Prayers for Worship
Proper 11
July 22, 2012

Prayers for Worship
by David von Schlichten

Call to Worship

Leader: Jesus has great compassion on us, because we are like sheep without a shepherd. He teaches us many things and heals us.
People: Triune God, instruct us on how to show Christlike compassion to others.
Leader: Jesus is our cornerstone.
People: We are built together spiritually into a dwelling place for God. Yes!

Invocation

Lord, we exalt you for leading us, protecting us, feeding us, resurrecting us. Open us anew to your guidance, that we may assist you in shepherding others with lovingkindess. In the name of Christ we pray. Amen.

Prayer of Confession

God, your heart breaks with love for us, yet we wander away from you. Although we are citizens under your rule, we live as if we were our own rulers. You call us, but we do not follow. We scatter your flock, such as when someone is being abused and we do nothing because we do not want to get involved.

By the blood of the Lamb, forgive us. By your Spirit, revive our dedication to following your voice. Amen.

Words of Assurance

Alleluia! God has led you through Death Valley. The Lamb washes away your sins. You shall dwell in God’s house forevermore. Alleluia!

Prayer of Inspiration

Righteousness Spirit, through this sermon, enlarge our compassion.

Prayers of the People

God of Jeremiah, your Church astounds us. You have dazzled us with extraordinary apostles, including Mary Magdalene and James. Merciful Lord, (congregational response: your rod and staff comfort us.).

Source of Euphony, we marvel at the magnificent musicians of the Church, including Bach, Schuetz, and Handel. Extraordinary! Merciful Lord, . . .

Mother of the Ephesians, we are ever grateful for our nation, humanity, and the splendor of the rest of creation. Continue to tutor us on showing greater tenderness for one another. Merciful Lord, . . .

Healer, you forever show us compassion. Heal all those in need [Add names]. Guide us on how to care for others while also caring for ourselves. Merciful Lord, . . .

(You may add other praises and petitions here...)

Through Christ, transform these small steps, these prayers, into giant leaps. Amen.

Offertory Prayer

Monarch of All, we offer you this gold for your glory and the healing of those in need.

Benediction

Leader: God, our shepherd, building, and parent, has led us and fed us.
People: In the name of the Father, Son, and Spirit, we enter the week to share holy compassion. Yes!

(from www.goodpreacher.com/blog/)