Point Betsy, Michigan
Opening Prayer Our Father in heaven, teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom -Psalm 90:12 (silent reflection) Prayer of the Bible But the Lord sits enthroned forever; he has established his throne for justice, and he judges the world with righteousness; he judges the peoples with uprightness. The Lord is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you. Sing praises to the Lord, who sits enthroned in Zion! Tell among the peoples his deeds! -Psalm 9: 7-11 (Free expression of praise and thanksgiving to God) Confession of Sin Mighty and loving God, we confess that we are captive to sin and cannot free ourselves. We seek our own way. We divide the body of Christ. In Your mercy, cleanse us and heal us. Let the words of our mouths, the thoughts of our hearts, and everything that we do be filled with faith, hope, and love. Amen. -Lutheran Liturgy, Confessional Prayer (Time of silence for confession of sin) The Words of Jesus Eight days later, his disciples were inside again, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side. Do not disbelieve, but believe.” Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” -John 20:26-29 (Think deeply on these life-giving words of Jesus) Prayers for Ourselves and Others God, whom I serve with my whole heart in preaching the gospel of his Son, is my witness how constantly I remember you in my prayers at all times …. -Romans 1:9-10 (Time to bring before God our own needs and the needs of others) Closing Prayer Gracious Father, we pray to you for your holy catholic Church. Fill it with your truth. Keep it in your peace. Where it is corrupt, reform it. Where it is in error, correct it. Where it is right, defend it. Where it is in want, provide for it. Where it is divided, reunite it, for the sake of your Son, our Lord, Jesus Christ. Amen -William Laud (1573-1645) 
Florence, Arizona
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