Saturday, September 2, 2023

You have called us out of our conditions. You redeemed us; you removed us from certain destruction. Instead, you placed us on high mountains to once again look upon the vast landscape you promised to us. We see the desolation of those who have chosen to not follow your guidance, but we also see your blessings stretching beyond the horizons. Your love is amazing!

We enter your sacred prayer space clothed in the armour of your light. You greet us with a loving embrace. Life-giving Spirit breathes into and around us. We become aware of your desires for us.

Do not forsake us, LORD. You have always been with us, in times of trial and in times of peace. Tried as we are, today we believe. Speak, so we can hear you; remain in your hope and help; and sojourn in a good way.

We gather in your abundant fields and vineyards. We rejoice as we harvest together. Your word to us is clear–to share our abundance with others. We desire to respond to your call with all our being. The Intruder tells us to withhold from those who we would consider our enemies and to lash out in vengeance. But you tell us to extend patience and love.

We gather at Ebenezer, your Stone of Help. We are fully transparent before you. You see us for who we are. You see what we try to hide. You see what is within us. We are alabaster jars filled with your gifts and abilities, waiting to be poured out.

We enter your sacred prayer space with gratitude for all you have done for us. You promise to prosper and not harm us. We feel hardship in our daily journey, yet your rains fall softly upon our fields in your perfect timing. In our fear and doubt, we withhold from you and others what we can share. You remind us to not put off until tomorrow what we can generously give to others today.