In this ordinary time, you remind us of the dangers that lurk in the darkness when we let down our guards. Speak, so we will hear your voice and remain near you. Shine in this landscape of our lives, so no evil will take up residence within us.
Speak Lord! We your people are listening. Thank you for reminding us that you do not require pomp and ceremony. You desire a relationship with us. It brings you joy and honour when we call out to you and ask for help. May our praise and thanksgiving bring you joy and honour.
We enter your sacred prayer space, and we are reminded of all you taught us when you walked upon Mother Earth as a human. Even now, your Elders and Knowledge Keepers –- both past and present -– continue to guide us. They remind us that your gift of the Holy Spirit is always with us, also guiding us.
Everything we have–everything we see and know– exists because of your will. You created each of us with your love and purpose, to work all things together for good. Bless the use of our gifts, so we will also be a blessing to creation and each other.
In awe, we worship you Creator God. Your voice thunders, causing the earth to shake and your whisper can calm us, bringing us hope and joy. Many are fearful of you because they do not know you. We want to know you more. Thank you for making us strong and for giving us peace.
We feel peace and comfort as we enter your sacred prayer space. You encourage us to greet each other in a good way. We sometimes struggle with judgemental attitudes towards others. But your way is the way of patience, love, and peace. Your guidance is to bury the hatchet of judgement and prejudice, and to make things right with each other.
Today, we invite you to reread, rest and reflect on the prayers of the past week.
Lectionary Readings for Today:
Job 38:22-38
Psalm 8:1-9
John 14:15-17
With our hands, we will tend and care for your creation. With our ears, we will hear your voice. With our eyes, we will see the needs of others. With our voices, we will speak and sing health, peace, and love. With our hearts, we will show your compassion with creation and each other, so we will journey in a good way.
My mouth is full of crap and I speak out of ignorance, out of selfishness. I look at the situations and circumstances, consumed with pain, sin, and hatred. You graciously listen to me grumble. Your words and questions stop me in my tracks. What is it to you, mortal? Where were you, when I created the earth? I am humbled by your thoughts and realize I do not know the big picture or the purpose. I forgot I was created by joy and for joy. I was created to have a relationship with you. Thank you for listening while I puke out the crap and for calling me back to you. You love me. I am yours.
We enter your sacred prayer space, seeking new life. You reveal to us that to gain life, we must first lose our lives. We fear these transitions–the unknown that comes from letting go of what we know or what we can control. You draw near, meeting us in the seclusion of our fears and doubts. Life-giving Spirit falls upon us, and we feel your peaceful presence.