Thursday, August 24, 2023

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.

In this sacred time with you, with grateful hearts, we remember how you are with us, care for us, and save us. We worship you and only you. We sing together, “Here I raise my Ebenezer. Here by Thy great help I’ve come. And I hope by Thy good pleasure.” (“Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing,” Robert Robinson, 1758).

From the four directions, we gather on shores, in parks and worship spaces, and at city halls. We are the needy–weary, sick, war-stricken, houseless, and scared. We are the privileged–wealthy, healthy, capable, and stable. Together, we are your community. You are in our midst. You invite us to remain and support each other.

Today, we invite you to reread, rest and reflect on the prayers of the past week.

Lectionary Readings for Today:
Psalm 145:8-9, 14-21
Isaiah 44:1-5
Matthew 7:7-11

Today, we invite you to reread, rest and reflect on the prayers of the past week.

Lectionary Readings for Today:
Psalm 138
Ezekiel 36:33-38
Matthew 16:5-12

Today, we invite you to reread, rest and reflect on the prayers of the past week.

Lectionary Readings for Today:
1 Kings 18:41-46
Psalm 85:8-13
Matthew 16:1-4