days and weeks yet in the future – help us to trust you. Like a child standing on the edge of the pool, scared to jump, help us leap forward knowing that you are there to catch us. You will not let us fall. So grant us the assurance for those things that are unseen. We obviously don’t know what is in store for us, but please – improve our lot. May our lives travel in pleasant places. Keep the variant strains of the virus contained. May more and more of us become immune. And guide and watch over our country in these days of challenge, trial and anger. Help us, Lord Jesus. Thanks for listening… Amen. 

Psalm 119:50 “This is my comfort in my affliction, that your promise gives me life.”

The Good News: Life is not always easy. We toil and we struggle. There is yet racism and sexism; there is yet homophobia and xenophobia. So many afflictions. YET! – yet with God what is positive and good and right and true is what is lasting. We are not defined by labels – excepting the one that says that we are children of God.

Prayer: O Lord of life – too many aspects of life seem to be about getting and gaining, having and hording. We spend a lot of energy making sure we are first in line, or that no one will have more than we have, or that others will lose so that we can win. Help us remember that winning has its time and place (football, tomorrow, Tampa), but that life isn’t a game. You love us each and you love us all. There is enough to go around! Thank you for your blessings and help us to be generous in sharing them. To that end, we are mindful of those who are dealing with hardship. We pray for those who are grieving. For those who are struggling to make ends meet. For those who are persecuted for their faith. For those who feel left out. For those who feel left behind. For those who have had challenges come out of left field. We pray for owners and employees of businesses that are hit hard economically because of the pandemic. We pray for the unemployed. We pray for the sick and ailing. We pray for those marginalized and stigmatized. O Lord, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Come, Lord Jesus. Amen. 

Isaiah 40:31 "But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint."

The Good News: God gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but no matter our age, God embraces us and cradles us with the renewal of the Holy Spirit.

Prayer: O God of both now and then, of there and here – thank you for your care and providence which is for always and everywhere. So we give thanks and ask for strength. For our infants and toddlers – thank you for their very presence – how they are a vote in favor of tomorrow just by their smile, their baby-smell, their innocence. Keep them in your care. We pray for our elementary and middle school-aged children; thank you for their inquisitive natures and their cuddles. Keep them in your care. We pray for our high school and college-age youth; thank you for their fearlessness and desire to make the world a better and brighter place. Keep them in your care. We pray for those whose focus is on establishing careers, creating relationships, starting homes, and a cultivating a personal faith. Keep them in your care. We pray for parents and grandparents; for those of middle-age and increased responsibilities. Keep them in your care. We pray for those who are retired and in the so-called golden years as they seek to be purposeful and healthy. Keep them in your care. So O Lord – whether 6 months, 16, 36, 66 or 96 years old – watch over us. Guide us. Love us. Bless us. In the name of Jesus. Amen. 

John 3:16–17 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.”

The Good News: Eternal life! What we have here and now is sacred, blessed and good – but it’s only for now. What endures is life that is freed from pain, problems, sadness or worry. Accept God’s offer of love. Invite Jesus to lodge with you. With that, a glad reunion awaits for all those who live eternally with God.

Prayer: God of our life, through all the circling years, we come to you in prayer and with praise. What an awesome reality – that we are not our own, but belong, body and soul, in life and in death, to you. So we will, one day (not so soon, please!) join with all the heavenly hosts and all those who lived before us – and even those who will come after us. I can scarcely imagine the joy of that reunion. So as we still yet are people who grieve here on earth, we ask for your sustenance and provision. We weep with those who weep, and we rejoice with those who rejoice. Thus we pray for those on hospice care (and for their nurses and caregivers). We pray for those whose loved ones died suddenly and life literally changed in a minute. We pray for those with other losses – loss of a dream, loss of a relationship, loss of a job, loss of a pet, loss of a pregnancy, loss of health, loss of faith. We also pray for those with good news – we celebrate those with new opportunities, those welcoming a child, those getting married despite not having a reception as they might have planned, those for whom the relationship with you, O God, has taken on a vibrancy heretofore unexperienced. So, for the mountain-top moments, we thank you. For the dark nights of the soul, we ask for your profound presence. In them both, thank you for not failing, nor forsaking us. In the name of God – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit: Amen. 

Deuteronomy 31:6 "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."

The Good News: More than just watching from a distance, God goes with us; God takes us by the hand and guides on our earthly journey until that day when we lay our burdens down and God leads us home. Blessings today; blessings forever!

Prayer: We’ve been spending a lot of time, O God, at home and isolated. The pandemic, the colder temperatures, the snow – these all keep us from gathering. Frankly, it’s taking its toll. There are just so many TV shows that we can watch or jigsaw puzzles we can do. We are grateful for facetime and zoom calls, but how it would be fun to have church coffee hour and just have a casual conversation with others! – to make new friends and savor old relationships. And to think of those seeking romance and dating? – how challenging to create connections like those during these days?! Thus, we plead with you gracious God, to help make the vaccines – or whatever way you choose – to bring health, healing, hope and happiness. Yet we aren’t all just about our petitions, we do also offer our prayers of thanks. We are grateful for hobbies to pass the time, for these moments of less-busyness so that we can pause to pray, for the simplicity of a cup of coffee, for snow angels, and for real angels that watch over us and are with us in ways we cannot even fathom. Thanks for loving us! Thanks for leading us home. Thank you, God. Amen.

Matthew 6:33 “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."

The Good News: In fun, many look for the groundhog’s shadow; as Christians, we also look for the Kingdom of God. With God there is no shadow of turning! God changes not, God’s compassions, they fail not. As God has been, forever will God be. “Great is Thy faithfulness!”

Prayer: God – whether or not there will be six more weeks of winter, we have it today! As we dig out from the accumulated snow, help us to pause and appreciate the beauty of your creation. And we thank you that we live in an era of central heat, indoor plumbing, snow plows and cell phones. What conveniences! Yet as some lose power, or must work long hours for our safety, or deal with homelessness and hunger, we are mindful of our neighbors. We are on our journey of life with responsibilities to love, care for, feed, check on, pray for, and help others. Bless us Heavenly Father that we may then be a blessing to others and so enlarge your Kingdom. To your glory, we pray. Amen.

Psalm 23:1 "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want."

The Good News: These words – and the faith expressed in this Psalm – has comforted many throughout the ages. As we yet contend with a pandemic, we seek the nurturing protection of the Great Shepherd. Jesus provides!

Prayer: (from Rev. W. Y. Fullerton, 1920)

I cannot tell how he whom angels worship should come in flesh as prophets long foretold, or why the Shepherd longs to save the wanderers and bring them back rejoicing to the fold. But this I know, that he was born of Mary when Bethl'em's manger was his only home, and that he lived at Nazareth and labored, and so the promised Savior of the world, is come.

I cannot tell how silently he suffered, as with his peace he graced this place of tears, or how his heart upon the cross was broken, the crown of pain to three and thirty years. But this I know, he heals the broken-hearted, and stays our sin, and calms our lurking fear, and lifts the burden from the heavy laden, for still the suffering Savior of the world is here.

I cannot tell how he will win the nations, how he will claim his earthly heritage, how satisfy the needs and aspirations of east and west, of sinner and of sage. But this I know, all flesh shall see his glory, and he shall reap the harvest he has sown, and some glad day his sun will shine in splendor when he the risen Savior of the world, is known.

I cannot tell how all the lands shall worship, when, at his bidding, ev'ry storm is stilled, or who can say how great the jubilation when ev'ry heart with perfect love is filled. But this I know, the skies will sound his praises, and countless voices then will join to sing, and earth to heaven, and heaven to earth, will answer, 'At last the living Savior of the world is King!' 

Psalm 46:7 “The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.”

The Good News: A fortress is a place of safety and security. It is also a place from which we can mobilize the sharing of God’s Good News and the living out the ways of Jesus. Praise be to God!

Prayer: So many people help make our lives better. Thank you O God for them – for neighbors who pick up our mail when we go on vacation. For our veterinarians, our pharmacists, our school nurses. For coaches and choir/band directors. For those who fix our cars, our furnaces, our wells. For librarians. For those who plow the snow and de-ice our roads. For those who bake birthday cakes. For tax accountants. For dry cleaners and coffee baristas. And as so many work and care in order to make our lives nicer, so then O God, may we be agents of blessing for others. Take whatever talents/abilities/aptitudes we have, no matter how meager, and use them to lead people into deeper faith, and to reflect the compassion of Jesus. Make us servants today! Amen.

1 Peter 4:8 "And above all things have fervent love for one another, for love will cover a multitude of sins."

The Good News: Not just love – but fervent love. As the world is filled with disease and dis-ease, we need to be active and bold in reaching out to others with the kindness, grace and love of God.

Prayer: How wonderful it is that you, O providing God, have given us the gift of love. Of course it hurts immensely then when love is absent, ah but to have the blessing of love give and love received? – nothing compares. So bring love to our world. Thus we give thanks for pets that can become as family. We thank you for friends with whom we can laugh and cry and dream and create memories. And thank you for those who loved us in such a way as to make us who and what we are. Help us to be channels of your love unto others. As we pray and offer praise for you unconditional love O Lord, we lift up our desire to impact others positively by our example and our kindness. May we not take love for granted nor pass up an opportunity to make someone else’s day a bit brighter. For, above even all these, we pause to receive the love of Jesus. Oh how great is that love. So thank you for loving us. For never leaving us. For eternally saving us. Alleluia! Amen!

Isaiah 40:29 "He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless."

The Good News: At some time we are all weak, weary and worried. But fear not! We are given power from God. God does not leave us alone or without support. God walks with us when we are strong and carries us when we are weak.

Prayer: How marvelous are you O living Lord! You build us up when we are down, accompany us when we are lonely, guide us when perplexed, forgive us when we are wrong, and save us from destruction. So, as you strengthen us, may you also encourage us. We are so undone by the ongoingness of this pandemic. How long, O Lord??? We thought that the “curve was flattening” and that we might soon be regathering. But the finish line feels like somehow it got moved. We’re still running this marathon. And we’re tired. So help us not to give up. Cheer our weary souls. It’s hard to know what that might look like – but we trust that You do. So surprise us with joy. Bless us we Good News. Restore our emotions and heal our bodies. Thus we pause in gratitude for all those who do bring encouragement, walking companions, phone-calling friends, strangers who perform random acts of kindness, and prayer partners. Bless us so that we might be a blessing to others. In the name of Jesus, amen.

Romans 12:9 "Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good."

The Good News: Hold fast! There is good in our world – and we have the task, as people who are saved by grace alone, to love others. How will we follow the ethic of Jesus to care for others, especially the least, the lonely, the lost.

Prayer: O might morning Star, light of the world, our Lord Jesus Christ, we begin this Monday with our adoration and praise. For the beauty of the earth, for the gifts of friends, faith and family, for the advances being made in overcoming this pandemic, we lift up our hearts in gratitude. Yet there is so much work yet to be done. So we pray for those serving as leaders in government. We pray that you would guide them so that what is done is pleasing and acceptable in your sight. We pray for our military and their families for peace, safety, and protection. We pray for those who combat evil through words of faith, deeds of mercy and acts that promote “good.” So disband dissension, do away with disease, deconstruct depression, defy the demonic and defeat death. You are all-powerful, all-knowing, and ever-present, O God. Reign in power and authority now and always. All praise to You -- the Lord of lords and the King of kings. Amen. 

Ecclesiastes 7:9 "Be not quick in your spirit to become angry, for anger lodges in the heart of fools."

The Good News: Too many people live with mean-spiritedness, rage and resentment. The Old Testament preacher in our scripture reminds us that anger is not the path to faith, forgiveness, and fortitude. We must choose a different path.

Prayer: Creating, restoring, mending God – into our fractured world we pray you would send your Spirit in new ways for the healing of the nations. It’s almost like we are captivated but also oh-so-tired of the news. What will happen next? Will the extremists (on both sides) so pull us apart that there will be no healthy, happy center? So re-connect us… to you, O God… to one another… to those with whom we agree… and with those whom we don’t… Thus, as we pray for renewal and reconciliation, we also offer prayers of thanksgiving for the many, many, many people who live faithfully, serve compassionately, and give sacrificially. Humbly we pray that we might be among these folks and that you would add to our number. To you, O Lord of blessing, we bring our praise. Amen.

Psalm 31:25 "Be strong and take heart, all who hope in the Lord."

The Good News: Strength is needed for tumultuous times. The Psalmist reminds us that hope is not some elusive “wish” but rather a promised connection to our salvation-giving God.

Prayer: Kind Savior, many of us have learned from a young age the truth “Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so. Little ones to Him belong – we are weak but He is strong.” That strength is not a power that is utilized to brow-beat us into submission but rather a strength to support us when we are down and out. And that’s been us these past months. The isolation has been more than challenging. The threat of violence has been simmering. So strengthen us. Save us from the ways of this world and instead help direct us to walk in the paths of peace and to live by the tenets of your Kingdom. Have mercy on us! Give us reasons to look forward with hope. And so, O Lord, let me close with gratitude for the basis of that hope – Jesus! Thank you the love, companionship and salvation you give to us through him. In the name of, and for the sake of Jesus. Amen. 

Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you... plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

The Good News: God is timeless and frameless – and God’s ways are part of an unseen-to-us Upper Story of provision and salvation. God has plans! They will always be for ultimate good.

Prayer: Great and gracious God – many things have changed, and much is still yet the same. The losses due to COVID-19 remain real and challenging. We are grateful for the work done to get a vaccine developed and approved relatively quickly. Thank you to all who are masters of science and research! Yet now there are challenges of distribution and who gets appointments and how. So speak to our uncertainty and bring to fruition the hope of healing and health. We pray for the new administration in Washington, DC and ask that you direct the paths of all those elected and appointed to serve that they may do so being attentive to the guidance of your Holy Spirit. We bring our prayers in the name of God – Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer. Amen. 

John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that He gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life."

The Good News: We pray for the world that God so loves. We pray for every nation, but on this day of Presidential inauguration, especially for our nation. God is the Leader of leaders and Sovereign of all.

Prayer: My country, 'tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing; Land where my fathers died, land of the pilgrims' pride, from ev'ry mountainside let freedom ring!

My native country, thee, land of the noble free, Thy name I love; I love thy rocks and rills, Thy woods and templed hills; My heart with rapture thrills, like that above.

Let music swell the breeze, and ring from all the trees sweet freedom's song; Let mortal tongues awake; Let all that breathe partake; Let rocks their silence break, the sound prolong.

Our fathers' God to Thee, Author of liberty, to Thee we sing. Long may our land be bright, with freedom's holy light, protect us by Thy might, Great God our King! 

Amen. (Words: Rev. Samuel F. Smith, 1832) 

1 Peter 1:23 "You have been born anew, not from perishable but from imperishable seed, through the living and abiding word of God."

The Good News: God is active and near to those who call upon Him. God’s word abide. We are not alone!

Prayer: 

Lord, make me an instrument of Thy peace;

that where there is hatred, I may bring love,

that where there is wrong, I may bring the spirit of forgiveness,

that where there is discord, I may bring harmony,

that where there is error, I may bring truth,

that where there is doubt, I may bring faith,

that where there is despair, I may bring hope,

that where there are shadows, I may bring light,

that where there is sadness, I may bring joy,

Lord, grant that I may seek rather to comfort, than to be comforted;

to understand, than to be understood:

to love, than to be loved;

for it is by giving that one receives;

it is by self-forgetting that one finds;

it is by forgiving that one is forgiven;

it is by dying that one awakens to eternal life. Amen.

(Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi)

Philippians 4:19 “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”

The Good News: We have many, many needs. Yet for every one of those needs, God meets each need and supplies support. God’s forgiveness is ours through Jesus. God’s provisions are for you!

Prayer: Thou Eternal God, out of whose absolute power and infinite intelligence the whole universe has come into being, we humbly confess that we have not loved thee with our hearts, souls and minds, and we have not loved our neighbors as Christ loved us. We have all too often lived by our own selfish impulses rather than by the life of sacrificial love as revealed by Christ. We often give in order to receive. We love our friends and hate our enemies. We go the first mile but dare not travel the second. We forgive but dare not forget. And so as we look within ourselves, we are confronted with the appalling fact that the history of our lives is the history of an eternal revolt against you. But thou, O God, have mercy upon us. Forgive us for what we could have been but failed to be. Give us the intelligence to know your will. Give us the courage to do your will. Give us the devotion to love your will. In the name and spirit of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

(written by the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.) 

1 Corinthians 13:13 "And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love."

The Good News: God provides us with the capacity to love and be loved. Our hearts are full with the blessings of friends, family, food and faith. Let us not take these for granted. Abide in the knowledge that love lasts; love wins!

Prayer: O bright morning star – so much seems so hard and harsh. The daylight is short. The temperatures are chilly. The world is shut-down with COVID-19. Our country is on edge with the possibilities of destruction and the reality of deep divisions. Our souls are drained as we cry out to you –do not fail us nor forsake us. Hear our desperate prayers. Help us. Heal us. And even as we can feel so isolated and even helpless, you come to us with your love. Thank you for surrounding us with many blessings. For our material blessings, thank you. For the opportunity to share with those in need, thank you. For the freedoms we enjoy, thank you. For selfless volunteers and essential workers, thank you. For the vaccines, thank you. For companions on the journey of life, thank you. For love, thank you, thank you, thank you. In Christ’s name. Amen.

2 Timothy 4:17 "But the Lord stood with me and gave me strength."

The Good News: We cannot exist by our own merits and we are not victorious through our strength, but rather because of God. Let us remember that our help is in the name of the Lord who made heaven and earth.

Prayer: Surprise us with your presence this day, O God. Bring to us the peace that passes understanding. Fill the earth with your glory. Amaze us with your grace. For along with the physical infirmities and illness, there is a deepening emotional toll with the pandemic’s isolation and the country’s divisions. Anxiety is running at high levels for all ages – even our children are picking up on signs that so much is uncertain. So help us, Mighty God. Give us strength. Do not delay. Stop those who rely on violence to solve differences. Turn these dark days into the dawning of your amazing grace. We need you, heavenly Father. Make us instruments of your peace. Amen. 

Matthew 13:43 "Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of the Father."

The Good News: God will separate the good seed from the weeds. Everything that causes sin and all who do evil will not have ultimate power. Those who are saved by God’s grace alone will endure.

Prayer: Abiding God – so much is in tension. It’s the proverbial “waiting for the other shoe to drop.” So as we wait and wonder – erase any future that is comprised of violence, hatred and bigotry. So much has become weaponized – the response to the coronavirus, our elections, even interpretations of what it means to be a faithful Christian. How did it come to this? We want to bask in the sun of your glory as we seek to honor You and love our neighbor as you have commanded. So come to us and abide with us. Help us to know that we – each and all – are your children and that your Kingdom is expansive. So bring peace to us, our country, our world. In Jesus’ name and with the power of the Holy Spirit we pray. Amen. 

Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

The Good News: We can be – and often are – frightened. Yet God is with us, ever and always. Lean on God. Look to God. Lift up your needs to God.

Prayer: O Lord our God, when I in awesome wonder consider all the worlds thy hands have made, I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder, thy power throughout the universe displayed. When Christ shall come with shout of acclamation and take me home, what joy shall fill my heart! Then I shall bow in humble adoration, and there proclaim, “My God, how great thou art!” (text by Stuart Hine) 

Scripture: Psalm 62:6 “God only is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken.”

The Good News: The world twists and turns but God is sure, strong and steadfast.

Prayer: Dear God – we cry out with anxious hearts. Help! The world is filled with so many challenges. Whoever thought we’d still be dealing with physical distancing and the many effects – emotional, physical, mental and economic – of COVID-19. 19! That was when this began – and here we are in 2021. Help! And then there is the situation with our government – the vast divide between ideologies. People not just disagreeing but being violent? Help, O God. So please – guide us, support us, sustain us. We pray for the vaccine to be effective. We pray for our leaders. We pray for our future. We pray for the generations yet to come that they will not be overwhelmed with discouragement and debilitated by worry. Bring your light to dispel the darkness and bring truth and hope. Come and heal our world from disease and from unhappy divisions. In the name of, and for the sake of Jesus. Amen.

Matthew 11:28 Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

The Good News: Jesus has promised to come alongside us to help shoulder our problems. Just as we are about to collapse from the weight of all the burdens us, God promises rest. We need not carry any of this alone. Picture your problems as a heavy stone – and give it to God. God is so much more able to deal with it than we.

Prayer: It’s true God. We’re weary. Worn out. Weak. Worried. Help us not to give out or give in. We all have problems – for some it’s about money, others it’s dealing with an addiction, others it’s about broken relationships, other’s mental health, others it’s feeling lonely or without purpose. But whatever it might be named – we need help. We pray for our country and its leaders – give wisdom and courage for the living of these days. And this pandemic has only made what was already a challenge, even worse. Jobs have been lost. AA meetings canceled. Health compromised. Isolation has taken its toll. So speak a word of blessing to us. Bring some Good News today. Lift our spirits and give us reasons to smile. Perhaps that sounds demanding, God. And we don’t mean it to be, but it’s just that we’ve never experienced anything like this – and it’s hard. So forgive us. And bless us so that we may be a blessing to others. We pray for farmers and food-service providers. We pray for delivery personnel and mail carriers. We pray for our military. We pray for firefighters, police officers and first aid personnel. We pray for health care professionals. We pray for those with cancer and dementia and for their caregivers. We pray for those waiting to die and those waiting to be born. We pray for teachers and students. We pray for parents and children. We pray for those celebrating birthdays. We pray for our church. We pray for our world. That’s a whole lotta praying, God! But the needs are great. We are just so grateful that you are even greater. So, thank you. Amen. 

John 12:46 "I have come as a light to shine in this dark world, so that all who put their trust in me will no longer remain in the dark."

The Good News: The world is chaotic, but God brings peace. There is the reality of evil – but it is both denounced and defeated though the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Prayer: Shine, Jesus, shine! And as you shine on us, may we then reflect your grace onto the others who comprise our spheres of influence. So we pray for our families. Our church family. Our communities. The places where we work, shop, eat, serve. Hasten the time of healing. Sustain us. We pray for those who serve as missionaries, whether abroad, or we who share Good News in word and deed. We pray for those serving in our military, those who are police officers, fire fighters, EMTS, health care workers; we pray for their families. Save and help us all. O God, banish the dark and bring forth the light of Christ! Amen.

Psalm 46:1-3 “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult.”

The Good News: God is stronger than angry mobs and is a refuge that can never be breached. Yes, there is much commotion and challenge in our world – but God is steadfast and sure. Look to God for steady support.

Prayer: O Lord of lords – as we read the news we can feel unmoored. So be an anchor for our worried souls and keep us and our country and our world in the grip of your grace. We come with so many emotions, yet how good it is to know, remember and realize that you are a refuge for us in times of trouble. So guide our governmental leaders; restore peace; humble the proud and lift up those who lead according to your purposes. There is so much anger and chaos, so provide for us the peace of Jesus, your Son, the light of the world. Amen.

1 Peter 1:3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

The Good News: A living hope! It is not stale, nor past-tense – not in ways that we fully understand, but we will survive!

Prayer: To you be all glory and honor, preserving God. Over all the earth and all that we hold dear, bring the grace of your presence. May we always acknowledge your place and presence in our lives. Restore health and reestablish opportunities to gather, we humbly pray. Use us to be beacons of hope to those who are languishing. So it is that we come in prayer, with thankful hearts. Sustain us and those we love. Energize us by your Spirit that we might embody your hope and enjoy your creation. Liberate us from disease, difficulties and doubt. Launch us forward in faith, in gratitude, and in praise, even as we say, “amen.” 

Isaiah 60:1-3 Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you. See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the Lord rises upon you and his glory appears over you. Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn.

The Good News: The Epiphany Good News – God’s light shines on all nations – and all people, the great and the least, the rich and the poor, the weak and the strong, in sickness and in health, in joy and sorrow, in tragedy and triumph.

Prayer: Lord of all the earth, we lift up gratitude for rich traditions of the peoples of the world. Yet the diversity of languages and the differences in faiths breeds suspicion and even hate. So come, O God, to unify your world. This pandemic has left no corner of the globe untouched. As the virus has infected/affected us all in some way, may your Spirit counter that by infusing us all with grace, mercy, hope, love and peace. May an epidemic of kindness and respect be an epiphany blessing to us all. Bring joy to the world! In the name of the Lord of lords and King of kings -- Hallelujah and Amen. 

Galatians 4:4-7 But when the fullness of time had come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, in order to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as children. And because you are children, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father!” So you are no longer a slave but a child, and if a child then also an heir, through God.

The Good News: The fullness of time! God’s timing is not our ours; God’s ways are not ours. That has become even more obvious in the past ten months. Though we may not understand, God’s ways bring perfection… in God’s time.

Prayer: We pray, O God, for our country. We say we are “one nation under God” yet there is dissension and a lack of unity. So many are afraid of violence. So many feel they do not having a voice. So many think that the system is such that they do not have the possibility of being valued. So many feel they are not included in the American dream. So many decry the possibility of losing what has been achieved by hard work. So many are saddened and scared by the erosion of traditions. So many resent being labeled. Help us to listen and learn, to care and compromise, to help others succeed, and to remember that you, O God, are the Source and the Sovereign, the Lord of us all. To you be glory and honor. Bring peace to us in the fullness of time, Heavenly Father. Amen.

Luke 2:25-32 Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; this man was righteous and devout, looking forward to the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit rested on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. Guided by the Spirit, Simeon came into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him what was customary under the law, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying, “Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.”

The Good News: Simeon waited and waited – in faith – to see the Messiah. For what have you waited that finally came to fruition? Recalling that, yet again, offer praise!

Prayer: Lord of yesterday, today and forever – just as Anna and Simeon watched faithfully and diligently waited for your arrival, so give us strength to persevere. Give fortitude especially to those who struggle with isolation, with economic instability, with addiction, with a lack of purpose. What is to become of us? So much threatens to undo us. So bring your Spirit of blessing to heal those who are sick and re-form those who are broken. As classes resume after a holiday, may students and teachers be given a special measure of your encouragement. In and through Jesus, amen. 

Titus 3:4-7 When the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.

The Good News: Kindness is a key note of God. Love is with us – salvation is the gift of Christmas. Receive it and rejoice!

Prayer: Merciful Lord, come to us and abide with us. We pray for no new strains of viruses. We pray for the efficacy of the vaccines. We pray that curves are flattened, that the census in hospitals would lessen, that those that we love in particular, would be protected and kept safe. We know not what the new year will hold for our world, but we do know who holds the world. So thank you for not forsaking us, O God. Come and reign in power and majesty. Save us. Pour out your Holy Spirit to restore, rejuvenate, renew, and reconcile. We need help… In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Matthew 1:23 “…and they will call him Emmanuel,” which means, “God with us.”

Christmas Pondering: When have you felt most alone? What best provides a reminder of the Good News that God never leaves your side?

Carol: Emmanuel, Emmanuel, his name is called Emmanuel. God with us, revealed in us, his name is called Emmanuel.

Prayer: So many need a reminder of your presence, Heavenly Father. We pray that, in a real and tangible way, that those who are afraid may given hope; that those who deal with addictions may find strength and sobriety; that those who are estranged from family may find paths of forgiveness and reconciliation; that those who are lonely may encounter others to come along side and be present; that those who are seeking employment or more meaning in their work may find opportunity and purpose; that those who are grieving may abide in the knowledge, truth and promise of resurrection. In Christ’s name. Amen.

Luke 2:19-20 Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.

Christmas Pondering: Silently ponder the Good News of Jesus’ birth, then sing the Doxology: “Praise God from whom all blessings flow…”

Carol: Though an infant now we view him he will share his Father’s throne, gather all the nations to him; every knee shall then bow down. Come and worship, come and worship, worship Christ the newborn King. (fifth stanza of “Angels from the Realms of Glory.”)

Prayer: We praise you, O great God and Savior. To you be all honor and glory. As the angels have said, “fear not” may we receive that, believe it, and echo it. Use us, O God to reassure the world that, through Jesus, we will have nothing ultimately to fear. Though the dangers and difficulties are real, God is working and, in God’s timing, make things better. So as we wait for crying, mourning, and even death to be no more, bring your comfort to those who are feeling loss, those for whom the Christmas/New Year’s season is more wistful than joyful. Come and restore our spirits, O Holy Spirit. Humbly we pray, amen.

Luke 2:15-18 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.” So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them.

Christmas Pondering: Tell one person what you know and believe about Jesus. Tell that same thing to a different person tomorrow.

Carol: Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere; go, tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born!

Prayer: Abiding God – like the shepherds we typically go “with haste” – but to so many things that just cause us to be busy. Yet with the virus, we’ve had to slow down. So many plans have been canceled. Travel has been limited. Gatherings only on line. Ugh. Yet may you enter into our still spaces to bring a sense of refreshment, refocus and rejoicing. Bless us that we may be a blessing to others. Support and sustain all those who are called to work so that we may be safe and healthy. Especially we lift up hospital personnel during this time of increasing number of corona-virus patients. Keep them fortified and protected. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Luke 2:13-14 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!”

Christmas Pondering: In these days of non-caroling together, how will you proclaim God’s glory? How will you promote peace?

Carol: Angels we have heard on high sweetly singing o’er the plains, and the mountains in reply echo back their joyous strains. Gloria in excelsis Deo! Gloria in excelsis Deo! (Praise to God on high!)

Prayer: Lord of life – we continue reflect on the glory of Christmas. May we recognize your gift of love and joy each and every day – and then pass it on. May others see in me the light of faith and salvation. So help us to persevere. Bring peace to our world. Especially we pause to lift up in pray missionaries who are sharing your Good News across the globe. We long for the day when the lion will lay down with the lamb in harmony; when Russia and China and North Korea and Israel and Iran and the United States will all be united by your over-arching power and peace. Guide our leaders with your wisdom to follow in your ways. Thank you, Jesus. Amen. 

Luke 2:10-12 The angel said to the shepherds “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.”

Christmas Pondering: What brings you great joy this day? What signs do you use to point you to Jesus? How will you direct others to the Good News of Jesus?

Carol: Good Christian friends, rejoice with heart and soul and voice; give ye heed to what we say: Jesus Christ is born today; ox and ass before him bow, and he is in the manger now. Christ is born today! Christ is born today!

Prayer: Gracious and Loving God – thank you for all that we’ve received from You. What bounty! Though the world brings its share of difficulties and disappointments, you bring peace and beauty and harmony and blessing. Joy to the world! Because of Christmas, we will never be completely alone. We are not forsaken nor forgotten. Thank you for the gift of Christmas presence. This is a year of disruption and with few of the usual traditions, yet despite all we cannot do, we still are cherished everlastingly. Hasten the end to this pandemic, and when that happens, may we never neglect to embrace those we love and to help our neighbors in need. To you be all honor and glory, the babe of Bethlehem who is the Sovereign of all. Alleluia. Amen. 

Luke 2: 8-9 In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.

Christmas Pondering: If an angel came to you tonight, what would you say?

Carol: It came upon the midnight clear, that glorious song of old, from angels bending near the earth to touch their harps of gold: “Peace on the earth, goodwill to men, from heaven’s all gracious King” - the world in solemn stillness lay to hear the angels sing.

Prayer: Seal our joy, O God. Lift our hearts. Lighten our loads. On this holy night, may the darkness be dented by the power of your illumination, never again to hold any power. We pray for the renewal of all things, the restoration of relationships, the resurrection of life. Thank you for gracing our world and for dwelling in our hearts and homes. We pray for all churches, we pray for our friends. We pray for our families – keep them safe wherever they may be. Bring peace on earth, good will to all. In the name of, and for the sake of Jesus. Amen.

Luke 2:6-7 And while they were there, the time came for her to be delivered. And she gave birth to her first born son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

Advent Pondering: Think of those who have been displaced – physically, spiritually, emotionally, mentally, economically. How can you be a person of hospitality?

Carol: Infant holy, infant lowly, for his bed a cattle stall; oxen lowing little knowing Christ the babe is Lord of all. Swift are winging angels singing, noels ringing, tidings bringing: Christ the babe is Lord of all.

Prayer: Good news of a great joy! For all people! So we pray for the people of this earth. In all our diversity, bring a unanimity of focus – praising you, O God. So we pray for a resurgence good will. May we be bound together, seeking solutions to hunger, homelessness, climate concerns, prejudice, addictions, and disease. Unite us in hope, bless us with healing, and commission us to deeds of compassion. We are tired of all the problems, so help us turn the corner to a better, brighter future. In Christ’s holy name. Amen.

Luke 2:1-3 In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be enrolled. This was the first enrollment, when Quirinius was the governor of Syria. And all went to be enrolled, each to his own city.

Advent Pondering: Name three things that are special about the town in which you grew up.

Carol: O Come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant, O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem! Come and behold him, born the King of angels; O come, let us adore him, O come let us adore him, O come let us adore him, Christ the Lord!

Prayer: O Lord, you teach us to number our days – to not take anything for granted. But even as years ago there was the great enrollment or census, which required Joseph and Mary to travel to Bethlehem, this year our nation has been embroiled in a count and recount. Is life really boiled down to the numbers? So much anger and partisanship has now taken root that holiday cheer has been dampened. So rescue us. Bring back a spirit of shared patriotism for a common good. Sustain our economy. Disbar prejudice. Disallow festering falsehoods. Instead, let us look beyond numbers to behold your truth, power and glory and grant unto You our worship and praise. Amen.

Matthew 2:11-12 And going into the house they saw the child with Mary, his mother, and they fell down and worshipped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts: gold and frankincense and myrrh. And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way.

Advent Pondering: Plan a gift that you will give to someone who will probably not give you a gift in return.

Carol: Then entered in those wise men three, full reverently upon their knee, and offered there in his presence their gold, and myrrh, and frankincense. Noel, noel, noel, noel, born is the King of Israel. (fifth stanza of “The First Noel”)

Prayer: O God – as you give to us life and salvation, in this season of shopping and gift-wrapping, give us also a compassionate spirit. That’s a request that’s offered with humility even as it sounds like a demand! It’s just that we have been through so much and so many are in such need. So, by your compassion, come alongside doctors, nurses, hospital personnel, nursing home residents and staff, so that they may have the fortitude to continue to keep them healthy. Thank you for how they, in addition to the medical expertise applied, they have become agents of hospitality, standing in for those who cannot visit. And bring your blessings to those who are spending this Christmas week in the hospital or otherwise isolated. Come, Lord Jesus! Amen. 

Matthew 2: 9-10 When the Magi had heard the king, they went their way; and lo, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, ‘til it came to reset over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.

Advent Pondering: Look at the stars tonight. Which direction is east?

Carol: O star of wonder, star of night, star with royal beauty bright, westward leading, still proceeding, guide us to thy perfect Light.

Prayer: Leading Lord – as you guided those of old, we implore that you would guide us now. Lead our leaders. Give wisdom to meet the demands of these challenging times. Bless missionaries, chaplains and clergy that they may boldly lead us into your Light. Strengthen the weak, console the grieving, come alongside the lonely. We pray for those who serve as EMTS, police officers, firefighters, first aid personnel, and those in our military. Protect them and us. In Christ’s name. Amen. 

John 1:14, 16 And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth. From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.

Advent Pondering: Jesus lived on earth like we do. What do you think made him happy? What things made him sad?

Carol: Of the Father’s love begotten, ere the worlds began to be, he is Alpha and Omega, he the source, the ending he, of the things that are, that have been, and that future years shall see, evermore and evermore!

Prayer: That you, O God, would love us to such a depth as to send us your Son – is cause for wonder, gratitude and joy. Thank you for the blessings of this, and every season. Rather than lingering on the longings for “the way things used to be” refocus us towards all that we yet have and are able to enjoy. So, for colors that bring beauty, for carols that elicit happiness, for companions who care, thank you, loving Lord! Help us to live gratefully and generously as we reflect your amazing grace. Amen.

John 1:12-13 But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God, who were born, not of blood or of the will of the flesh or of the will of man, but of God.

Advent Pondering: Think of three children. How can you (will you) help them grow in God’s love?

Carol: Be near me, Lord Jesus; I ask thee to stay close by me forever, and love me, I pray. Bless all the dear children in thy tender care, and fit us for heaven, to live with thee there. (third stanza of Away in the Manger)

Prayer: The innocence of childhood is wide-eyed and wonderful. Thank you for those years, loving Father. And each age and stage of life has its blessings. So we pause in gratitude. And bless all your dear children – the youngest to the oldest. We pray for those babies who have only known this season of physical distancing; we pray for those whose last years are being robbed of a crown of being surrounded by family and friends. Help us all. Stay close by us. Love us. In the blessings of the Babe of Bethlehem. Amen.

John 1:9-11 The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him. He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him.

Advent Pondering: In what ways do you welcome Jesus into your home and life?

Carol: Silent night! Holy night! Son of God, love’s pure light, radiant beams from thy holy face, with the dawn of redeeming grace, Jesus, Lord at thy birth, Jesus, Lord at thy birth. (third stanza of Silent Night)

Prayer: O good and gracious God – we are living with such conflicted emotions… the anticipated joy of your redeeming grace, but also with the reality of a nation divided, a world diseased, and lives so disrupted. So in these days of quiet desperation, come to us by your Spirit to bring relief to the needy, food for the hungry, hope to us all. Amen.

John 1:4-5 In him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

Advent Pondering: Turn off as many lights as you can, except one (perhaps a candle.) As you let your eyes adjust, release your fears to God saying, “Thank you Jesus for being the Light of the World.”

Carol: I wonder as I wander, our under the sky, how Jesus the Savior did come for to die for poor ordinary people like you and like I; I wonder as I wander, out under the sky.

Prayer: O God – it’s been nine months of lock-down and covid-concerns. Nine months! And we are not out of this yet, so we bring our prayerful pleas: Help! Bring hope! Provide healing! As you use nine-months to gestate a new life, use this time to bring life to us that is abundant and eternal. We pray for our church, our communities, our country, our world… Amen.

John 1:1-3 In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God; all things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made.

Advent Pondering: What is the first thing in your life you can remember? Why do you think you can remember it?

Carol: Hail the heav’n-born Prince of Peace! Hail the Son of Righteousness! Light and life to all he brings, ris’n with healing in his wings. Mild he lays his glory by, born that man no more may die; born to raise the sons of earth, born to give them second birth. Hark! the herald angels sing, glory to the newborn King!

Prayer: Ah, holy Jesus – we come with gratitude that you would empty yourself of glory, taking on human form. Thank you for becoming one of us, bridging the way between our sin and your salvation. So it is we pause in thanksgiving for the grace of your presence, for our church, for our community, for our country, for the world. Thank you for Christmas decorations and signs of joy despite the challenges of this pandemic. Thank you for the dedication of personnel who deliver our mail and transport all the items from our on-line shopping. Bless us that we may be a blessing to others. In Jesus’ holy name. Amen.

Luke 1:46-49 And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden. For behold, henceforth all generations shall call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name.”

Advent Pondering: This Scripture begins the Magnificat, Mary’s song of praise. What is your favorite Christmas carol? Why?

Carol: What Child is this, who, laid to rest, on Mary’s lap is sleeping, whom angels greet with anthems sweet, while shepherds watch are keeping?

Prayer: God of all people – there are so many rejoicing, yet so many suffering. This day we particularly lift up those who work long hours, live in challenging economic situations, and those who are hungry, cold and homeless. For the refugees of the world, we pray for your deliverance and our support. May we be channels of your grace and conduits of peace. Come, Lord Jesus! Amen. 

Luke 1:34-35, 37-38 And Mary said to the angel, “How shall this be since I have no husband?” And the angel said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God… for nothing is impossible with God.”

Advent Pondering: What would your response be if you were Mary? How would you feel? After answering, read that Mary’s response was: “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.”

Carol: O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie… above thy deep and dreamless sleep, the silent stars go by. Yet in the dark streets shineth the everlasting Light. The hopes and fears of all the years, are met in thee tonight.

Prayer: Good and gracious God – how thrilling is the reminder that nothing is impossible with you. For we face limitations and frustrations and difficulties and challenges with regularity. Not to mention sickness and the anxiety of an unknown future. So come to us with your perfect peace. We bring both our hopes and fears to the manger of your presence. In expectation and gratitude we pray. Amen.

Luke 1:32-33 “He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David. And he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; and of his kingdom there will be no end.”

Advent Pondering: God gives us great promises. Make one promise to help someone else – and do it!

Anthem: And He shall reign forever and ever. King of kings! and Lord of lords! King of kings! and Lord of lords! And He shall reign forever and ever, forever and ever, forever and ever. Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

Prayer: O King and Lord – we need your majestic authority to banish evil and restore Good. We pray that you would replace chaos with harmony, exchange hate for love, substitute sickness with healing, do away with our anxiety and in its place bring peace. We pray for our first responders, health care workers and essential workers. Sustain them… and us. In Christ’s name.

Luke 1:28-31 And the angel Gabriel came to Mary and said, “Hail, O favored one, the Lord is with you!” But Mary was greatly troubled at the saying, and considered in her mind what sort of greeting this might be. And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus.”

Advent Pondering: What was the most recent piece of good news to come to you? If you shared that news, with whom did you do so? If you didn’t share it – consider doing so!

Carol: Still, still, still, one can hear the falling snow. For all is hushed, the world is sleeping, holy star its vigil keeping; still, still, still, one can hear the falling snow.

Prayer: O Lord, how we long for the angelic assurance, “do not be afraid.” For the world is a dark and dangerous place many times. Life is fragile. So we pray for your favor to be with us – to meet our concerns. We pray for our family and friends. We pray for our health and well-being. We pray for our country and its economy. We pray for our church and its ministry. We pray for those who are in need – that you would meet them in the very midst of whatever their sufferings may be called. Help us. Heal our world. In the name of Jesus. Amen. 

Luke 1:26-27 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary.

Advent Pondering: Think about your parents/grandparents. Can you recall the story of how they met?

Carol: Mary, did you know that your baby boy would one day walk on water? Mary, did you know that your baby boy would save our sons and daughters? Did you know that your baby boy has come to make you new? This child that you've delivered, will soon deliver you…

Prayer: O holy Child of Bethlehem – we are grateful for holiday traditions, and for the generations past who helped shape us to be the people we are today. So for those who endured much so that we could have easier lives, we give thanks. And we give thanks for Church School teachers, for choir directors, for scout masters and coaches and youth group leaders, and all those who pointed us to the blessings found through Jesus. So use us we humbly pray that we could be that kind of helper for the upcoming generations in this time of challenge and crisis. Reflect your light through us unto this waiting and watching world. Amen. 

Isaiah 9:6-7 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given… and his name will be called “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” …The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.

Advent Pondering: List as many names/titles for Jesus as you can. Which is your favorite? Why?

Carol: Then pealed the bells more loud and deep: “God is not dead, nor doth he sleep; the wrong shall fail, the right prevail, with peace on earth, good will to men.”

Prayer: O God, seventy-nine years ago Pearl Harbor was attacked precipitating our country’s overt involvement in World War II. What a day of infamy! Yet we have had more of such days than we’d like to count. Peace is elusive and we feel under attack as a nation with the war on terror, but also personally with this war with the virus. And certainly we have personal attacks as well. How we need a Savior! You know our needs, O God. Come and restore our joy. Please. Do not delay. Amen. 

Isaiah 9:2-3 The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shined. Thou hast multiplied the nation, thou has increased its joy, they rejoice before thee as with joy at the harvest.

Advent Pondering: What is your favorite time of day? At night, what is your favorite source of light?

Carol: Joy to the world! the Lord is come; let earth receive her King; let ev'ry heart prepare him room, and heav'n and nature sing, and heav'n and nature sing, and heav'n, and heav'n and nature sing.

Prayer: We praise you that you are the God of light and creation, not of darkness and chaos. There are many dangers and difficulties in our lives right now, O Lord. Many are depressed who have never known that debilitation before. So send a sliver of hope. Let the light of your love shine so that healing can happen and doubt may be dispelled. Help us! Through Jesus, our Lord, Amen. 

Isaiah 35:3-4 “Strengthen the feeble hands, steady the knees that give way; say to those with fearful hearts, “Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with vengeance; with divine retribution he will come to save you.”

Advent Pondering: Think of someone who is in a weaker position than you and how you can help strengthen him or her.

Carol: Come, Thou long expected Jesus, born to set Thy people free; from our fears and sins release us, let us find our rest in Thee. Israel's strength and consolation, hope of all the earth Thou art; dear desire of every nation, joy of every longing heart.

Prayer: O holy Child of Bethlehem, free us from a narrow-perspective that limits our hopes and prevents the flourishing of your Kingdom. So strengthen us all – and especially those who are on the front-lines of battling this virus. Use us to increase the level of care and compassion to all people. Through Jesus we pray, Amen. 

Isaiah 40:9-11 Lift up your voice with strength, O Jerusalem, herald of good tidings, lift it up, do not fear; say to the cities of Judah, “Here is your God!” See, the Lord God comes with might, and his arm rules for him; his reward is with him, and his recompense before him. He will feed his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms, and carry them in his bosom, and gently lead those that have young.

Advent Pondering: Pretend you are a shepherd. What kind of animals are in your flock? What responsibilities do you have? What expectations?

Carol: Shepherds in the field abiding, watching o'er your flocks by night, God with us is now residing; yonder shines the infant Light: Come and worship, come and worship, worship Christ, the new-born King.

Prayer: Thank you for your everlasting Love and Light, O God. Using the verbs of our scripture passage, we are grateful that you feed, gather, carry, and lead. As you have done for us, please also now do for others. Feed those who are hungry and experience food scarcity. Gather those who are vulnerable that they would know safety. Carry those who are weak and weary – so many are experiencing worry and need your comfort. Lead the leaders of our world so that the power they have may be used for the blessing of others and the healing of the nations. We need you, O God! Hear us and give us Jesus! Amen.

Isaiah 40:6-9 A voice says, “Cry out!” And I said, “What shall I cry?” All people are grass, their constancy is like the flower of the field. The grass withers, the flower fades, when the breath of the Lord blows upon it; surely the people are grass. The grass withers, the flower fades; but the word of our God will stand forever. Get you up to a high mountain, O Zion, herald of good tidings.

Advent Pondering: What is one thing you wish would never change? Why?

Carol: O holy night! The stars are brightly shining, it is the night of the dear Savior's birth. Long lay the world in sin and error pining, ‘til He appeared and the soul felt its worth. A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices, for yonder breaks a new and glorious morn. Fall on your knees! Oh, hear the angel voices! O night divine, the night when Christ was born; O night, O holy night, O night divine!

Prayer: O God, you who are our guiding light – we live in a world of sin and error. But we thank you for your Holy Word that tells of the greatest story, that of Good News, of love, of eternity. We give thanks that you give us the gift of love and pray that you will always sustain us despite our great need, and that you would watch over those whom we love that they would abide in hope, be kept safe and healthy, and receive the gift of faith. Come, Lord Jesus. Amen.

1 Samuel 16:7 “But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.’”

The Good News: This scene about choosing a King for Israel in the Old Testament reveals that God often uses unlikely people to carry out his plans. We live in a world of glamor, celebrity, wealth – but God is not interested in a person’s popularity, but rather in one’s character. Focus on living with faithfulness and integrity and selflessness.

Prayer: O Righteous Judge, give us strength and fortitude to be the kind of person you want and that the world needs. It’s so easy to crave the praise of others. Help us not to seek to be admired for the way we look or the things we own or the power we wield, but rather to humble ourselves so that we can be servants of others – helping, caring, encouraging. So we lift up in gratitude those who give of themselves so selflessly. We thank you for volunteers giving of their time and talent to make this a better world. We thank you for those who donate blood and plasma. We thank you for EMTs and firefighters and police officers. We thank you for teachers. We thank you for public defenders. We thank you for those who wash dishes and clean our clothes and haul away our garbage. So many give and serve in order to make this a better world. Bless us O God, that we might be a blessing to others and to work for the up-building of your Kingdom. Come, Lord Jesus! Amen. 

1 Corinthians 13:13 "And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love."

The Good News: God gives so much. This verse from First Corinthians doesn’t diminish faith or hope – because they are so important, good and needed. Yet it does elevate love – which bears all things and endures all things. Love never ends. God loves you… and always will.

Prayer: O God – what a different year this is! In the past many people would have spent this day dealing with crowds of people at malls and stores. The traffic for the holiday weekend would have been immense. With rising numbers of COVID-19 cases, plans have been altered. Online shopping has become the focus. Few people went “over the river and through the woods to Grandmother’s house.” Who would have even thought this would be the way of the world even ten months ago? So help us God as we seek to adapt. Help us to manage capably in new ways. And help our businesses! So many are struggling and trying to stay economically in the game. These are people’s livelihoods. So get us through this pandemic quickly – and in the meantime, use us to come alongside small business owners, and gig workers, and those who are self-employed. We pray for restaurant owners, staff and patrons. And barbershops and salons. And gyms. Retail stores and their clerks. We pray for those who manage properties, landscapers, those in construction. And we pray for those who are unemployed that they may find work to provide them a decent and living wage. Help our economy; help our world, O God. Amen. 

Psalm 100 “Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come into his presence with singing. Know that the Lord is God. It is he that made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise. Give thanks to him, bless his name. For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.”

The Good News: God’s faithfulness is past, and present, and future. All generations are in God’s great embrace. Let us remember, and despite physical distancing, give praise that we are never alone. Let us give thanks!

Prayer: Praise be to you, our great God and Savior! Thank you, thank you, thank you! Yes, this is a day set-aside for gratitude, but we pray that that attitude would infuse each day and permeate our very being. The concerns of the world are many and great, yet so are the blessings. Though there are many things we can’t or shouldn’t do today because of this virus, it is still a beautiful world. The bounty is great. First and foremost – thank you for the grace of your presence, loving Lord! You suffered, died on the cross and rose from the dead to give to us the gift (and it’s a gift – no strings attached!) of life. We are grateful. In addition to the gift of abundant and eternal life, you give us companionship. Thank you for family (both human and animal!). For unconditional love, we lift up our hearts in praise. And where those relationships are strained and involve struggle, we pray for healing, help and reconciliation. Thus we also bring thanks for friends – for those who come alongside not because they have to, but because they want to. Thank you, gracious God, for food to eat, air to breathe, shelter from the storm. As we receive your blessings, may we, in turn, be a blessing to others in your name. 

1 Peter 5:7 "Cast all your anxiety on God because God cares for you."

The Good News: To think that the God who created the far-flung galaxies and the tiniest cell is mindful of each one of us --- astonishing and encouraging! God knows you by name and cares for each person – not just generally, but specifically. So it is that God wants to help carry your burdens. Give them to him!

Prayer: O God – we are glad that we can shift our attention for a moment from the election and the pandemic. The election results are stabilizing and the vaccine trials appear hopeful; thank you, thank you, thank you. So today we bring to you prayers that have been in the background of the news, but the foreground of our hearts. We bring our anxieties to you, where winter has come early to our souls. We pray for loved ones dealing with addictions and alcoholism -- being isolated can heighten the temptations. We pray for loved ones with Alzheimer's and dementia – so sad for them who have forgotten so much, and so sad for us as we ache for just a flicker of loving recognition. We pray for loved ones with cancer – what a dread disease and just upends so much. Bring healing! And help us each and all to know, remember and believe that we are more than just a disease or a label which can so often seek to define us. We are your beloved children! So thank you, O Father. Thank you for cradling us, for being there for us, for loving us. Help us in our uncertainties and provide for us reasons for joy and opportunities for hope. For the sake of Jesus – your Son, our Lord. Amen. 

Philippians 4:19 “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”

The Good News: God’s grace is glorious. When we are in need, God meets that need. God will supply what we require. Day by day!

Prayer: Day by day, and with each passing moment, we need your strength, care and provision. As we worry, and as we wonder, and as we weep, we come to you. You have promised to listen – for this we give abiding thanks. So thank you, O God. Thanks for listening. Thanks for not telling us that you are too busy or that you think our requests don’t merit your attention. That you care for us is truly a blessing. Because we have so many needs. We pray for our health; that’s physical health and healing; that’s emotional health as we’re not gathering with all the friends and family we’d like; that’s economic health as we’re never sure that we’ll have enough; that’s mental health as virtual learning and “an abundance of caution” takes its toll; and that’s spiritual health for these are dreary days and dark nights. We want to praise you, but just the daily-ness of this corona-virus and the doom and gloom of the news weigh us down. So transform this day O Lord. Grant us the gift of resting in your arms, and sensing that even though it seems all wrong, it will be all right. Bless us so that we may be a blessing to others in some tangible way this day. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Romans 12:9 "Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good."

The Good News: There is more than enough evil in the world. We are not to participate in extending or even allowing for it. We are to opt out of revenge. God will deal with issues of justice. Our job? Love! With our heart, mind, soul and strength. Hold on!

Prayer: It’s a tough world, Jesus. You know – you lived it too. So much violence and hatred. People are scared and angry. And hurt people hurt people. Yet you call us to break the cycle of mistrust, of bullying, of sin. Help us to reflect your light into the darkness. We want to shine! So strengthen us for service. Give us opportunities for bringing beauty into the world. Let your love flow through what we say and do. In this time when so many are feeling so discouraged, help us be beacons of hope. We come alongside them, and before You, in directed prayer. We pause to lift up those who are feeling like life is hopeless. That is so debilitating – so for those seeking employment, seeking acceptance, seeking health, seeking a relationship, seeking a fresh start, seeking meaning, seeking forgiveness, seeking freedom from addiction, seeking peace… we pause with urgency and intention. Help them! Save us! Break the bonds of evil and usher in a new era of blessing. Ever and always to your glory, O great and gracious God. Amen.

Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

The Good News: God is with us wherever we go. And whenever we “shelter in place.” God is with us morning, noon and night. These are challenging times, but God asks us to be strong and courageous – because we sustained by the victorious Lord of the universe.

Prayer: We are grieving, O God. Not going to all the sporting events and tailgating, or going to the movies, or doing any number of usual Saturday things we might otherwise have been doing. So we waver, going between all the stages of grief: denial; anger; bargaining; depression. Are any really at “acceptance?” That’s a hard one – because we keep praying, and wanting, and expecting that this nightmare will one day end. Sure life may never be “normal” again, but at least some of the cherished activities and opportunities of years past will be restored. So, help us God. Bring that restoration! Yet in the meantime, sustain us in our denial, support us through our anger, be patient with us in our bargaining and lift us from depression. We can’t do this on our own. It’s too much. So, with your might and power bring about a positive change. We need it. We need you. Come to us and to our world that we might be strong and courageous in our living and in our serving. In the name of God – Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen. 

Micah 6:8 “God has showed you what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

The Good News: Are we required to pray in a certain way? Does God reward us according to how many good-deeds we perform? Is there a quota of how many worship services we attend before we can retire? The answer is that our faith isn’t evidenced by those sort of things, but rather by justice, mercy and humility. It’s a life-long journey. But we are always accompanied by our loving Savior.

Prayer: O God – it used to be that the requirements were obvious: we went to school, we went to work, we went to church. We were busy – so busy – going and doing. But for the last nine months we’ve had to slow down. Redirect. Reimagine. Reprioritize. So help us to focus not on accomplishing and achieving as much as to performing small deeds of kindness. Or to think of others more than ourselves. To not claiming our entitled rights as much as to care for the least, the lonely, the lost. So although we fervently pray for an end to this pandemic, thank you for giving us opportunities to remember and acknowledge all that matters most. Thank you for friends (and for those who don’t have friends – provide opportunities for companionship). Thank you for health (and for those who are sick, bring healing.) Thank you for family (and where there is conflict, would that there be forgiveness and reconciliation). Thank you for faith (and where there is doubt or disbelief, touch hearts with the spark of your Holy Spirit.). In the name of Jesus. Amen. 

Colossians 3:12 “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”

The Good News: When we get up each day we are faced with a decision: what to wear. In addition to a literal choice, it’s a metaphorical choice too. As God as chosen us, let us choose today to put on compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. What a wardrobe! You are looking good!

Prayer: Help! Help us, O God. Help our world. The challenges are many as the covid-numbers rise. People continue to debate whether or not to wear masks. People continue to blame China. People argue about the response along political party lines. It’s wearying. Fatigue is real. Tired of the election and the politics. Tired of having plans changed again and again and again. Tired of not knowing what tomorrow brings. Tired of every single moment being focused on what we are or aren’t supposed to do. So – I’m trying to change my attitude, God. Help me raise my compassion quotient. Grant me gentleness. Because fundamentally I am grateful. Thank you for the blessings of living in a free country. Thank you for medical advances. Thank you for the numerous people who work selflessly – in our hospitals, our nursing homes, our prisons, our restaurants, our schools, our churches. Watch over our police officers, EMTS and first aid squads, fire fighters, our military, with your protecting hand. We pray for our farmers and those who labor in the many facets of food production and delivery. We pray for electricians, plumbers, welders, landscapers. We pray for those who deliver our mail and packages – thank you for how we stay connected and shop despite this pandemic. And certainly not least – thank you, O God, for the grace and gift of your Son Jesus – the hope of the world. Amen.

John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that He gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life."

The Good News: This foundational verse of Scripture encapsulates so much. God is present, not absent. God loves, not ignores. God gives, not withholds. Death does not have the last word, God does – and that word is life! We will not fully nor finally die, but rather will know God’s perfect peace along with all those who also love the Lord.

Prayer: Savior God – how we look to you! We are overwhelmed by the ongoing challenges of 2020. Most of the year has been consumed by the election or by the coronavirus. So, in your abiding love – in and through Jesus, bring solutions. These are just single phrases, but they contain our fiercest hopes and our greatest needs. So our Father, bring: economic help to our businesses, perseverance for our health care workers, companionship for the lonely, patience with those whose opinions differ from ours, opportunities for occasions of joy, wisdom for those who lead, cooperation among the nations, courage to live faithfully, healing for the sick, resurrection for the dying, hope for the rest of us, peace for the world. Amen.

Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

The Good News: God promises that there is a season for everything. A time to work and be weary – and a time to be refreshed and to rest. When we are feeling worn out or worn down – come to Jesus, he’ll support you and be a balm for your soul.

Prayer: Bright Morning Star – shine your divine light on us and our world. In these desperate times, what a blessing it is to receive your invitation to not only share our problems, but to hand them over entirely. So, please… light our path and lift our burdens. You know our needs and what makes us toss and turn at night. We pause now to humbly ask you to bring peace to our troubled minds. Revive our tired bodies. Guide our church. Watch over our children. Bless our senior citizens. Protect our first responders. Encourage all essential workers. Feed the hungry. Forgive our sins. Overcome our doubts. Inspire our leaders. Teach your ways. Provide for our needs. Surprise us with Good News. For we give praise and honor and glory to you, O Son of God for already defeating death. Alleluia. Amen. 

Isaiah 40:31 But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.

The Good News: We are weary. But with God we will be strengthened. We are tired, but with God weshall be renewed. The promise is sure. In this marathon of a pandemic, we can continue to run, with the help of God.

Prayer: Guide us O Thou Great Jehovah – we feel adrift. We are planning for Thanksgiving and Christmas, but not in ways we would be doing typically. There are questions: Travel? How many can safely gather? Parties? So we sigh as we realize that we can’t go back to normal when there is no normal to go back to. So help us to find new ways of celebration. As we do that, even with the disappointment, we are grateful for the caution that keeps us healthy. So many in the medical field have worked so selflessly and diligently to battle this coronavirus. Thank you for their dedication and sacrifice. May the day hasten, O God, when we can gather without restrictions. Until then, give us the gift of patience. We are waiting – so renew our strength as you have promised to do. And give an extra measure of strength to all those who work to keep us well: doctors, nurses, swab-takers, EMTs, optometrists, dentists, hygienists, veterinarians, therapists, PAs, technicians, dieticians, pharmacists, psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, chiropractors, radiologists, counselors, researchers, among so many others… In the name of the great Physician, Jesus Christ. Amen. 

Isaiah 41:10 Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

The Good News: God is with us! What an amazing thing. Other faith-traditions have a distant god or an impersonal deity – but as followers of Jesus Christ, we have the opportunity of a relationship. We are connected to God – and God is connected to us, helping and upholding us. Fear not!

Prayer: Dear God – it’s been 244 days since we last could gather in your sanctuary for worship without physical distancing. Even then it was with “air-high-fives” and not touching hymnals and ushers with latex gloves. What does the future hold!? We pray for a vaccine. We pray for the ability to keep our psychological fortitude. We pray for wisdom about how and when fully to reopen church. So many prayers! But we bring them to you for you have promised to uphold us. We’re taking you up on that offer. Strengthen us! Help us! Uphold us! We miss being together – singing together, coffee-houring together, church-schooling together, laughing and praying and weeping together. How quickly the things that we often took for-granted just stopped. For a few months we were resolute – but this is getting very, very tiring. O Lord, we miss hugging and handshakes! Yet in the midst of it all, we are grateful that we have the essentials – we have You. We have prayer. We have not all we want, but all that we need. So, in humility, we simply say, “Thank you.” In gratitude for your over-arching, never-failing, salvation-granting, everlasting love – “thank you, Jesus.” Amen.

Matthew 6:31-32 Don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs.

The Good News: Being human, we are prone to worry. But worrying is like being in a rocking chair – it expends energy, but gets us nowhere. So help us to rest in your provision and providence.

Prayer: O Lord – this is the first “Friday the 13th” since March. So much has changed since then. So much!!!! Our blood pressure goes up and our stress-levels increase as we think about all the deep needs of our world. We worry about our health – who to believe? What should stay open? Or ought we think about re-closing things? We worry about the economy. We worry about climate change. We worry about our finances. We pray for our children. Give us a peace of mind, O God. And even as we do so, we thank you that you send people to support and sustain us. We thank you for the vocations of social workers, therapists, coaches. We thank you for wise friends and supportive neighbors and caring colleagues. Send us a reminder – somehow, someway -- of your presence O God, so that we can rest easier this day and sleep well this night. In the name of Jesus. Amen.

Hebrews 12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.

The Good News: Yes, sin is all around --- entangling us, ensnaring us, tripping us up. Yet the power of Jesus is stronger. And God sends us others to remind us of Jesus when we’re feeling vulnerable. So remember that there are those who are cheering for you from heaven as you run your earthly race!

Prayer: Preserving and Persevering God, thank you for not giving up on us or on our world. With power-struggles here on earth, with wars and rumors of war, with bodily aches and pains, with questions that abound, we do a lot of wondering. What’s going on? Is there some kind of divine message you are trying to send us? When will this pandemic end? How are we supposed to react? Who are we supposed to trust? Well – though there are so many earthly voices clamoring for our ears, we know that ultimately we can trust You. Thank you for that. And thank you for all your people, especially the people who have loved us and now cheer for us from your presence. If we could be so bold – could they/you send a sign of care? A reminder of love? A reassurance in a specific way that all will be okay? Yet we know and confess that you’ve already done that – it’s called a cross. So for the sacrificial love of Jesus, thank you. Thank you for saving us. Thank you for rescuing us from death. Thank you for not leaving us alone. So it is, in gratitude for your love, that we lift up those who need a special measure of that love – the lonely, the left-out, the least. Come, Lord Jesus. Amen.

John 15:13-18 Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you. These things I command you, so that you will love one another.

The Good News: Jesus died sacrificially. Jesus lives victoriously! As those then who have been saved by grace alone, those who have been called the friends of Christ, those who are appointed to bear fruit – let us love one another!

Prayer: O Lord, on this Veteran’s Day we think of The Battle Hymn of the Republic which has a stanza that proclaims, “In the beauty of the lilies, Christ was born across the sea with a glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me. As He died to make men holy, let us live to make men free while God is marching on!” So, O God, march on to bring peace to our world. We remember those who have made ultimate sacrifices on the battlefield and those who actively serve our country through the Army, Navy, Coast Guard, Marines, Air Force, and Space Force. We lift up those in the Reserves and National Guard; we pray for our veterans. We lift up their families asking for your comfort. For the women and men of our military, be their guide, strength and stay; protect them as they protect us. May there be a lessening of conflict and war, and, O God, use this time of world-wide pandemic to unify all peoples in the way of peace. It is a big ask – but you are an even bigger God – so, please: Grant us wisdom, grant us courage for the facing of this hour. Heal our world. In the saving name of Jesus, Amen. 

Acts 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

The Good News: Witnesses are those who testify to the truth of something. What a privilege is ours that we get to (in word and deed) speak of the truth of God’s over-arching presence and eternal love. Let us be bold in our witness!

Prayer: Precious Savior, sometimes we hold back from doing all we could and should to make this a better world. We confess that failing. Yet we want to do better. To be better. So, help us to accept that you cherish us, claim us, call us, and commission us – just as we are – for the upbuilding of your Kingdom. So thank you for making me exactly how you did. Sure – there are things I would change, yet in your wisdom, you’ve given aptitudes and abilities to match what is needed in this world. So now, I’m praying for the opportunity to make a difference. Despite all that is going on in the world, may I, in my small sphere of influence, testify to your amazing grace and unconditional love, O God. May my words be clear in compassion and may my actions glorify your Name. So strengthen me, support me, sustain me. In response to your forgiveness, may I forgive. In response to your loving me, may I seek to love others generously. May thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Amen. 

Genesis 8:22 As long as the earth remains, there will be planting and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night.

The Good News: To everything there is a season. In this season of leading into Thanksgiving we abide in the knowledge that God’s promise is that we shall endure. There are storms and pandemics and turmoil, but God will not fail nor forsake us. Thanks be to God!

Prayer: O God – you whose love for us never changes, we live in a world of change. A time to be born and a time to die. A time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing. In this time of “refraining from embracing” we humbly ask for you to come closer and enfold us with your comfort. We seek peace, not chaos. We need healing, not and more cases of COVID. We desire harmony, not discord. So help use be promoters of harmony, blending our voices with others in creating beauty and blessing. We are grateful for those who work at creating channels of conversation in a world where dissonance is often prevalent. May we be in a season of listening and not yelling. May we be in a season of respect that says “just because others think differently doesn’t automatically make them wrong.” Come, Holy Spirit to illuminate and guide. May this be a season of faith and faithfulness! Amen. 

1 Peter 5:7 Cast all your anxiety on God because God cares for you.

The Good News: Did you catch the word “all?” Not only can we bring all our anxieties to God, we must do so. God instructs and invites us to give him everything that keeps us tossing and turning at night and distracted and disturbed during the day. Let God carry your cares and woes, he’s more capable than we are in dealing with them.

Prayer: From the hymn by John Greenleaf Whittier, “Dear Lord and Father of Mankind”

Dear Lord and Father of mankind,

Forgive our foolish ways!

Reclothe us in our rightful mind,

In purer lives Thy service find,

In deeper reverence, praise.

Drop Thy still dews of quietness,

Till all our strivings cease;

Take from our souls the strain and stress,

And let our ordered lives confess

The beauty of Thy peace. Amen. 

Isaiah 41:10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

The Good News: Have you ever been knocked down – either physically or emotionally? That happens, and most often through no fault of our own. But, thanks be to God, we are given a hand up. Jesus comes to strengthen us and help us. God is not some remote abstract being, but rather personally involved and wanting to assist us – 24/7.

Prayer: O dear God (can you sense the pleading in those words?...) we need help. We need you. More cases of Covid-19? It seems as if no place is safe. So even though you instruct us not to be dismayed, we are. Is that okay? Are you disappointed by our weakness? We hope not because we are trying to keep on keeping on with a positive attitude. So strengthen our resolve. Give us reasons to celebrate and cheer. So, claiming your promise of being with us, we turn towards practicing “an attitude of gratitude.” So…! Thank you! For today (remember when we lightly said TGIF?). For homes with heat (and for the opportunity to assist those who don’t.) For doctors and nurses and pharmacists. For those who staff our nursing homes and rehabilitation centers. For teachers. For churches. For anniversaries and birthdays. For a night of rest and a day of opportunity. For the grace of your abiding presence Jesus – you who are the Savior of All and the King of kings and Lord of lords. Bring peace to our world and to our souls. Humbly we pray, Amen. 

Hebrews 12:2 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

The Good News: There are such depths of worldly challenge. And it’s easy to fix our eyes on the problems. Or on all that we can’t do (like the Election Day Events or travel during teacher convention break). Retrain your gaze. Jesus suffered much, endured much, but now is victorious. So, in his name, shall we be!

Prayer: O God – we’re tired of this. Tired of sheltering in place. Tired of the news. Tired of not knowing how long all this will go on. We’ve been trying to make the best of it, but sometimes it feels like we’re close to breaking. And now with sunset at 4:48 pm today it just reinforces how we are feeling like everything is trending towards dreariness. Would you help revive our spirits O God? We know that Jesus suffered even more – but we’re not at strong or faithful. So please restore some joy. Give us strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow. And as we pray that for ourselves, we pause to pray for others. There are people with covid and cancer – heal them. There are people with addictions and anxiety – cut through their issues to provide a better way. There are those seeking employment and worried about money – give opportunities for work and ways to meet their stress. We pray for our children and grandchildren – may the future provide blessings and health and happiness for them. Guide us in living faithfully and to your glory, O God. Amen.

Philippians 4:8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

The Good News: We think about a lot of things – and many of them produce anxiety and fear and deep concern. So much is unsettled. But God will set all things right – so let that permeate and take hold of our thoughts. Focus on the positives and the truth of God and all that is praiseworthy. God reigns.

Prayer: We come to you in prayer, O God. In a world where what is promoted are things that aren’t noble. Things that are wrong. Things that discourage and debilitate. So help us this day to focus rather on the things of faith. Your ways are higher than our ways. Your purposes greater than our purposes. Your love stronger than anything here on earth. Your peace is not temporal, but eternal. So thank you for the amazing grace given through Jesus. Though there are many trials, toils and snares, God is working for our salvation. So we think about such things… lifting up to you lovely and admirable things – like beautiful autumn leaves, the selflessness of pets, the cup of cold water, the opportunity for a hot shower, the endorphins of exercise, the harmony of music, a well-told story, the laughter of children… We thank you for friends. For family. For faith. Heal our bodies and help our world. In the name of our Savior Jesus, Amen. 

1 Corinthians 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brothers and sisters, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.

The Good News: This verse hangs in the kitchen on Election Day, reminding us that – on that day – and every day -- in fellowship, in worship, in ministry, in service – when we do the work of the Lord, what we do matters – even in, or especially in, a time of crisis like these present days.

Prayer: Holy, holy, holy God – this is a day fraught with concern. No matter electoral outcomes – which may or may not be definitive – there is the real possibility of violence, of disputed results, of challenge. What has happened to us and to our country? So please, O Lord, speak to our need. Promote peace. Heal any unhappy divisions.

As we miss our Election Day Events, keep our congregation strong and faithful. May we yet be those who reflect what it means to give, to care, to serve. Even amid the challenges of pandemic, we think of those who cook delicious meals, serve coffee and tea, make gravy and coleslaw and mashed potatoes, wait on hungry guests, and create quilts and bake cakes and can jelly, and craft items for the delight of others. So we pray for wait-staff at restaurants, and clerks at shops, and those who stock shelves and check-out customers at grocery stores. We pray for farmers. And we pray for ourselves. Help us, O God. How we need you. In the name of, and for the sake of Jesus. Amen. 

Revelation 22:1-2 “Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.”

The Good News: The time is promised when there will be no more war, negative-election-ads, border-disputes, anymore. The healing of the nations! Yes! That harmony of you, O God, with all of creation and You with us and us with You. “Love one another” will not be a command, but a statement of reality. All will be made right. Come, Lord Jesus.

Prayer: Great and gracious God – we long for the time when your promised peace is a full reality. What are you waiting for? I know that you long for more and more people to come to the saving knowledge of your Son – that you want no one to miss out -- but it just seems like the longer we wait the further from peace we get. Yet our ways are not your ways, and frankly I’m glad not to be in charge of the universe, so I will trust in your grace and rest in the knowledge that, in the right time, in the right way, you will heal all diseases, wipe away all tears and usher in your Kingdom. As we await for that, we give thanks for those who give us a glimpse of what is yet to be – healers, artists, philanthropists, teachers, grandparents, kindness-doers, and peace-proclaimers. Enable us, in some specific way, to bear witness to the Good News of Jesus. Love wins! Alleluia. Amen. 

Deuteronomy 31:6 "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you."

The Good News: From an anonymous author: “Last night I had a dream. I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord. Across the sky flashed scenes from my life. For each scene, I noticed two sets of footprints in the sand: one belonged to me, the other to the Lord. After the last scene of my life flashed before me, I looked back at the footprints in the sand. I noticed that at many times along the path of my life, especially at the very lowest and saddest times, there was only one set of footprints. This really troubled me, so I asked the Lord about it. "Lord, you said once I decided to follow you, You'd walk with me all the way. But I noticed that during the saddest and most troublesome times of my life, there was only one set of footprints. I don't understand why, when I needed You the most, You would leave me." The Lord replied, "My son, my precious child, I love you and I would never leave you. During your times of suffering, when you could see only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you."

Prayer: Carry me, Heavenly Father. Cradle me, Jesus. Comfort me, Holy Spirit. Carry me, Heavenly Father. Cradle me, Jesus. Comfort me, Holy Spirit. Carry me, Heavenly Father. Cradle me, Jesus. Comfort me, Holy Spirit. Amen. 

2 Thessalonians 3:3 "But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one."

The Good News: Evil is pervasive. But God is stronger yet. Do not be discouraged. We know how the story ends! God is victorious. Stay the course!

Prayer: Gracious God – We don’t talk a lot about the Evil One. But there is so much wrong in our world – how else to account for the disease and distrust? So please, (please, please, please) counteract all that is destructive and darkness with your healing light. Restore a sense of what you intended from the beginning when you looked at creation and said, “it is good.” You have combated the powers of evil through the victory of the cross. Death has been defeated. So make that truth hold sway in our world today. Come, Lord Jesus to be with us, above us to protect, beside us to defend, beneath us to support. Strengthen our bodies and encourage our spirits. Wipe tears from our eyes and ease the pains that persist. We hope in you because you are faithful! Not “might be faithful” or “were faithful” – but “the Lord is faithful.” Claiming this present truth, we are grateful. We give thanks that so many volunteer to making this a better world. We give thanks that you provide friends to come alongside. We give thanks for the grace of the presence of your Son, Our Lord, Jesus. Dwell with us and protect us, humbly we pray. Amen. 

Psalm 5:11 "But let all you take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you."

The Good News: We have safety and security in and through Jesus. When we are worried, we have a place of refuge and protection. Hold fast to that truth and rejoice.

Prayer: O Lord – joy seems elusive. Right now the news cycles are about increased covid-19 cases and the election. Some days I just want to tune it all out. I know it’s not right to bury my head in the sand, but I do need refuge -- a safe place that gives space for hope to flourish. So come Lord – come and put that protection over me and those I love. Keep the virus at bay. Keep spirits from deflating. Remind me of your presence in a way that I can know and feel. Perhaps I’m not supposed to need those reminders – but these days they should are helpful. So send a sign of your love. And as you do that -- use me to be that kind of sign for others. Keep me in mind to be an agent of care, kindness, love, reconciliation, beauty and blessing. Let me reflect the joy of Jesus in what I do and say this day. Amen! 

1 John 4:8–9 "Whoever does not love does not know God, for God is love. God’s love was revealed among us in this way: God sent his only Son into the world so that we might live through him."

The Good News: It’s so simple, but contains the most amazing and complex and salvation-providing truth ever: God is love! Accept that gift and be at peace!

Prayer: O Lord, our Lord – we’ve had to adapt. And, surprise of surprises, we’ve managed to do some pretty creative things – online worship, zoom happy hours, choir collaborations, drive-by parties, virtual vacations, learning new skills. But now we’re moving from adaptation to innovation. How are we going to live ongoingly like this? That’s a challenge – so we come to you, O Lord. We’re leaning hard into your wisdom to show us how we can sing your song in this foreign land. May this become an opportunity for your Word to take root in ways that weren’t imaginable even last year. So thank you for families worshiping together, reading the Bible together, praying together. Thank you for the slower pace that provides times for big discussions about good and evil, about ethics, about purposefulness, about privilege, about responsibility. Thank you for neighbors getting to know each other. And most especially, thank you for your love. Jesus – you are our rock, and upon you we anchor ourselves, our families, our church, our society, our world. So in our ever-changing world, thank you for your saving love which never changes. Strengthen us, we pray. In Christ, our living Lord and Savior’s name, Amen.

Luke 24:1–3 "But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they came to the tomb, taking the spices that they had prepared. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in, they did not find the body."

The Good News: Though the celebration of Easter is a half-year away, every day is resurrection day! The Lord is risen! Death will be no more. Abide in the promise of Good News!

Prayer: Alleluia! All praise to you O God! With your grace, by your power and to your glory, you raised Jesus from the dead. And now, in Christ, all those who die will be raised to new life. Eternal life! I scarce can take in the joy that awaits! O God – how great thou art! So, despite the pain and problems of this world, we know that they will only have their moment. They do not – cannot – will not – last. What lasts is life in your name. Love wins! How we long for that day when all shall be set right. So we live in gratitude. We are thankful… for this day; for the beauty of all nature; for people who love us; for all that we can yet do. We thank you for technology that enables connections. We thank you for medical advances that promote healing. We thank you for people who selflessly pursue vocations of service. Thank you for your Son, our Lord, Jesus. Abiding in his love, we lift up prayers for others: for those who are feeling lost, lonely, and least. For those who are chosen last. For those seeking employment. For those trying to break the stranglehold of addiction. For those who have relationships that are hard. For those who are ill and dying. Grant us peace. Amen. 

Psalm 34:17–18 "When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears, and rescues them from all their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and saves the crushed in spirit."

The Good News: God stands with the broken hearted, the dispirited, the troubled. You are never alone.

Prayer: These are unsettled times, O God. We seek relief from problems that beset us, guidance for challenges that could undermine us, encouragement despite the troubles that pile up, patience with the situations we cannot change, and salvation from all that would crush our spirits. So needing you – we come in prayer. Hear our words, but also hear our unspoken needs. You know our hearts. Where we are most scared and anxious and worried. Bring the calm of your Holy Spirit to dwell in our hearts. Healing, help and hope – we need these, and more! We pray for our country as we seek “liberty and justice for all.” We pray for our church as we seek to live and love like Jesus. We pray for our families as we seek comfort and care. We pray for our world as we seek peace. Come, Lord Jesus! Amen. 

Psalm 62:6: “God only is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken.”

The Good News: So much of life shifts and changes. The one thing that doesn’t – and can’t – change is the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. It’s God-guaranteed through the death and resurrection of Jesus.

Prayer: What a friend we have in Jesus – all our sins and griefs to bear! There are things we’ve done which we ought not to have done. There are things we’ve neglected to do which we ought to have done. Even though we regularly miss the mark, God loves us. Forgive us. And encourages us to do better next time. And so O God – help me to do better. Help me to extend care to those I might otherwise ignore, to say “I’m sorry” to someone I hurt, to listen attentively, to give more generously, to give the benefit of the doubt. After all – God, you love me in spite of myself, so help me to do the same for others. What freedom is found in forgiveness. Thus, I turn my emotional scrapes and scars over to you Jesus. And in doing so I’m opting today to seek those things that promote kindness, extend mercy, encourage hope, and provide for peace. Thank you for friends, for makers of music, beauty and joy. Thank you God for this life you’ve given. It’s not always easy, but it is always good. Praise, thanksgiving and honor to you – Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen. 

Psalm 100: 4–5 "Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise. Give thanks to him, bless his name. For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations."

The Good News: Trace how the handprint of God has touched your life in the past – and give thanks for how God is – and has been – and will be -- at work for your blessing. Even in hard times, God is faithful. Grateful. Thankful. Blessed!

Prayer: Gracious and Giving God – how we pray for an end to this pandemic. How we pray for an end to bitter divisions in our nation. These are consuming prayers – as they ought to be. But we also look back and remember and give thanks. Those living in the dark days of World War II, enduring sacrifice and blackouts and rationing and worry – and an uncertain end to the war, looked to you; and as we look back we give thanks that evil was defeated. Yes – a great cost of lives and the genocide of Jews, which we grieve. Yet you walked us through that valley of the shadow of death. We are asking for that once again in our generation. We are fighting a microscopic enemy that has threatened our very way of life. Grant us victory, we humbly pray! And so we pray for those engaged in fights for freedom and health – our military, our doctors and nurses, our emergency responders, our front-line essential workers. Guide their work, protect their health and well-being, bless them in their vocations, give them success. With gratitude for those who sacrifice so that we might have life. Thank you for Jesus, who laid down his life so that we never be defeated. Amen. 

Romans 5:4–5 "And endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us."

The Good News: Be anchored by hope – and do not lose heart. As we endure, we are strengthened. And all praise to God – we are not alone. We have God’s love – the best gift of all gifts!

Prayer: O God – O God – O God – we come to you with somewhat desperate pleas. The Covid-19 diagnoses are the highest since July. Really? Can we not be done with this? And yet we also hear that one of the greatest threat now is “covid-fatigue.” Which we understand. We’re just tired of it. Tired of the anxiousness. Tired of the numbers reported on the news. Tired of living with “an abundance of caution.” Tired of canceling plans. Tired of not hugging and being hugged back. We thought that “sheltering at home” would be a necessary but relatively short thing. And while it’s still necessary, it’s been so long. And with no end in sight. That’s some of the problem, O God. If we knew when this would end, we could hang on better. But we don’t. And so help us. Grant us patience. Perseverance. Reliance on your perspective. And bring health and healing to us and to our world. These are the real and deep cries of our heart, O Lord. Help! Amen. 

2 Timothy 1:6-7 "For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control."

The Good News: God’s Spirit is full of love, joy, peace, kindness, and goodness. And more! So though we experience earth-bound fear, the presence of God will vanquish fear. Let us live with the burning blessings of God!

Prayer: Good and gracious God – we ask for your blessings to abide generation to generation. So we pray for those of wisdom-earned years – keep them from frailty and fear, and give them strength and hope and purpose. We pray for those who are leading and working and providing. Give opportunities to labor with creativity, fulfillment and blessing. In these uncertain times so many are wondering about the future of their business or the longevity of their employment. Help, O God! We pray for our college and high school-aged generation; thank you that they have enabled so many others to deal effectively with new technologies. Yet we pray for them as they are trying to figure out on-line learning, dating in the time of covid, and how to yet experience internships and recitals and sports seasons. We pray for our younger generation as a growing percentage of their life is spent masked and distanced. Support them – and the teachers and parents that are educating in new ways. Guide us into a future that will be different, and yet, we pray, good. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Romans 5: 1-2 “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.”

The Good News: Faith! Peace! Grace! Rejoice! Hope! Glory! What a great bit of God’s Word. Through our relationships with Jesus, we can stand on the everlasting, life-giving promises of God.

Prayer: God of grace and glory – these are critical times. So many are sick – whether coronavirus or cancer or any number of diseases. And so many are out of work, so many are running thin on patience, so many are anxious about, not only next week, but the holidays. So guide those who are making critical decisions about how and when to keep reopening business and society in general. For business leaders making difficult decisions that affect the lives of their employees: God, give wisdom. We need you O God! Provide a future that is marked by opportunities to serve and praise and work and play and laugh and cry and sing and share – together! Though the challenges are many, we bring our petitions to you, who is mightier than a virus. We humbly ask you to open us possibilities of something great. Reveal that to us. May more and more people recognize that you – Wonderful Counselor -- are needed and necessary – and the way to life that is both abundant and eternal. Thank you for your Amazing Grace that has brought us safe thus far, and that grace that will lead us home. We pray in the name of our Precious Savior, Jesus. Amen.

Romans 12: 17-18 “Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.”

The Good News: Life is filled with challenges – one of those is to rise above the desire for retribution. We can’t do that without the power of God at work within us. Let us seek to live honorably and peacefully.

Prayer: O God – help us to live honorably. You have set an example of non-violence, of love that dispels fear, of a better way forward. So O Prince of Peace, guide people so that there may be a wave of compassion and generosity of spirit that has been too sadly absent of late. Help people (and help me, O Lord!) to listen caringly, to speak compassionately, and to love unreservedly. But love is not always returned and hatred is embedded deep into the psyche of some. All the more reason to come to you -- for you, O God, are the only hope for this world. No legislation nor ruling nor political posturing will be able to unite us in peace. Only you. So do a miraculous work of softening hearts and upbuilding lives. We pray for a future where wars will cease, all people be valued, tears wiped away, disease vanquished, hate dispelled, addictions broken, and fear diminished completely. So, come in power and might, O God. And until that day of glory, help us so to live as to be examples of beauty and blessing, care and compassion, faith and fortitude. In the name of Jesus, Amen. 

Joel 2:28, 32 “I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions… And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

The Good News: God’s grace is amazing; God’s salvation is for all. It’s not about what we do (or don’t do) but about what God has done for us in Jesus Christ. Alleluia! Thanks be to God!

Prayer: What a day of beauty and blessing! All we have needed, thy hand has provided – so thank you for your faithfulness. Thank you for parents, partners, and children! For friends! For the grace of your presence, O Lord and Savior. You have been with us in the past – and so we entrust our future to your providence. Yet these past months have been challenging – to say the least! It’s now been seven months (and counting…) since we worshiped together with singing in the sanctuary. This Sunday with be the 31st Sunday of “virtual church.” How much longer? Though we long for reconnections and reunions, we pause in gratitude for our congregation. We pause in prayer for our community… our country… our world. There is so much for which we can yet be thankful. We are grateful for our first responders, our military, our emergency service personnel, our essential workers. So many work selflessly for the welfare of others. And we lift up praise for the promised Good News that “everyone who calls on your name, O Lord, will be saved.” So, for your wide embrace of love, for your promise of life, for the inclusive welcome your provide: thank you. Claiming the presence of the Holy Spirit, Amen! 

Luke 1:78-79 “Because of the tender mercy of our God, whereby the sunrise shall visit us from on high, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.”

The Good News: Even in difficult times, and even when we encounter the shadow of death, light and eternal life are the gifts of our gracious God. Hold on – and ask God to guide you.

Prayer: Precious Lord, Author of perfect mercy, praise be to you for the gift of this day. Thank you for the companionship of your Son who came to earth so that we could be and would be saved everlastingly. So for being light in our darkness and a guide for our path, thank you. Believing that your way is the way of health, healing and peace, we come with prayers on behalf of others. These are anxious times – so we pray for those who feel up-ended by uncertainty. We pray for those who are adrift from hope – be their anchor! We pray for those who have opted out of prayer. For them we pray – for those who cannot find the words or will not risk coming to you for fear of one more disappointment. Answer us! I guess we’re not supposed to be so demanding, but O Lord – yet just think of the joy that positively answered prayer would provide. So… please. Please. Please. We are bold in our requests because our needs are so great. Peace for our world. Healing for our bodies. Rest for the weary. Contentment for our souls. In the name of Jesus. Amen. 

Psalm 4:8 “In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.”

The Good News: When we rise, and when we sleep, God is watching and holding us close.

Prayer: O Lord – sigh… I know that prayers usually start with praises or words of gratitude – and yes, those are in my heart – but today my prayers almost can’t be formed by words. Just sighs. The weather… the state of our nation… and upticks in coronavirus cases. Just when it seemed like maybe we’ll pull through before too much longer, it’s more caution, more concern, more sighs. And its not that I don’t want to be safe or certainly don’t want to compromise the safety of others; that’s a primary concern. It’s just that these are days when I’d like to take a nap! – of as the scripture puts it: “lie down and sleep.” Yet even with my concerns, I am reminded that you “make me dwell in safety.” So I’ll conclude where sometimes my prayers begin: with a “thank you.” Thank you all-present, all-loving, all-giving God – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – for hearing my sighs, for embracing me when I feel lonely and supporting me and everyone when so much is uncertain. What a relief to know that you are in charge and that safety and blessing and healing and hope and eternal life are what are ultimately in store for us. With gratitude, loving God – Amen! 

Psalm 91:4 “He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.”

The Good News: We are living in challenging times – but we have a refuge! We are protected by the all-encompassing blessing of God. We may not always recognize what’s going on – but remember and know: God’s provision and perspective are steadfast and strong!

Prayer: We pray for those who are vulnerable and sick, whether that be in mind, body or spirit. Sustain them; help them. Contain the spread of infection. We pray for a vaccine – so guide our scientists and epidemiologists and researchers. We lift up in prayer those who create, provide and administer COVID-19 tests. May more and more people benefit and be kept safe. We pray for those who work in our hospitals and care centers – give strength, courage and physical protection. Also, we pray -- give compassion and wisdom to our local, state and federal governmental representatives as they allocate resources. For God, we trust that you are good and do good. Help us to be faithful. Help us to live and love like Jesus. We glorify his name in what we say and what we do. Equip us to magnify your grace, your love, your commandments, your salvation. Give us peace on earth! In the name above all names, Jesus Christ, Amen. 

1 John 4:19-20 “We love because he first loved us. Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen.”

The Good News: God is love. Simple and true. Love doesn’t originate with us, but with God. So we are compelled to respond in a like manner. Love God by loving God’s people!

Prayer: Precious Lord, we’re trying! Trying to manage. Trying to be patient. Trying to find a positive spin in the midst of the pandemic and partisanship. But the covid numbers persist and the incivility (which is a bi-partisan activity) is beyond disheartening. What is going on? People are inciting hate, disruption and division. And it seems, O God, that you are impassive. Don’t you care? Please – send a cure for this virus. And send a cure for the anger and animosity that is pervasive. It’s scary – because what will happen if the rage gets even worse? We wonder and shudder. But we also know that you are bigger and greater and more powerful than anything here on earth. So may your Kingdom come! On earth as it is in heaven. Thus we pray for, and wait expectantly and faithfully for, that Kingdom of justice and joy, of healing and hope, of beauty and blessing, of your power, presence and peace. Do not delay! Come, Lord Jesus. Amen.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

The Good News: We have bad days, but we also have good days. God accepts us as we are and the attitudes we carry. Yet we are called to remember that God is always near and always at work. So even challenging times are times for which we are called to return thanks.

Prayer: O Lord, our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth! Thank you for your church and the many and varied ways you use it to bring light into the world. We thank you for missionaries and chaplains and those who staff our church. But your peoples’ faith is lived our vocationally and relationally in so many callings! So thank you for those who serve you in industry and invention; those who work in the areas of commerce, finance, and law; those who are musicians and actors and poets and playwrights and photographers; those who are farmers and chefs and work at our restaurants and grocery stores; those engaged in medicine, research and the healing arts; those whose calling is in public safety – military and first responders; those who are teachers. We pray for the numerous people who volunteer as an expression of their Christian faith – thank you and may you, O God bless them mightily! So work through all people, O Holy Spirit, and revitalize this, our precious world. We need your blessing! Amen.

Matthew 28:19-20 “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

The Good News: God is with us – all throughout our life. And even to life beyond this life! God is present and will bring about his Kingdom. Our job? – observing the commandments: Honor God and love God’s people. God will never fail nor forsake us!

Prayer: Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask thee to stay, close by me forever, and love me I pray. Bless all the dear children in thy tender care and take us to Heaven to live with Thee there. These verses of “Away in the Manger” are so tender. How I so want to sing them aloud with a full congregation! I long for that time. But until then, the sentiment stays. Bless your children. And yes – that means all of us, but in particular this day, we pray for the youngest members of our church and community. For families who have recently welcomed a baby – bless them with hope and joy. For those in preschool and day care – bless them with occasions of emerging friendship and engagement. (We pray for our church’s nursery school!) For those in elementary, middle and high school – bless them with your safe keeping and blessing. Give them knowledge, social interactions that upbuild, and opportunities for arts, sports and service. We pray for our college students – provide a skill base and a clarity of purpose – and opportunities to put all that they’ve learned and studied to good use. We look to the future – and are grateful for the abilities, interests and aptitudes of our young people. May they forge ways of faith, healing and global peace. With all praise to you, O God who loves us beyond all our imagining, Amen.

Matthew 5:16 “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

The Good News: We receive light because it reflects onto us from God! Then we reflect it, mirror-like, onto others. God is glorified when we live and love like Jesus.

Prayer: Dear God – I know it would be easy to grumble – there’s been plenty of that going on, but I’m trying today to be the face of positivity. So help me with that. Those I encounter can’t see my smile behind the mask, so provide other avenues for spreading joy. I’m grateful for how others have done that for me – making music; recommendations of a good TV show; an invitation to lunch; sharing the garden’s bounty; a text that just says, “thinking of you today.” So it is that I also want to reflect back to you, God of abundance and beauty, my gratitude for your creation – the stars, the autumn leaves, the ocean, apples and pumpkins! And my gratitude for your creatures – for pets to love, and the geese flying south in their awesome v-formations, and the people with whom we work, play and love. And thanks for the gift of your Son Jesus. My heart can scarce take in the happiness that eternal life is ours, that you will never forsake us, that even death is not the end, and that a glad reunion awaits as together we claim the Kingdom of peace. Praise, honor, glory and our alleluias be unto you, God – Father, Son and Holy Spirit, now and always. Amen. 

Hebrews 6:10 “God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.”

The Good News: We are the hands and feet of Jesus, commissioned to carry love into this world. This is so important and necessary. Extend care to the “least of these” – God sees, recognizes and remembers!

Prayer: There are so many vulnerable people in our world, O God. So many who need love, support, care, prayer. So we seek to be people of compassion and care. Reveal unto us how we can make a difference – and to give us the wherewithal then to do it! We pray for, among others --- those on the autism spectrum and their families… the frail elderly… babies in the neo-natal unit… those with cancer… refugees… those seeking employment… those for whom this pandemic has wreaked havoc emotionally, financially, physically, spiritually. We pray for those who feel they don’t know how to pray or don’t believe that if they did that it would make any difference. So, great God, be a difference maker! Show the world that you are involved, real and present! Activate hope. Dispel animosity. Heal our world. O God – do not delay. With gratitude and anticipation we pray in the name of Jesus. Amen. 

Isaiah 43:19 “Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”

The Good News: God is faithful. God has been with us in the past and God is with us in a future which we cannot begin to know. Yet God knows! And God provides. Let us open our hearts!

Prayer: Zoom meetings! On-line worship! Virtual community! Hybrid learning! Professional sports without spectators! O Lord, we feel like strangers in a strange land. Is this what our children and grandchildren will think of as normative? Yikes! (That’s perhaps a bizarre word to put in a prayer, O God, but so much is bizarre these days.) But as we adapted to a world of microwaves and cell phones and security checks at airports – we’ll figure this new world out too. Just help us. It’s not easy to navigate new protocols and negotiate how to shop/worship/learn/celebrate/mourn in new ways. So in some ways, we’re grieving. We’ve lost so much, especially traditions. So as we re-imagine Halloween, and Thanksgiving, and Christmas celebration, as we refigure birthdays, weddings and reunions, help us. We’re sad that we can’t do things “the old way” but even still, trying to be thankful that there is much that we can do – just in new ways. So grant a perspective of blessing and an outlook of opportunity. Reset our world so that your beauty, peace and love might flourish. In the name of, and through the grace of Jesus. Amen. 

Proverbs 27:9 “Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice.”

The Good News: It is not good for us to be alone. We were created for community. The church is a place to remedy the brokenness of the world through friendship and support.

Prayer: God of grace and God of glory, how you have blessed us with friends! In a world that is so fragmented, there are yet so many who touch our lives with kindness, with prayer, with a listening ear and a supportive heart. Even when we can’t always be face-to-face and though we have smiles that are masked, there are those relationships that sustain us. Thank you for friends, new and old – and we pause to call them to mind now... And as we have friends, let us provide that to others. O God, provide opportunities for us to express support, to laugh, to cry, to care, to just “be there.” So, thank you, loving Lord, for being there for us. How we need your calm in the midst of chaos, the balm of your blessing when we come up against bullies. Yet, not being able to see you or touch you Lord – come to us in other ways so we can be encouraged. These are tough times of isolation. We’re weary and worn out. Bring us strength for the journey and patience for these hard times. Yet again, thanks for not leaving us alone. So for friends, for care givers, for even those strangers who pause to wish us a “good day” we are grateful. Seeking to reflect that attitude of gratitude in the name of Jesus, Amen.

Isaiah 41:10 “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

The Good News: Let us cling to the promise that God is with us. We are not forgotten nor forsaken. We don’t always sense it, but God will persevere. Hang on!

Prayer: O God of yesterday, today and forever – how we need you. How our world needs you! Life is so fragile. There are times of unutterable joy. But then also broken dreams. And broken hearts. And broken bodies. Help us in these broken times, knowing, believing and remembering that you will repair it all. There will be a time when all will be made right – and the blind shall see and the lame will walk and the orphan will have a home. Tears will be turned to triumph. Justice and blessing and peace will be the hallmarks of society. But, O Lord – that’s not now, not yet. So help us in the “mean time.” What an apt phrase. Grant unto those in need, a way to move forward. Grant unto those in leadership, wisdom and compassion. Grant support to those who are fragile. Grant encouragement to our children and their families. Grant peace to the dying. Grant faith to us all. Support us, sustain us, save us – Lord Jesus. For we pray in your holy name. Amen.

Ephesians 3:16 “I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being.”

The Good News: When praying for strength, remember that there are others who also need it. Pray for them and be selfless with God’s love.

Prayer: O God, whose mercy is ever faithful and whose peace is promised, please be our guide and guard. Even as the sun rises and sets, even as the tides ebb and flow, even as the leave change from green to a blaze of autumn beauty, we need some constancy in the middle of all the chaos that consumes our world. These are challenging times! Yet when we are weak, you are powerful. When we are struggling, you give strength. So, despite our doubts (and they are real and deep as we look around at the problems raised by the pandemic, by politics, by personal torments) – despite our doubts, please provide a glimpse of your presence. As we seek that, help us to be attentive to the needs of others as we pray. Provide boulevards of blessings and roads of reassurance to those who are lonely, lacking, loveless, last. May we be agents of your care even to “the least of these…” Come, Lord Jesus. Amen. 

Isaiah 12:2 “Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord Himself, is my strength and my defense; He has become my salvation.”

The Good News: It sounds easy to just trust, to not be afraid. That’s not the case. Yet as we, day by day, seek the Lord, more and more do we find the strength to endure. Don’t look too far into the future – just seek to trust for today!

Prayer: Good and Gracious God – help us to see thee more clearly, love thee more dearly and follow thee more nearly, day by day. As we do that, we pray for ourselves and for our families – please protect and shield them from harm. We pray for ourselves – that we could grow in faith and in doing that, to be a blessing to others. Use me for your glory, God! And we pray for others – for our essential workers. Our emergency responders... Our military and their families... We pray your strength and health for doctors, nurses, social workers, dentists, opticians, veterinarians, pharmacists, and therapists… We pray for our missionaries and those who work in our churches… Bring increased faith to our world, we humbly pray. Help us, heal us, grant us hope in the name of Jesus. Amen. 

Ephesians 6:10 “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.”

The Good News: God is our source of strength. Call out to Him in your moments of weakness and let His power carry you through life’s difficult moments.

Prayer: O Lord – how the world is facing challenges. And we are caught up in the chaos. We need you – and now. We know the scriptures about being strong and trusting in you, but these are time when we seek not just your Word, but your action. Each day the news headlines seem to be about conflict. Politics is about pitting one group against another. Even the weather is groaning. How did things get so bad? And so, come to us Lord. Heal our world. Physically we ask for you to halt this coronavirus (and all diseases as we still yet contend with cancer and heart disease). Emotionally, bring peace to our souls. Socially, heal unhappy divisions. Sorry Lord that this is a downer of a prayer – but life is sometimes pretty desperate. So to try to refocus, we pause to remember that you’ve been with us in the past and so will be with us in the future. We remember that Jesus suffered and died, but rose victorious from the grave. We are resurrection people. So bring life and love to us, and please, don’t delay. Thank you for being the light in the midst of the darkness. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Luke 2:13-14 “And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth, peace among those whom he favors!”

The Good News: Although the Halloween decorations are up, and we still need to get through Election Day and celebrate Thanksgiving, it’s never out-of-season to hear the nativity message of the angels – Glory! Peace! Three months… Come, Lord Jesus!

Prayer: O holy child of Bethlehem, help us to pause and give thanks for this season and this day, even as we are glad to think of (someday!) moving beyond COVID-19. Grant peace to our world. There is so much anger, sadness, violence and deception going on. We cannot solve it on our own. We need you to come, miraculously, to restore harmony to all the earth. Prod all leaders and nations to care for creation, to set aside pride and prejudice, to seek Your guidance in all manner of things. May your Kingdom on earth as it is in heaven. Free us to give, to share, to receive, to rejoice, to labor, to love, to hear the great glad tidings of angels all around. O come to us, abide with us, our Lord Emmanuel. Amen.

Romans 5:4–5 "And endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us."

The Good News: Do not lose heart. Practice endurance. Wait patiently for the Holy Spirit and the strengthening love of God.

Prayer: Precious Lord, we need you. We need the miracle of your presence and the miracle of stopping this pandemic. Life is murky and we seek clarity. Help! We’ve been praying for months now about this. Please don’t be distant nor silent. Trusting that you are neither, we pray especially for those who are in places where it is hard to stop in for a visit: nursing homes, hospitals, rehab centers, detox facilities and jails. Be with those who work in these places. Come alongside those who are lonely, anxious, and depressed that they would be granted peace for their soul. Please, O God -- for we cherish and cling to the old rugged cross ‘til our trophies at last we lay down, and exchange the cross for a crown! Amen.

1 Corinthians 13:13 "Now I know only in part; then I will know fully, even as I have been fully known. And now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; and the greatest of these is love."

The Good News: As the Beatles said all those years ago, love is all you need. With love for one another reflecting the love of God, everything is possible; without it, our lives have no meaning.

Prayer: O God and Father, despite all the problems that surround us, there are yet reasons for giving thanks. Let us not lose sight of the blessings that you provide – of friends, of family, of this day, of our daily bread, of your amazing grace. May we be a blessing to others as we reach out to our neighbors and extend compassion to others. So many are in need, and so much is unknown. So as we live in this “lower story” of daily concerns and worry, we ask your help to remember that there is an “upper story” that overarches and frames eternity. So for your salvation and all your blessings, we abide in gratitude. This we pray in the name of Jesus – the Savior of healing touches, wondrous stories, broken bread, the cross, and resurrection. Amen.

Romans 8:31–32 "What then are we to say about these things? If God is for us, who is against us? He who did not withhold his own Son, but gave him up for all of us, will he not with him also give us everything else?"

The Good News: Nothing will separate us from God and God’s presence – not things past or present, not disease or difficulty!

Prayer: O Lord, help us. We are alone, but we are not alone. You abide. Help us and heal our world. We ask for your wisdom to guide our leaders, your blessing to be with health care workers and emergency responders, your support to be with those whose income and work are affected, your guidance to be with our students and educators as they deal with a whole new way of learning. We pray for those who work in the food industry – our farmers and laborers, truckers, grocery store personnel, those whose employment involves wells and water; as they work so that we may live, bless them. Help us in our distress and comfort us in our concerns. In the name of our Savior Jesus, Amen. 

1 John 4:8–9 "Whoever does not love does not know God, for God is love. God’s love was revealed among us in this way: God sent his only Son into the world so that we might live through him."

The Good News: Jesus has redeemed the world and is our only comfort in life and in death. Accept this gift of grace and rest with confidence in the arms of our merciful God.

Prayer: O Lord, as we think back to years gone by (do you remember, the twenty-first night of September?) – we find that, though there were moments of exquisite joy and nights of deepest sorrow, for the most part, we were just going along. Going to school. Going to work. Going to the store. Going to church. Going from one activity to another, all the while taking that “going” for granted. But this past several months has halted everything and caused us to both re-examine what we do and where we go, but also to pause in gratitude for even the possibilities we have of going and doing. So – for restaurants and gyms and hair salons and stores and shops and libraries and museums, thank you, O God. For meetings to attend and gatherings of colleagues, thank you, O God. Help us in our regathering for worship, for music rehearsals, for Bible studies. Mindful of the grace of your presence, bless us Lord Jesus to be a blessing of love to others. Amen. 

Matthew 5:3–5 "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth."

The Good News: The kingdom of God does not follow the rules of this earth; trust that the Lord will lift the downtrodden, comfort the depressed, and reward a humble heart.

Prayer: Gracious God, life is confounding and confusing. We’re moving through phases of reopening, and as we do so, keep up, our loved ones, our community, safe. We pray for governmental officials in our towns, our county and our state so that they effectively, and caringly, and helpfully, balance economic, physical and social needs. How great that we can worship both on-line and in person (9:15 and 11 a.m. tomorrow, respectively!) Speak your peace into our lives. Help us to follow ways of health and well-being. We pray for those on the spectrum-edges of life – those waiting to give birth and those who are frail in their aging. We pray for those “in the middle.” For school children and college-students; guide and guard them. For those seeking employment that they may not be economically devastated. We pray for those who are alone -- these are anxious times and to be isolated makes it even harder. Send your Spirit to comfort and bless. In the name of Jesus, the Good Shepherd. Amen.

Isaiah 49:13 “Sing for joy, O heavens, and exult, O earth; break forth, O mountains, into singing! For the Lord has comforted his people and will have compassion on his afflicted.”

The Good News: When you’re feeling lonely, sad, low, scared – you have One who sympathizes. Jesus has compassion on you and will come alongside with his comfort. Alleluia!

Prayer: God of grace and God of glory, on your people pour your power; crown your ancient church's story, bring its bud to glorious flower. Grant us wisdom, grant us courage for the facing of this hour!

Lo! the hosts of evil round us scorn the Christ, assail his ways! From the fears that long have bound us

free our hearts to faith and praise. Grant us wisdom, grant us courage for the living of these days

Cure your children's warring madness; bend our pride to your control; shame our wanton, selfish gladness, rich in things and poor in soul. Grant us wisdom, grant us courage, lest we miss your kingdom's goal.

Save us from weak resignation to the evils we deplore; let the gift of your salvation be our glory evermore. Grant us wisdom, grant us courage, serving you whom we adore. Amen.

(author: Harry Emerson Fosdick (1930)) 

Matthew 5:3–5 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.”

The Good News: God’s ways are not our ways. Thank goodness! Those who rely on power and pride will not fully nor finally succeed. Those who care, who empathize, who humble themselves inherit it all!

Prayer: O God of Morning, Noon and Night – thank you for each hour of the day. For each season of the year. For all the years you give to us. We pause in gratitude… There is, however, part of us that wishes that there was a beatitude that said, “Blessed are the impatient, for they shall receive what they’re waiting for.” These are challenging times. We know that it is for our health and well-being, but we miss singing together. Going to a professional sports event. Traveling without checking a quarantine list. The Election Day Event (we are grateful that we’ll still have an outdoor bazaar… but we’ll miss the cranberry relish and stuffing – and even more than that, the fellowship!). Yet we know we can’t always get what we want. So help us to refocus on what we can yet do. And all that is still happening. The leaves are beginning to turn color. The cider is still pressed and delicious. The ocean waves are yet captivating. The sun sets with marvelous beauty. Friends gather. Worship occurs. Your love endures forever. So hear our prayers, hasten the end of the pandemic and grant us your peace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

John 3:16–17 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.”

The Good News: Eternal life! What we have here and now is sacred, blessed and good – but it’s only for now. What endures is life that is freed from pain, problems, sadness or worry. Accept God’s offer of love. Invite Jesus to lodge with you. With that, a glad reunion awaits with all those who live eternally with God.

Prayer: God of our life, through all the circling years, we come to you in prayer and with praise. What an awesome reality – that we are not our own, but belong, body and soul, in life and in death, to you. So we will, one day (not so soon, please!) join with all the heavenly hosts and all those who lived before us – and even those who will come after us. I can scarcely imagine the joy of that reunion. So as we still yet are people who grieve here on earth, we ask for your sustenance and provision. We weep with those who weep, and we rejoice with those who rejoice. Thus we pray for those on hospice care (and for their nurses and caregivers). We pray for those whose loved ones died suddenly and life literally changed in a minute. We pray for those with other losses – loss of a dream, loss of a relationship, loss of a job, loss of a pet, loss of a pregnancy, loss of health, loss of faith. We also pray for those with good news – we celebrate those with new opportunities, those welcoming a child, those getting married despite not having a reception as they might have planned, those for whom the relationship with you, O God, has taken on a vibrancy heretofore unexperienced. So, for the mountain-top moments, we thank you. For the dark nights of the soul, we ask for your profound presence. In them both, thank you for not failing, nor forsaking us. In the name of God – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit: Amen. 

Exodus 15:2 "The Lord is my strength and my song; he has given me victory. This is my God, and I will praise him— my father’s God, and I will exalt him."

The Good News: We are connected – generation to generation in the family of God. We have strength to carry on because the Lord is with us. We can sing praises because God is our Savior.

Prayer: Dear God! – it’s been six months since “an abundance of caution” became the most used expression. Six months of the world turned upside down. Six months of wondering. And weeping. And waiting for a “flattened curve.” So we pray – still and again -- for health care providers and essential workers. Protect us all – and especially those who must work or study in circumstance of higher risk. We lift up our children and youth and college students as they attend school under such different and difficult circumstances; protect them. There is no good or easy way forward it seems. Thus we pray for our teachers and school-support staff – thank you for their dedication and care as they adapt to new and numerous challenges. We pray for school administrators and school boards – grant wisdom. We pray for our own nursery school. Keep all healthy and safe. And may learning occur and may fun yet be had and may friendships flourish. Help us all as we seek to grow in your grace and live in your love. And yes, bring an end to this pandemic! In the name of Jesus. Amen.

John 1:9 “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

The Good News: We sin. It’s true. We miss the mark of God’s intention for us and for our world. We are selfish when we are created to be selfless. Through God’s love for us, and by the amazing grace of Jesus, we are fully, finally and forever forgiven.

Prayer: O God, it’s not easy confronting those things within us that are disturbing, dark and secret. We do things we ought not – and we don’t do all that we should in loving all others. It’s easier to call out the faults of others. But for today, we seek your healing and help to deal with all that hinders us from living and loving like your Son. By your Holy Spirit, whisk away the dust that clogs our souls. Forgive us and help us to see things from the perspective of others, so that we might be empathetic and extend support that is more than lip-service. Instead of only circling the wagons and protecting what we have, guide us in ways that draw wide the circle of your love and extending hands of blessing and peace. We pray for those who have been displaced from home – the refugees of the world. We pray for those who are oppressed by systems outside of their control. We pray for those who are marginalized because of skin color or sexuality. O Lord, we pray for those with addictions that they would be healed, for those who are lonely that they would find welcome, for those who are unemployed that they would find work, for those who are at the end of their rope, that they would be able to claim hope. In the name of the only Savior of our world, Jesus, we pray. Amen.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

The Good News: Each person is given specific attributes, abilities, talents – spiritual gifts. But these are not for self-gain (although they do often, thanks be to God, bring happiness) but rather for the upbuilding of God’s Kingdom. We are in this venture of life together! God’s intention is for us to help and bless and encourage others. In so doing, we find ourselves blessed!

Prayer: Generous and gracious God – you have provided others with whom we can journey through this life. Thank you for our families. For friends. For classmates and co-workers and companions. Watch over and protect them. We pray for those on our sports teams and scout troops and our choirs and bands. How we miss the collegiality of gathering without concern. So help us get back to those encouraging relationships. And we pray for our church family. As we share in communion tomorrow – unite us. As we “rally” – guide us. As we celebrate with our confirmands – bless us. As we worship – grant us your peace. We pray for church school and Bible studies and musical groups as we work towards doing old activities in new ways. Help us to expand and extend your Kingdom so that more and more would know the saving grace of your Son Jesus. To that end, we pray for those outside our congregation – for those seeking faith, for those unsure of your presence, for those waiting to be invited. Help us to be a church of nurture, welcome and acceptance. Bless us to be a blessing. To you, O God, be all honor, glory and praise! Amen. 

Psalm 23:4 “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”

The Good News: We are reminded that evil attacks -- yet when it does, we ought not tremble or fear because Jesus went to the cross to decisively deal with all that destroys. Let’s roll!

Prayer: Help us and help our world, O God. We are grateful that since 9/11/2001 there haven’t been terrorist attacks on our country’s soil. For all who work diligently for our safety, we give thanks. For FBI agents and TSA personnel and law enforcement and government officials and our military – and an aware public -- thank you. Keep watch over us, Lord and protect us and those we love. We pray for peace in our world. There are so, so, so many who live in desperate situations where despots rule and violence is a daily way of life. Genocide, identity theft, suicide bombers, insurrection… Please, God, no! We pray fervently for a better world for our children. May the years ahead bring reconciliation, peace, harmony, and a re-greening of the planet. We pray for cooperation not chaos, trust not terrorism, hope and not hate. Come to us O Prince of Peace and reign! Amen.

Romans 8:35, 37 “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”

The Good News: Though difficulties come by many names, there is one way they are vanquished. God is love – and love is victorious.

Prayer: Ever loving Lord, first off, thank you! Thank you for the gift of your son, Jesus. We come with gratitude that we aren’t left to figure out the stress of life all on our own. Despite all the challenges (and they are many!), you are with us, coming alongside to help us – and even sometimes, to carry us. When it gets to be too much, hold us and help us. Please! And when life gets to be too much for others, may we live and love in such a way that they see your radiance, your support, your presence through us. We can’t solve every problem, but we can do a few things to help make it a better world. Help us to do those things that bring your Kingdom into clarity and “on earth as it is in heaven.” So we pray for those who are in leadership that the decisions they make would both address and offer solutions for issues like famine, homelessness and war. Thus we pray for those who are empty – those who have empty stomachs, empty bank accounts, empty lives. By the power of the empty tomb, fill them, and us all, with your resurrection power. Restore us and remind us that you are the God of victory and that we too are then more than conquerors though him who loves us! In the name of Jesus. Amen. 

Psalm 90:12 "So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom."

The Good News: It's natural that life on Earth ends, but it's key to make all our days matter. Live to the fullest and follow God's commandments now, and look forward to living eternally with God in heaven in a blessed future.

Prayer: God of might and valor – help us! We seek to be strong; we want to be courageous despite the current circumstances. Yet it is so challenging. It’s another Wednesday – with how many more days and weeks of “life on hold?” Our children are struggling with the lack of socialization and structure and needing to learn. Parents are struggling with the need to balance school on-line, and work, and all that is part of being a parent and running a household. We all feel the effects of isolation – not singing, not hugging, not seeing smiles because of masks. We pray for our choirs that would have started rehearsals. We pray for our nursery school as it looks to start classes. Help us, God. Help us find that balance that focuses on both caution and opportunity. We are waiting. And waiting. And waiting for relief. Help us to wait for you, Lord and Savior, with a knowledge that you have good things ahead for us and for our world. So surprise us with joy, hope, faith, peace and love that surpasses all we have known or expected. Do great and marvelous things in our world, for we pray in the name of the Mighty Deliverer! Amen.

Hebrews 10:23 “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.”

The Good News: Sometimes we look at the world around us and we shake our heads. So much conflict and strife. We wonder if there is even the possibility that we can ever be a society of peace and cooperation. While that is elusive here and now, with God the future will be one of eternal harmony. The cross and the empty tomb have established that blessed assurance. Thank you, Jesus!

Prayer: O God – in our watching and waiting, we bring our prayers of “Wow!” – the beauty of a sunset, the constancy of the ocean waves, the deliciousness of corn on the cob or a cider doughnut, the laughter of a baby. We also bring our prayers of “Thanks!” – the friends we enjoy, the church that blesses, the opportunities for renewal and refreshment of an ordinary Tuesday. We also bring our prayers of “Help!” – help those who are sick and suffering, help those who are receiving radiation or chemotherapy, help those who are both physically distanced and emotionally distanced from family, help those who are marginalized because of their race, help those with addictions, help those who are financially distressed. We lay our requests before you O God, and wait expectantly… Amen.

Ecclesiastes 3:22 “Nothing is better for a man than that he should eat and drink, and that his soul should enjoy good in his labor.”

The Good News: Labor Day! A day to reflect on the work God calls us to do, and the reasons why we do it! We work for the upbuilding of God’s Kingdom in a variety of vocations. But we are more than what we do. Let us rest in the fact that we are cherished by God just by our very being! Thanks be to God for abiding love and grace.

Prayer: O God – there is a time to work and a time to refrain from working. There is a time to plant and a time to harvest. There is a time for summer’s refreshment and fall’s refocus. As we give thanks for this Labor Day, we confess that it’s strange. In years past this marked a transition to thinking about school starting and church activities resuming. But…! But we just don’t know. What is the right thing to do? And how? When? So much uncertainty. So give your direction and wisdom and guidance, O God. This is beyond what we can figure out. We need socialization and sharing. We need to get our businesses going. We need to connect with people. We need to worship together – especially for funerals, for baptisms, for weddings, for communion. Help!!! So comfort the grieving, gladden those with babies, bless those in love, strengthen us in faith. We pause in quiet contemplation, praying for those who work so that we may enjoy, eat, worship, and live in peace. May your Kingdom come, on earth as it is in heaven, Lord Jesus. Amen. 

Romans 15:13 “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

The Good News: We are filled by God with joy and peace. Alleluia! And we are not just filled, but overflow, with hope. Let the hope that we have with God seep into our souls and the spill over into the world that so desperately needs a positive perspective.

Prayer: God of the cosmos, so often we live with a perspective of how things affect our family, our church, our community, our country. Yet covid-19 has affected the entire world. When before has something been so extensive that every person across the globe has needed to react? Is that part of Your plan? That the entire world is focused together on combatting this so that, in some divine way, the entire world can be focused together on your power and presence? We pause to pray that you would use this moment in time to banish unholy division, to break the stranglehold of sin and selfishness, to end war, and to cease senseless destruction. Send your Holy Spirit to convict leaders of the world that we would cooperate. It is beyond our comprehension that conflicts could cease and that the environment would re-fresh and that enemies become friends. Yet your ways are not our ways. Praise be to you, O God! So bring your ways to bear. Claim your rightful place as Lord of lords and King of kings – forever! Rescue us and bring your victory to reign and rule. Hallelujah! Amen. 

Psalm 42:11 “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.”

The Good News: There are downcast days and there are praise-filled days. That’s life. Yet when we link life with God, the “praise-filled days” will win. Better days are ahead. Salvation, joy, peace and love will have the last word!

Prayer: O Lord and Savior, the sun is setting earlier and the evening temperatures are cooler. We started dealing with this pandemic back when the daffodils were just starting to blossom and now we’re soon to talk about autumn leaves. We’ve been praying and praying and praying – and yet the world is still gripped by the unknown. So help us to focus on what is known – the kindness that is exhibited as we band together. True – there are some who aren’t kind; we pray for them in their anger and unrest. But there are so many who have stepped up to help. Thank you for emergency service personnel. Thank you for generous tippers. Thank you for neighbors who have offered to help. Thank you for those in the healing arts and health care vocations. Thank you for people who put the well-being of others before personal comfort or the claiming of “rights.” Thank you for the gift of your Son, Jesus. How we need to look beyond the present moment and know that you will provide for us and for our world. Yet, we’re tired of waiting – so grant us patience too. Come and bring help, hope and healing. Amen. 

Proverbs 9:11 "For by me your days will be multiplied, and years will be added to your life."

The Good News: Give thanks to the Lord, for we owe him the gift of life. By living a faithful life, we will have a fulfilling journey to heaven.

Prayer: God of all time and place, thank you! It’s a new day! New possibilities for love, for grace, for friendship, for learning, for faith. Surprise us with joy, O Friend and Savior. Encounter us today in a way that would have seemed surprising even last month. It would be great if it were healing. It would be amazing if it were peace. It would be wonderful if it were an embrace of restored relationships. But whatever you have in store for us, thank you for your provision. Since it comes from your Fatherly hand, we know that whatever happens will ultimately be for our good. Sometimes though, your goodness and grace are cloudy. Murky. Hidden even. So shine your light to bring clarity to our hope. Grant unto us a glimpse of the glory that is yet to come in your fullness. But as we wait – we pause in gratitude for those who love us unconditionally, and support us unfalteringly. May we be that kind of family member or friend for others. Bless our church family. Bless us that we may be a blessing to those in need. Through Jesus’ name we pray, Amen. 

Micah 7:7 “But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me.”

The Good News: This has been a long summer of waiting. We’ve been watching for the Lord for months. But in the timing of God, this is but momentary. We will be heard and God will rescue, restore and rebuild us. Hold on! God is with us.

Prayer: God of might and valor – help us! We seek to be strong; we want to be courageous despite the current circumstances. Yet it is so challenging. It’s another Wednesday – with how many more days and weeks of “life on hold?” Our children are struggling with the lack of socialization and structure. Yet how will school look? We all feel the effects of isolation – because of masks not seeing smiles; because of necessity, not hugging; because of inability, not traveling as much. So help us, God. Help us establish a new normal that focuses on both caution and opportunity. We are waiting. And waiting. And waiting for relief. Help us to wait for you, Lord and Savior, with a knowledge that you have good things ahead for us and for our world. So surprise us with joy, hope, faith, peace and love that surpasses all we have known or expected. Do great and marvelous things in our world, for we pray in the name of the Mighty Deliverer! Amen. 

Psalm 105:1-4 “Give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done. Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice. Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always.”

The Good News: As we bring our needs and concerns to God, God is gracious to receive them. We also bring our praises to God with joy, for there are multitudinous reasons for giving thanks. What are they for your this day? Sing to God and seek his face!

Prayer: Holy, holy, holy God, you are merciful and mighty. Thus we come in humility and in gratitude. What a privilege to carry everything to you in prayer! O what peace we often forfeit, what needless pain we bear by not carrying everything to you in prayer. Yet before we bring our petitions to you, we bring our praise! How great Thou art! When we see the stars and hear the rolling thunder, we pause in awesome wonder. Creator of the rolling spheres, you are our best thought, by day or by night. Waking or sleeping, your presence is our light. So give us your amazing grace, your blessed assurance, to tune our hearts to sing your praise. And then, when the future is murky, O precious Lord, take our hand and lead us on. The ways of this world are so challenging. We are weary of bickering and bullying. We are worried about a resurgence of the virus. We long for being with friends and family. We long to be with our church family – face-to-face. So grant unto us strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow. And as we pray, we are mindful of the cross, that cross upon which the Prince of Glory died for us and for our sins. Yet that is not the end of the story – so we are ever thankful that Jesus has triumphed o'er the grave and rose victorious in the strife for those he came to save. Thank you for saving us now and forevermore. Alleluia! Praise, praise the Father, praise the Son, and praise the Spirit, Three in One! Amen! 

Romans 12:12 “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”

The Good News: God is present – not just to help us limp along, but to be victorious! Yes, there are significant problems, both personally and globally, but God sends the Holy Spirit to ensure that we will persevere and prevail!

Prayer: God of hope – you have asked us to be constant in prayer. So we come now to touch base and share with you our reasons for giving thanks, our requests for help and just to “check in.” Of course we seek not to make our relationship with you seem lightly-considered, but there are times when we just get so caught up in our needs and plans and responsibilities that we forget that You care about all of these and more. So we pause to remember that you are our Heavenly Father and that we can share with you about how angry we get when plans are altered, and how we ache when we can’t join with friends and family in their moments of need or joy. Yet this re-opening of society is challenging. Who to believe? Who to trust? How to balance what is good for health and good for the economy and good for our souls? Provide clarity, O God! We are ready to unreservedly rejoice! In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen. 

Isaiah 41:10 “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

The Good News: Over and over the Bible instructs us not to fear. We need to hear that often because our default tends to be worry. God is present to calm us, to strengthen us, to relieve our unsettled minds and upset spirits. Repeatedly God tells us not that he might strengthen/help/uphold us –but that he will!

Prayer: Unchangeable God – though we live in these months of tremendous change, you are strong and steady. Thank you for being with us when our lives swirl out of control. We pray that you would help and heal us – but also that you would use us to combat the cruel challenges that cross our paths. Comfort those who grieve. Guide those who govern. Support those who serve. And, O God -- whether it be to sing lullabies or bake bread or give a bouquet of flowers or work with wood, use us to infuse this world with a bit of beauty. How we want to be back together – sharing, singing, laughing, loving -- so it is we pray for those who are working in fields of health-recovery and research. Give us patience, we pray, and help us, each and all, to do what is necessary to “flatten the curve.” We also pray for employers and employees that there is opportunity to work well and have both purpose and productivity. Uphold us, O great and gracious God. Amen.

Nehemiah 9:6 “You alone are the Lord. You have made the heavens, the heaven of heavens with all their host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to all of them and the heavenly host bows down before You.”

The Good News: God has created stars beyond what we can observe and cells that are unfathomable without a microscope. Just because we can’t see them, doesn’t negate their existence. God’s ways are so much larger than what we can even consider. The scope of God’s care is broader than what we can comprehend.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, sometimes we get stuck believing that what you have in store for us is only what we feel, or know, or believe. Yet, through Jesus, you’ve given us a life beyond this life and speak in the language of infinity and eternity. Our losses are real – but they are not forever. So thank you Lord for what is forever – love lasts. Relationships endure. So comfort us in times of grief, steady us in times of change, inspire us in times of anguish, come close in times of isolation. Rebuild our communities, our economy, our lives. Stir people’s hearts towards kindness and empathy. Extend to us your mercy which is higher than the heavens and heal us in mind, body and spirit. Abide with us, precious Savior. Amen. 

Psalm 37:39 "The salvation of the righteous is from the Lord; He is their stronghold in the time of trouble."

The Good News: God is our Savior in times of trouble -- for the Bible tells me so! Little ones to Him belong; we are weak but He is strong. Yes, Jesus loves me!

Prayer: O living Lord – be our rock, our fortress, our strength. What has happened??? All that used to be “normal” – worshiping together, getting on airplanes, traveling to see family, shopping for fun, county fairs, going to baseball games and concerts – all that we miss makes us feel adrift and wistful. How we long for being together again. Yet museums are beginning to re-open. Cautious plans are being made. Still and all, the questions are many and the feelings of vulnerability are deeply-felt, O God. Keep us safe. And help us to not to look to all that we can’t do, but to all that we can. Come alongside and give us peace that passes understanding. May we abide in hope. Give us victory through your Son, our Lord, Jesus! Amen. 

James 1:2-4 "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."

The Good News: These are tough times – but God gives us faith and strength to endure and perhaps even grow. How can our resolve grow stronger and our love for others increase?

Prayer: O Rock and Redeemer – we want to be faithful. We know we are not the first generation to face hardship, but this world-wide pandemic has us on edge. It’s been months as we cough and wonder, “Is it the virus?” or we go to the store and worry, “Was I exposed?” So we pray for ourselves and our loved ones. Keep us healthy. And we pray for all who work in places where exposure is more likely. Keep them protected, O Lord! Especially we lift up those in nursing homes and rehab centers and prisons and hospitals and military barracks/ships and college dorms -- where so many are vulnerable because living quarters are close. And we pray for those who serve in jobs where contact is higher – for wait-staff in restaurants, for bank-tellers and store clerks, for barbers/nail techs/hairdressers. And how we pray for students – for those in college, or those children in our country who have started classes, as well as those who will be soon. We pray for professors, teachers and instructors – may safety abound and health be preserved. In the name of the great Physician, Jesus Christ. Amen. 

1 Samuel 16:7 “But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. 

People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.’”

The Good News: This scene about choosing a King for Israel in the Old Testament reveals that God often uses unlikely people to carry out his plans. We live in a world of glamor, celebrity, wealth – but God is not interested in a person’s popularity, but rather in one’s character. Focus on living with faithfulness and integrity and selflessness.

Prayer: O Righteous Judge, give us strength and fortitude to be the kind of person you want and that the world needs. It’s so easy to crave the praise of others. Help us not to seek to be admired for the way we look or the things we own or the power we wield, but rather to humble ourselves so that we can be servants of others – helping, caring, encouraging. So we lift up in gratitude those who give of themselves so selflessly. We thank you for volunteers giving of their time and talent to make this a better world. We thank you for those who donate blood and plasma. We thank you for EMTs and firefighters and police officers. We thank you for teachers. We thank you for public defenders. We thank you for those who wash dishes and clean our clothes and haul away our garbage. So many give and serve in order to make this a better world. Bless us O God, that we might be a blessing to others and to work for the up-building of your Kingdom. Come, Lord Jesus! Amen.

Revelation 21:4 “God will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away."

The Good News: The time will come when God will take away all pain and suffering. Eternal life is our promise; resurrection is assured; salvation is God’s great gift.

Prayer: O God of all comfort and blessing, we pause in the midst of difficult and distressing times to just acknowledge your presence. This pandemic has made us mindful of things like masks and washing hands and online worship and zoom meetings. We wonder about the economy – but may we never wonder about you. So come, and let your Spirit’s reassurance wash over us that we are not alone, that you will not let the challenges of these present days persist. So by your power, bring healing! Eradicate COVID-19! To that end, we give thanks, first and foremost for the gift of your son Jesus, our friend and Savior. We worship you and adore you for your goodness and mercy, which follows us all the days of our lives. But so many are grieving and anxious. Tragic accidents still occur. Friends are hospitalized. Come in real, persistent and tangible ways that we might be reassured that you are present in personal ways. Bless our families, our church family. The hopes and fears of all the years are laid before your throne of amazing grace. Help us! Please, Lord Jesus. Amen. 

1 John 3:1: "See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him."

The Good News: We are children of God! We are cherished always and unconditionally. God is a safe place to land.

Prayer: O holy Father, we know that we aren’t perfect. Far from it. And these days -- and weeks -- and months -- have challenged us. Yet you love us with an everlasting love. And you want good for us. So use your power to turn the hearts of all people – all over the world – to your will and your ways. Work in and through the leaders of government to collaborate on solutions not only to this pandemic, but for the ceasing of violence and war, for the healing of the planet , for the eradication of disease, for the elimination of hunger, for the lessening of the gap between the “haves” and “have nots.”. We pray for our military and their families as they work for peace; save us from war! We pray for our children and their future – may this be a time and turning point towards the beginning of a new kind of hope and help for all the people of the globe. Come, Holy Spirit! Amen. 

Psalm 23:6 “Surely Your goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

The Good News: God knows that during our earthly life there will be mountain-top days along with times in the valley of the shadow of death. But in and through them all, we are infused with goodness and love. When our earthly journey is completed, we have a promise of an eternal home and everlasting life!

Prayer: O God, how we are grateful that “there’s no place like home.” Our physical homes are wonderful places of refuge from the storms of life. Yet home is where the heart is. We can change addresses, but the safety net of love goes with us because You go with us. So, we thank you for your goodness and mercy, and that we are never alone. In addition to your presence to comfort us, we humbly ask that you would provide relationships to sustain us. Thank you for companions-on-the-way. So, in granting us friendship, may we also be friends unto others. In these days of quiet desperation, so many are needing a word of support, a gesture of belonging, the blessing of being remembered. We pause in gratitude for those who have inspired us in the past, and are mindful of those who pray for us now, those who laugh with us, those who are in book clubs or sports teams with us, those who work with us, those who serve with us. Thank you for them! So we lift up those in need of healing, hope, connection and care… In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Romans 12:2 “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is — His good, pleasing and perfect will.”

The Good News: This world is filled with many blessings – but also many challenges. We have to wait for Jesus to return to realize the fullness of God’s Realm. In the meantime, we have all sorts of problems. Yet we aren’t to give in or give up. We can give thanks that God’s ways are not the ways of this world. So we ought to seek alignment with those ways; we ought to seek transformation. God is with us!

Prayer: O God, these are times of grace and gratitude – but also of change and challenge. We lift up our prayers of thanksgiving for that which is upbuilding and renewing. Thank you for homes in which to live; food for our tables; friendship for our souls. Help us not to take those for granted nor to miss the blessings contained therein. We have refrigerators and indoor plumbing and cars – things that were luxuries only a century ago. And internet access! Wow! Though we have become zoomed-out and weary of only seeing people through a screen, we have the technology which permits us these new ways of connectedness. So thank you, God. But all progress isn’t great – or perhaps it just seems that the world is more fractured and dangerous. Whatever the reason, may we not be conformed to the self-centeredness, the judgmentalism, the fear of this world. Using your Kingdom as a model, guide us in ways of peace, forgiveness, hospitality, and kindness. Help us to listen carefully and to love lavishly.

Ever and always in the name of Jesus… Amen!

Philippians 4:12-13 "I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation ... I can do everything through Him who gives me strength."

The Good News: Contentment! What a gift. There will be days of joy as well as the dark nights of the soul. What can help “flatten the curve” of the roller coaster of need/plenty is learning contentment. The first step in that is looking to Jesus and focusing on Him.

Prayer: God-with-us, we bring our praises and we bring our petitions. We are grateful that you are with us and will sustain us despite the all-too-real challenges of life. Thus, for the times when we enjoy “plenty” we bring our prayers of thanksgiving. For birthdays and bridal showers and vacations we give thanks, even as celebrations are held in new and different ways.

Then, for the times when we experience “need” may you, our Shepherd, supply what we need. You know what we need – and that is unique to each member of your flock. So for some it’s an extra-measure of patience, for others peace, still others relief from pain. Today our prayers focus on those who are our frail elderly and those who care for them – the effects of aging can be challenging, physically, mentally and emotionally. So in these times of physical distancing, we need help. Many are lonely -- patients in hospitals and rehab centers miss connections with loved ones at that time of increased need; residents at continuing care communities are more isolated than what is wanted. And the same happens on the other end of life’s spectrum! We pray for children who just want to run and play and make sand castles together. O God, craft for us a sense of contentment that allows for connections while also maintaining health and safety. We need you – and we need one another. We look to you, Jesus. Bless us, we humbly pray, that we might extend your peace and expand your Kingdom, for yours is the power and the glory. Amen. 

Ecclesiastes 3:1 “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”

The Good News: Each season has beauty. Summer has its time of warm (hot!) weather and opportunities to enjoy the outdoors; Fall has crisp, cooler air and a beautiful palette of colors; Winter, in its dormancy, is when so much looks barren yet is really just storing up all that is needed for…; Spring is a time of growth and re-greening. So the cycle goes. A time for tides to go out and tides to come in. A time for birth and a time for death. Which leads to a time for resurrection. Abide in the never-ending care of God.

Prayer: Ever-present God – here we are mid-month, which means it’s been five months of physical distancing and mask wearing and non-gathering. I miss hugs and handshakes! Will we ever get back to being able to get together with others without having first to think about the effects of doing so? Oh dear Lord, this is gone on so long, and we’re not able to see the end in sight. So we hand such “big picture problems” to you, O God. Bring us safely through this. Provide opportunities for connection and love. Emotionally and spiritually these are trying times, so, when we are weary, grant strength to endure. When people are ill, bring healing. And in the midst of economic difficulties, make this a season of “upswing” and not “downturn.” So many are reeling from the effects of COVID-19… that a virus could completely unravel society! So give wisdom to our leaders. Grant blessings upon blessings upon our health-care professionals, first responders, and essential workers. So many continue to do so much for so many. Help us, Jesus! Help! Help! How long, O Lord will this season of challenge continue? Hear us and help us. We’re tired and need hope. Heal our world. In the name of Jesus. Amen. 

Isaiah 12:2 "Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord, is my strength and my song; He has become my salvation."

The Good News: These words from the Hebrew Scriptures are centuries old, yet with a conviction that is ever new and with the need for help when we are afraid. God is (not was, not will be – but is) our salvation, our strength, our song!

Prayer: As Charles Wesley leads us in song: Love divine, all loves excelling, Joy of heav'n to earth come down: fix in us thy humble dwelling, all thy faithful mercies crown: Jesus, thou art all compassion, pure, unbounded love thou art; visit us with thy salvation, enter ev'ry trembling heart. Finish, then, thy new creation; pure and spotless let us be: let us see thy great salvation perfectly restored in thee; changed from glory into glory, 'til in heav'n we take our place, 'til we cast our crowns before thee, lost in wonder, love, and praise. Amen! 

Philippians 1:9-11 “And this is my prayer: That your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ-to the glory and praise of God.”

The Good News: Discernment is a process. And it involves prayer and it involves community. Please note that the “you” in this passage is plural. We seek to know God’s ways, we seek to gain a depth of insight, we seek to be filled with the blessings of right living… together! Faith is not a solo adventure. Encourage one another. Pray for one another. Love one another.

Prayer: Gracious and giving God – we are grateful for the gift of your Son, our Lord Jesus. Help us to know him better. As the song goes: “to see thee more clearly, to love thee more dearly, to follow thee more nearly , day by day.” So we seek to be faithful. We seek to grow in our devotion. We used to be able to do this more effectively because we could meet together for prayer and encouragement and worship. The pandemic makes that harder to do. So help us, rather than just be sad that things are not the way they used to be – help us to be creative in discovering new ways to connect, new opportunities to serve, new possibilities to live and love like Jesus. So lead us Lord! And hear us as we pray for church leaders and missionaries. We pray for the consistory of the Colts Neck Reformed Church as they meet (via zoom!) tonight. By your Spirit, help them to discern best ways of moving forward in faith. So keep us safe. Keep us strong. Keep us effective. Keep us together. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Hebrews 12:14 “Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.”

The Good News: When something is “holy” it means that it is set apart or consecrated. It is special, not ordinary. So set yourself apart from the ways of the world. As God’s people, make every effort to be about special and “set apart” tasks, living not for personal gain alone, but for the upbuilding of the very Kingdom of God.

Prayer: Giving and gracious God – we set apart these moments to focus not on “what shall we wear” or “where is our coffee” but to just say “thank You.” Thank you for the gift of Jesus. For sending your Son to be our strength and stay. For the gift of the Holy Spirit as we need comfort and encouragement. So for this holy minute – we just rest in your presence. What an awesome thing that is (and we’re not just overusing that word – it is awe-some) that you call us by name, that you love us unconditionally, and that you prepare a place for us to one-day abide with you in heaven. So, taking time to be holy, we ask that you would bring blessings to our world. There is so much stress and dis-stress in our world. Bickering and backstabbing. Violence and entitlement and side-taking and rights-claiming. Enough! So as far as it depends on me this day, help me O God to give more than I take, to pray as much as I play, to help rather than hinder. In terms of specific prayers – today let us lift up our college students. Some have headed back to campus, some won’t be. Questions abound about virtual learning, dorm-living, cafeteria-dining. So keep our students safe and physically healthy and emotionally secure no matter where they are. Protect their professors too! These are challenging circumstances. Give wisdom and a special measure of your blessing, O Lord. Amen.

John 12:34 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”

The Good News: As part of Jesus’ final earthly words, he instructs his disciples then, and us today, to love one another. If we were to know that we could only have a few more words to share, what would they be? Last words matter. They are important. So it’s of urgency and of utmost importance that we listen to Jesus and love one another.

Prayer: Dearest Lord, it sounds so simple: “love one another.” Yet it takes a life-time to learn. To be self-less, kind, patient, non-envious is our calling and commission, yet in this world of sin it seems that, for too many people, the motivation is the exact opposite. Help us to be people who live and love like your Son, our Lord. So come to us by your Holy Spirit that a new way of being, a fresh start, a revolution of blessedness would occur. Use this time of pandemic to soften hard hearts, to renew a focus on what is ultimately important, and to refocus the world on you. Save us from discouragement and give us renewed energy to love one another. Thus we pray for those in our orbit, those you call us to love. We pray for our townships and their leaders. We pray for the businesses we patronize and their staff. We pray for those who mow our lawns and grow our food and cut our hair. We pray for our dentists and physicians and eye doctors. We pray for those who worked to restore electrical power to our communities. We pray for our church family – love, love, love! We pray for our friends. For parents and children, grandparents and grandchildren, aunts and uncles and cousins, siblings and all those who treat us as family. Help us to extend love to more and more people throughout this week. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

2 Corinthians 5:7 “For we live by faith, not by sight.”

The Good News: It is so great that God gives us our senses so we can better navigate, and appreciate, the world around us. And it is even better that God gives that which is beyond what we can see, touch, smell, taste and hear. Faith isn’t tangible, but it is real. Ask God for the gift of faith and trust. God’s ways aren’t our ways – but they are right and good and lead to salvation.

Prayer: Providing God – for the sight of a seashore, for the touch of the sun’s warm rays, for the smell of the post-rain air, for the sound of laughter, for the taste of fruits and vegetables freshly picked, we thank you. You offer an abundance of delights for which we pause in praise. What a wonderful world! But for that which is beyond sense, deeper than what we can grasp on our own, we seek your provision. Help us to live by faith; following where you lead. For we need that supernatural support now. These are trying times. We need the help that only you can provide, O Lord. So come alongside us. There are many struggling for economic security – people are worried over bills that accumulate and can’t be paid; we pray for them. There are many under the weight of mental illness; we pray for them. There are many enslaved by addiction; we pray for them. Set us free! Come, Holy Spirit to rescue us and our society. Bless us so we might be a blessing to others. In the name of Jesus. Amen. 

Ecclesiastes 7:10 “Do not say, ‘Why were the old days better than these?’ For it is not wise to ask such questions.”

The Good News: It is tempting to live in the past, recollecting the “good old days.” Yet the past is what has happened and cannot be changed. It is better to seek to make the days now and in the future the best we can, with God’s help.

Prayer: O God it is often good to think of times gone by and give thanks – for childhood innocence, memories of pleasant places, relationships of good connections. Thank you for sacred moments and loving people from our past. We do not arrive at this present moment without a history. Yet you ask us not to live wistfully, only looking backward. For you have plans for us! Thank you! So, we give thanks for a good history, we ask for healing for those emotional traumas from yesteryear, but now look to this day. May this be the day that we find multiple reasons for joy. Grant us strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow! So as we yet recover from the storms this week, we tap into your power. May you, heavenly Father, help us externally and also internally. Slow the spread of this virus and so move into people’s psyche that all may do their part to promote public safety. May these upcoming months be marked by care, concern and mutual blessings so that these will one day be the “good old days” for our children. That’s hard to fathom how that will be, yet we bring that big prayer to you in the name of Jesus, who is all-powerful and all-loving. Amen. 

Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

The Good News: We are invited to approach Jesus. He’s our friend and offers support, a listening ear, a comforting touch, help for the journey, rest when we’re weary and blessings when we are weak. Yes, Jesus love us – the Bible tells us so!

Prayer: Blessed Savior, the whole world is wearied by COVID-19. How much longer? May you use these days of challenge to bring about a renewed interest in faith, a revived focus on care and cooperation and compassion, and a restored sense of inter-personal harmony. So we bring our burdens to you. Take them from us - and give us rest. For we are wearied not just because of the pandemic, but also because of so many things. Even though this is a beautiful world (and it is) it is filled with challenges – debt, depression, divorce, danger, difficulty, disease, deceit, division, disadvantages, discouragement and disagreements – and death. We need to be rescued from all these. Thus we come to you. Embrace us as a loving mother would hold her child – to comfort and console. Make it all right, O God! Please! Give us a day of encouragement and a night of rest. Help us, heal our world, grant us hope. Amen.

John 6:35 “Then Jesus declared, ‘I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to Me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in Me will never be thirsty.’”

The Good News: God provides! Even when the circumstances of life leave us empty and parched, God’s Spirit will give us blessings that sustain and empower. Relying on ourselves is hard work – and is an ongoing process that requires daily attention. To endure we need God’s supernatural fuel!

Prayer: O Holy Spirit – even as this world is rightly concerned about air flow and containing our breathing from dispersing potentially harmful particles, you are the opposite! Thank you for coming among us as the Breath of life, not a breath of death. You fill us when the world depletes us. You can yet surprise us with joy. The news is often bleak but your news is Good News! You reveal yourself to us in your Word and we come to know of hope, mercy, love, peace, blessing, reconciliation, healing, and resurrection! Wow! Thank you! And so, as Bruce Springsteen has sung: “May your strength give us strength; May your faith give us faith; May your hope give us hope; May your love give us love.” Help us to be conduits of your grace and vessels of help. So many are in need; use us Lord to be agents of encouragement to this weary world. Fill us so that we may fill others with tangible help. In the name of God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit, Amen.

Philippians 1:6 "And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ."

The Good News: God finishes what God starts! The God of creation is the same God of salvation. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be. World without end! Amen and amen. All will be made right… in God’s time.

Prayer: All-present, all-loving God – I am a work in progress! I know it and, at times, that’s revealed in what I do, and in what I don’t do! For the times I “get it right” I give you praise. (Help me not to take all the credit!) For the times when I miss the mark, forgive me and guide me to doing better next time. (Help me not to blame you for my mistakes!) So, not meaning it in a boastful way, but thank you for all that in me is good. Thanks for the talents you’ve given, the spiritual gifts and attributes I have – may I cultivate them and use them to your glory! You have dispersed aptitudes for meeting the variety of needs through a variety of people. Sometimes I can get a bit jealous over those who are smarter or more artistic or more athletic or more hospitable or more faithful than I. Spare me from comparison and seek to be the “best me I can be.” You have begun this work in me – and have called it a “good work” – so I rejoice in the opportunity to serve You and love others in the way I am uniquely called to do. Of course I pray for others this day, but I also (humbly) pray for myself. Be near me Lord Jesus… Amen.

Psalm 46:1-3 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.

The Good News: Storms come. We don’t know when or how, but it’s a fact of life that storms come, pandemics come, tough times come. It’s also a fact that we don’t face the storms alone. God is always with us. When all seems to rage around us, God bids us to come for refuge and strength. God is ever-present. And that means today!

Prayer: O God of power and might, O God of presence and peace – we come to you this day asking for your protection and blessing. Sometimes it seems like such a “first world problem” to ask that you would protect our possessions, yet we do seek just that help – to make our homes places of safety and to keep our cars and boats from damage. We are reminded once again that, though we like to have control, we aren’t in control. Wind, rain, virus – these come unbidden and unwelcomed. So, in the midst of these, we call on your name. You are in control. You are all-powerful. You are our only refuge and our true strength. Abide with us and grant us your peace. As we pray for ourselves, we also lift up prayers for public spaces and places – and ask your presence guide and guard our schools and hospitals and libraries and stores and parks and beaches. May our roads and bridges be paths of connection and avenues that provide for blessing. So O Lord, in the midst of what rages, we pray for peace of mind, peace of body, peace of spirit – peace for our souls and peace for our world. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Micah 6:8 God has showed you what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

The Good News: We have been saved by God’s grace alone. How are we called to live? Here are directions for a good and grateful life. May we seek, more and more, for our actions to be just, our relationships be merciful, and our journey be that of humility.

Prayer: O dearest Jesus, would that more people approach life with humility! Wouldn’t that go a long way in the hope department? Instead so often the powerful and proud grab headlines. But for today, may we not give them any mind – instead we say “thank you” for those who are merciful, and lift up prayers of gratitude for those who act justly. There are many who quietly go about the good and right task of faithful living. So… thank you, Lord for (among others): those who caringly watch young children while parents are at work; those who launder and dry clean our clothes; missionaries who forgo personal comfort in order to share the Gospel; those who deliver our packages and our mail; those who clean and sanitize our hospitals, our stores, our offices, our homes; the many volunteers in non-profit organizations. Thank you for those who cook our meals. And thank you Jesus, for hosting the meal that nourishes us unto salvation. Through that feast of remembrance, communion and hope, may we be sustained in order to quietly and courageously serve all your people. Bless us Holy Spirit that we may be a blessing. Amen.