Opening Prayer
This is my hope. I have been called, having been loved by You, God my Father, and kept by Jesus Christ -Jude 1:1 (silent reflection) Prayer of the Bible O Lord, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O Lord, you know it altogether. You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high; I cannot attain it. -Psalm 139: 1-6 (Free expression of praise and thanksgiving to God) Confession of Sin You are the righteous God, who searches hearts and secret thoughts. -Psalm 7:9 (Time of silence for confession of sin) The Words of Jesus “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day. It is written in the Prophets, “And they will all be taught by God, “Everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to me—not that anyone has seen the Father except he who is from God; he has seen the Father. Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life. “ -John 6: 44-47 (Think deeply on these life-giving words of Jesus) Prayers for Ourselves and Others Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge. -Psalm 62:8 (Time to bring before God our own needs and the needs of others) Closing Prayer Lord God, our Father, we thank you for all the light you give us and for all your loving help in outward things as well. We come into your presence and ask you to give us your light and your constant guidance for the path we must follow. Grant that what is of heaven may be revealed on earth, that we may rejoice in the good and beautiful things you give to all people. Our Father, reveal what is of heaven, and free people from their sin and darkness so that at last they recognize your glory. Strengthen our hope for this goal. Rule and work in the hearts of many people, that through them your glory may be proclaimed to all. Amen. -Christoph Friedrich Blumhardt (1842-1919) |