October 28, 2012
Prayers for Worship
by David von Schlichten
Leader: We say to God, the Three-in-One,
People: “We want to see!”
Leader: Christ, saves us by grace, opens our eyes,
People: enables us to see life and love amid death and hatred.
During our suffering, you lead us with comforting wisdom, Elohim. You open our eyes to your healing work. You are our refuge and strength, sheltering us with grace we can never earn. Continue to sharpen our focus on you, especially during times when you seem absent. In the name of the Way, the Truth, and the Life we pray. Amen.
Mother, we all have sinned and fallen short of your glory. We try to justify ourselves instead of relying on your justifying grace. When we suffer, we are quick to blame you, and when we prosper, we are slow to give you credit. We obsess over our sorrow and so become blind to the Joy.
For the sake of the Mighty Fortress High Priest, forgive us. Save us. Shine on us. Yes.
Alleluia, because of Christ the Priest, the kingdom is ours forever! The Savior has snatched you from darkness, justified you by grace through faith. God forgives and forgets all your sins. Alleluia!
Holy Spirit, through the Word, show us the Liberation-Truth.
God of Righteousness, we are in awe of your amazing grace. You, Mighty Fortress, have justified us by grace through faith, have saved us from sin, death, and the devil despite our unworthiness. Alleluia! Thank you! Lord of the sheaves, (congregational response: you lead us to joy.).
Abba, we give thanks for the Church, past, future, and present. We praise you for the Church’s extraordinary diversity. Continue to bless Roman Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox Christians around the world. Lead us to improve our ability to work together. Lord of the sheaves, . . .
Ima, we exalt you for creation, including our nation. We are in awe of humanity’s gorgeous and fascinating diversity. Continue to teach us how to wage peace, especially in the Middle East. Teach us to be responsible stewards. Lord of the sheaves, . . .
Adonai, the election is fast approaching. (We can’t wait for all the campaign ads to be done!) Please guide our nation in the proper political direction. Lord of the sheaves, . . .
Reforming God, we are ever grateful for your healing power. Heal everyone in need, including those we mention. [Add names]. Embolden us to help with the healing. Lord of the sheaves, . . .
Elohim of Life, we thank you for the fun of Halloween and the hope of Reformation Day and All Saints Day. During this time of year, when we focus on our mortality and your invincible saving grace, help us always to remember that, even when all seems lost, you are carrying us, guiding our eyes, feeding us. Lord of the sheaves, . . .
(You may add other praises and petitions here...)
These prayers we entrust to the Great High Priest on whose name we pray. Amen.
Accept this portion of our harvest, that it may be a blessing to those in need.
Leader: The Almighty, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, has led you, saved you by grace, and opened your eyes, so go and share.
People: Because of Christ, the kingdom is ours forever. Alleluia!
(from www.goodpreacher.com/blog/)