You restore us in new lands, with new opportunities. We bring our faith, skills, and abilities. We lay them before you. Choose us for your service, so we will live long in the land you have promised us, and be a blessing to you and your creation.
We confess we have not always listened to your guides and prophets. Loving Yahweh, thank you for the guides, prophets, and Elders who point us to you. Your love never fails; you long for a relationship with us. Thank you for removing our sins and for restoring us and for times of refreshment that come from spending time with you.
We enter your sacred prayer space, accustomed to seeing the world through human eyes. But you draw near and invite us to look beyond worldly logic, to the truth of who you are, what you are capable of, and what we are capable of when we step in faith with you. You begin to restore our vision, so we can see your truth.
We give thanks for the Elders you have placed in our lives, who follow your guidance and also guide us. Be with the future generations. Give them wise Elders to also guide them back to you.
We take comfort in your reassuring voice, reminding us not to be afraid, because you are with us. Thank you for bringing us home to you. We feel your loving embrace restoring us
We gather behind closed doors, hoping you will draw near to us. Our eyes are tempted towards the threats, storms, and chaos that surround us. Though you draw near, we struggle to believe it is you. But you bring us hope, as you remind us of how you have been with us and our ancestors. Your stories restore us.
Today, we invite you to reread, rest and reflect on the prayers of the past week.
Lectionary Readings for Today:
Psalm 4
Luke 22:24-30
Acts 3:1-10
Give us confidence, so we will believe without seeing. Give us courage to worship you before all the nations. Give us faith to keep our eyes on you. Be our Great Conductor, so we will play beautiful music with you.
Almighty, loving Yahweh, you keep your word and honour your covenant of love. We have sinned; we have not listened to you. We humbly confess. Thank you for looking upon us in favour and hearing our cries and prayers. Thank you for listening to us.
How precious is your affection for us, O LORD. We dwell in your sacred prayer space. Your praise is on our lips when we fall into sleep and when we awaken. You are in our hearts and minds at all times. You meet all of our needs; we want for nothing.