Wednesday, August 30, 2023

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

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.

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.

We have not dealt honourably with creation and others. Search our hearts; create in us clean hearts. Renew your right spirit within us. Cast us not away from your presence in your fields and vineyards. We will praise you all of our days.

Deal with us ever so gently as the winds blow and the waters surge. Our human bodies are fragile and cannot last except by your merciful love. Give us faith to believe you have already guaranteed our passage and presence into your glory.

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