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<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO Lord, God of my salvation, every day I call upon you, in the morning my prayer comes before you. Incline your ear to my cry! For my soul is full of troubles, and my strength fails. Renew me each morning with your steadfast love, that I may rejoice and be glad all my days. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Living God, I confess today my deep tendency to pretend and perform. Rather than resting in the righteousness of Christ, I try to earn your favor through what I do. And when I fail to live up to your standard, I hide and pretend rather than running to the cross of Christ. In this pattern of pride and unbelief, I am weary. And so I come to you, knowing that I do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with my weakness. I have one who was tempted in every way, yet without sin. So let me draw near to the throne of grace with confidence, that I may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Strengthen me by your Spirit to live in the good of the gospel, today and always. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Jonah 1:17-2:10 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Ephesians 1:15-23 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationFather of glory, I adore you for the immeasurable greatness of your power toward us who believe. Lord Jesus, I worship you as the name above every name - the one who has all rule and authority. Holy Spirit, I honor you as the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, who reveals the glory of Christ and seals those who belong to him. Thank you, holy Trinity, for your overflowing grace and glory.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 98 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationAs I walk with you, Lord, into this very ordinary day, I look ahead to the glorious day of your kingdom. This psalm is a window into the new heavens and the new earth, when all of creation is restored and all of humanity healed. Your people will celebrate your glory forever, because in your justice, you’ll reveal, judge, and restore. Nothing has been lost that will not be found in you. Nothing has been broken that will not be healed in you. You’ll mend us completely. You’ll renew the earth. You’ll judge with righteousness and equity. So today, let me live in anticipation of your coming kingdom. Fill me with hope, ground me in grace, and let me overflow with love. Help me be fully obedient to you, that my life might display to others the beauty and goodness of your rule and reign.Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerSearch me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner. For although you have forgiven my sin, I have not forgiven those who sin against me. Inwardly, I harbor bitterness, resentment, and anger. Lift my eyes to your cross, Lord Jesus, that in remembrance of your salvation I would be freed from all resentment. Moreover, purify my thoughts and protect me from biting, sarcastic words. Help me to love and forgive others as you have loved and forgiven me, to the glory of your name. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Proverbs 9 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: 1 Peter 5:1-11 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationGod of all grace: I worship you because you have called me to your eternal glory in Christ. I long for the day when you will restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish your people. To you be dominion forever and ever! &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 74 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationGod: this Psalm captures the tension of living in the now and the not yet. On the one hand, it seems that your enemies have the upper hand; your people are opposed and oppressed, and your foes scoff at your name. On the other hand, I know that you have fixed the boundaries of the earth; yours is the day, and yours is the night; you are sovereign over all. So as I attend to what’s before me today, help me learn to live in this tension. Give me strength to live in a broken world, standing for what’s right, working for good, fighting against temptation, and pushing back darkness. And give me hope in your coming kingdom, that I might rejoice in your victory and not lose heart. Have regard for your covenant, and remember your people today.Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerLord God Almighty: open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law. Open my ears, that I may tremble at your Word. Open my lips, that my mouth may declare your praise. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation. For you I wait all the day long. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Glorious God: I confess today the great sin of Pride. I have thought too highly of myself. I have spoken boastfully, loved selfishly, and lived independently. Forgive me, and conquer my pride through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, who humbled himself to the point of death. Make me humble like him, that I might bear his image more faithfully. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 55 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: 1 Peter 3:8-22 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationLord Jesus, I worship you in your humiliation and your exaltation. You suffered for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that you might bring us to God. Now, you are at the right hand of the Father, with angels, authorities, and powers being subjected to you. I adore you for your humility and for your victory. &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 66 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationO Lord: This psalm reminds me that the day is coming when all the earth will worship you. So today, make my life an offering of worship to you. Let me not cherish sin in my heart. If I am harboring sin or protecting idolatry, show me, and bring me to my knees in repentance. Let me perform my vows to you and be faithful to the promises I’ve made. Thank you that in spite of my weakness and fickleness, you have not rejected my prayer or removed your steadfast love from me. When I am faithless, you remain faithful. My hope today is not in my own strength, but in the power of your steadfast love. So fill me with your Holy Spirit today, and give me the grace to walk with you faithfully and worship you wholeheartedly. Amen.Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO Lord, you have searched me and known me. You know my thoughts before I think them. You know my words before I speak them. You know my past, my present, and my future. Awaken me now, to seek you while you may be found, to call upon you while you are near, and to live a life that brings glory to your name. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Almighty God: I cannot keep silent about my sin; when I do, my bones waste away and your hand is heavy upon me. So I will acknowledge my sin to you, and I will not cover my iniquity. Today, I acknowledge the sin of ENTITLEMENT. I live with a demanding spirit that grabs, clutches, and expects, rather than with a generous spirit that thanks you and blesses others. Forgive me, O Lord, by the mercy of Jesus, who did not regard equality with you as something to be grasped, but emptied himself that I might be filled. Fill me up today with the freedom and joy of grace, for Your name’s sake: Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Hosea 11 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: 1 Peter 2:13-25 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationLord Jesus, I adore you because you suffered for me, leaving me an example, that I might follow in your steps. Thank you for the beauty of your obedience. When reviled, you did not revile in return; when you suffered, you did not threaten. I adore you for bearing our sins in your body on the cross, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness.&nbsp; &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 148 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationGod, the Psalmist calls everything around him to praise you. And indeed, you are worthy of extravagant praise! As I ponder this Psalm, I am convicted of my tepid praise; of my half-hearted worship; of my timidity to call the world to praise you. So today, awaken a hunger in me to praise you more deeply. And awaken courage in me, that I might unashamedly call others to join in praising you. The fact is, the world around me is FULL of praise; it’s just that people are praising the wrong things. They are exalting the creation over the Creator, and delighting in the gift rather than enjoying the Giver. Everyone praises something. So let me praise YOU today, with all of my being; let me lead your people to praise you, through my enthusiastic worship on the Lord’s Day; and let me invite the world to praise you as I boldly proclaim the good news of salvation in Jesus Christ.Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO Lord, you have said, “Seek my face.” My heart says to you, “Your face, Lord, do I seek.” Do not hide your face from me. Do not turn me away in anger. Teach me your ways, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Lord Jesus, I confess to you the shallowness of my repentance. I am content to deal with surface sins, rather than exploring the dark contours of my inner being. I am content to offer words of repentance, rather than bringing forth the fruit of repentance. Humble me greatly today. Reveal to me the depth of my depravity and the strength of my idolatry, that I may drink more deeply of your mercy and delight more fully in the beauty of Jesus Christ my Savior. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Daniel 12 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: 1 Peter 1:3-25 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationLord Jesus, I worship you for your resurrection. In your victory, the powers of death have been defeated. And now nothing is outside of your rule; everything has been put under your feet. As I await the consummation of your promises, I ground all of my hope, my security, and my joy on the sure foundation of your resurrection. &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 113 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationLord, teach me to praise you with the same joyful exuberance expressed in this psalm. Enlarge my capacity to see you, admire you, enjoy you, and celebrate you. I praise you that you are seated on high, looking down on the heavens and the earth; this image reminds me of your glory and majesty. And yet at the same time, you raise the poor from the dust and the needy from the ash heap; this image reminds me of your closeness and your personal care for each one of your people. You are both transcendent and immanent; exalted and humble; majestic and merciful. I don’t have to choose between a God who is high and exalted, or a God who is present and active; you are both, and you always have been. Today, I walk into the world confident of both your loving care for me and your majestic sovereignty over everything. From the rising of the sun to its setting, may your name be praised - and may my life bring glory to you.Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Holy God: Dust I am, and to dust I shall return. I am like a flower of the field, that appears for a little while and then vanishes. But I confess my tendency to live days, weeks, even months at a time with little thought for my mortality, and little consideration for eternity. Forgive my presumption and self-reliance. Humble me to the dust, that I might be ever-mindful of my frailty, and freshly awed by your eternal, infinite beauty. Through Christ, our Lord: Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Jeremiah 31:1-14 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: 1 John 5 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationGOD: thank you that you have given us eternal life in your Son. I adore you as the one who is True - indeed, as Truth itself. There is no truth outside of you, no life apart from you, and no other way of salvation. I worship you - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.&nbsp; &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 30 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationGod: this Psalm is a great reminder that all sorrow is temporary. “Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.” This world is full of sorrow and pain; yet joy is guaranteed for your people, and it is coming as surely as the sun rises! So fill me with anticipation for the new heavens and the new earth. And in the midst of my current sorrows and hardships, remind me that you already HAVE turned my mourning into dancing. Jesus Christ has risen from the dead and called me to himself. Therefore, I am clothed with the gladness of salvation even in the midst of the sadness and trials of this earthly life. So today, whatever my circumstances, fill me with the joy of the Lord. Let me not be numb to the sadness and sorrow of life on earth; but let the joy of the Holy Spirit outweigh the burdens and concerns I carry. Fill me with gladness today, and let me be a source of gladness to others.Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO Lord, God of my salvation, every day I call upon you, in the morning my prayer comes before you. Incline your ear to my cry! For my soul is full of troubles, and my strength fails. Renew me each morning with your steadfast love, that I may rejoice and be glad all my days. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Merciful Father, I come into your presence with deep gratitude, for I am no longer under the law but under grace. Resting in that truth, I freely confess my brokenness and my weakness before you. Instead of worshiping you, I have put myself at the center of my life. Instead of honoring others, I have withheld words of blessing and spoken words of harm. Have mercy on me, for Jesus' sake. By your Holy Spirit, awaken in me today passionate worship, joyful obedience, and wholehearted love for others. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 35 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: 1 John 4:7-21 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationFather: thank you for sending your Son to be the Savior of the world. And thank you for giving us your Spirit. I worship you for your great love, which you have made manifest by sending your only Son into the world to be the propitiation for our sins.&nbsp; &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 22:19-31 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationO God: do not be far off. Come quickly to my aid. As I read this psalm, awaken in me a deeper longing for communion with you. You see my anxieties; you understand my concerns; you invite me to pour out my heart before you. So I bring to you now the needs and concerns of this day. I place them before you and ask you to intervene in each situation and to fill me with wisdom in each interaction. When I reflect on my life, I see your hand continually preserving me and providing for me. But it’s not enough to remember these things in private. I’ll praise you in the great congregation, joining with your people to tell stories of your faithfulness. And I’ll pray for the day when “all the ends of the earth turn to the Lord, and all the families of the nations worship before you.” Hasten that day, O God, through the proclamation of the gospel to the ends of the earth.Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerSearch me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace O Lord, you promise to work all things for my good, Yet I confess that instead of delighting in your grace, I find reasons to be unhappy. I have filled my life with busyness and scheduled myself into exhaustion. I have been quick to judge others and slow to forgive them. Open my eyes to Your glory which is all around me, and to Your love which is smiling through all things. Renew in me a sense of wonder in You and your good creation. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Ezekiel 37:15-28 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: 1 John 2:28-3:24 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationO God, what kind of love is this, that we should be called children of God? Thank you that you abide in us, by the Spirit you have given us. Thank you for your great love for us, which flows out of us toward one another.&nbsp; &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 11 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationGod, this Psalm speaks honestly about the reality of evil. There really are wicked people in the world - and in my life - who “bend the bow… to shoot at the upright in heart.” It’s easy to feel like no one sees; like no one cares about what is right or good. But your eyes see. You hate the wicked, and you love the righteous. You promise that the upright shall behold your face. So today, let me take refuge in you from the evil around me; and let me walk before you in integrity and righteousness. Let me not return evil for evil or insult for insult; but let me love my enemies and bless those who curse me. You see all things with perfect clarity. So let me live for your approval on the last day, with an eye toward pleasing you and bringing you glory.Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerLord God Almighty: open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law. Open my ears, that I may tremble at your Word. Open my lips, that my mouth may declare your praise. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation. For you I wait all the day long. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Almighty God, I confess today my worry and anxiety. Instead of resting in your sovereignty, I fear the unknown. Instead of bringing my requests before you in prayer, I worry and fret. Instead of letting you be God, I fight for control. Forgive me, O Lord. Help me to seek first your kingdom and your righteousness. Set me free from all anxious thoughts today. Give me contentment and peace, for you have assured me that if I seek your kingdom, I will not lack any good thing. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Ezekiel 37:1-14 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: 1 John 1:1-2:2 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationGod: I adore you because you are Light, and in you there is no darkness. Thank you for the blood of Jesus, which cleanses us from all sin. And thank you that you are faithful to forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness when we confess our sin to you. &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 2 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationOh Lord, the nations rage today just as they did when this Psalm was written. Empires and kingdoms rise and fall. Rulers plot evil against your people, as they have always done. Thank you for the reminder that you laugh at the plans of the wicked. You have set King Jesus on Zion, your holy hill, and you have given the nations as his heritage. Nothing will hinder or thwart the spread of his rule and reign. I rest today in your strong sovereignty over all things. I do not know what trials may come my way, but I know who holds the future. You have established your kingdom forever, and someday you will judge the world in righteousness. So today, may I serve you with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Amen.&nbsp; Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO Lord, you have searched me and known me. You know my thoughts before I think them. You know my words before I speak them. You know my past, my present, and my future. Awaken me now, to seek you while you may be found, to call upon you while you are near, and to live a life that brings glory to your name. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace God of majesty and light, all of creation testifies to your glory. Though your law is perfect, I have disobeyed. Though your revelation is true, I have disbelieved. Though your commandments are pure, I have not trusted you. Forgive me, O Lord, for my willful sin and for my hidden faults. Preserve me with your mighty power this day, that I may not fall into temptation. Straighten my path, and give me wisdom to discern your will, that you might be glorified in everything. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 25 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:35-58 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationLord Jesus, I adore you, for because of your resurrection, my labor is not in vain. Death has been swallowed up in victory; and mortality has given way to immortality. As the Last Adam, you have inaugurated the new creation, removing the sting of death, the rot of decay, and the power of the grave! Thanks be to God. &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 141 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationLord, I am reminded by this Psalm that prayer is worship. My prayer is like incense, rising up to you with a fragrant aroma. You are pleased by my dependence upon you. So today, give ear to my voice. With the Psalmist, I ask you to “set a guard over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips.” I know how often I am tempted to sin with my words. So today, let my speech be gracious. Even when others provoke me and speak evil of me, let me pray against their evil deeds rather than retaliating in sinful ways. “Let the wicked fall into their own nets, while I pass by safely.” Give me the courage and faith to let YOU be God, trusting you as my vindicator and protector. Like my Savior, let me return blessing for cursing, and let me pray for my enemies who persecute me. In this way, may I please you and help your kingdom come “on earth as it is in heaven.”Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO Lord, you have said, “Seek my face.” My heart says to you, “Your face, Lord, do I seek.” Do not hide your face from me. Do not turn me away in anger. Teach me your ways, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Almighty God: I confess with the Psalmist that your law is perfect. The way of your commandments is the way of life; your statutes are full of wisdom. Yet I have violated your law; I have broken your commandments; I have dishonored your name. I ask your forgiveness; and I thank you for sending Jesus, who perfectly obeyed your law and died for my sin so that I might live to righteousness. By Your grace, fill me with Your Spirit, that I might walk in wholehearted obedience to you. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: 2 Kings 13:14-25 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:1-28 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationLord Jesus, I worship you for your resurrection. In your victory, the powers of death have been defeated. And now nothing is outside of your rule; everything has been put under your feet. As I await the consummation of your promises, I ground all of my hope, my security, and my joy on the sure foundation of your resurrection. &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 93 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationAlmighty God, this Psalm celebrates your kingly rule over everything. You are robed in majesty and strength; your throne is established from of old. It brings me great peace today to know that you reign and rule over everything - because this means you reign and rule over my life, and over the events and responsibilities that concern me today. All of creation has been established by your powerful word, and all things hold together in you. So as I go about my day today, help me act and live as a citizen of your kingdom. Help me trust your reign in situations and circumstances I can’t control; and help me extend your kingly rule in all areas which are under my dominion. I cannot do everything, because I am not you; but I can do something, because you are with me. By your Spirit, set me free from worry, stress, and fear; and help me be faithful to your kingdom purposes in my little corner of the world. Amen.Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Glorious God: I come to you now in need of grace. Throughout this week, a war has been raging in my heart. I find myself looking to people, situations, and experiences to give me security, identity, and hope. I have sought from others what can only be found in you. Forgive me, and awaken me to the only glory that really satisfies: the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ, my Savior and Redeemer. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: 2 Kings 4:18-37 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Acts 28:11-31 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationAlmighty God: thank you for sending your salvation to the Gentiles. Thank you that the kingdom of God is going forward as your people proclaim the Lord Jesus Christ. Some will be convinced, and others will disbelieve; and you are sovereign in all of it! &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 77 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationFather: thank you for Psalms that help me reach out to you in days of trouble. Like the Psalmist, I have known what it’s like to spend the night filled with anxiety about the future, or mulling over events from long past. And like the Psalmist, my deepest doubts often have to do with you: Has your steadfast love ceased? Have your promises come to an end? Am I beyond the reach of your grace? Your word comforts me, because it reminds me that these sorts of questions don’t threaten you. Your love embraces me even in the midst of my doubt and turmoil. My questions don’t change what is true; they don’t pull you down from your throne or erase your history of faithfulness to your people. Thank you for your acts of deliverance in time and space and history - the Exodus from Egypt, the parting of the Red Sea, the incarnation of Jesus Christ. You are not a concept or an idea - you are the God of history, who acts to redeem your people. So today, ground me in the narrative of Scripture, that I might be strengthened as I remember both your acts and your promises. You are the same yesterday, today, and forever - and for that, I give you praise.&nbsp;&nbsp;Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO Lord, God of my salvation, every day I call upon you, in the morning my prayer comes before you. Incline your ear to my cry! For my soul is full of troubles, and my strength fails. Renew me each morning with your steadfast love, that I may rejoice and be glad all my days. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Father, for your steadfast love, I bless you. For your abundant grace, I praise you. For your daily mercies, I trust you. I ask your forgiveness today for my willful lack of love. I have ignored those less capable than me; I have resented those who have wounded me; I have withdrawn from those who are inconvenient and difficult. By Your Spirit, overcome my sin and weakness, and fill me with overflowing love, through the mercy of Jesus Christ my Savior. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: 2 Kings 4:1-17 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Acts 17:16-31 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationLiving God, I adore you because you don’t need anything. You made the world and everything in it. You give to all men life, and breath, and everything. You are not unknown, hidden, and vague; in Jesus, you have revealed your character and your salvation. Thank you for assuring us of your promises by raising Jesus from the dead. &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 56 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationBe gracious to me, dear Lord, at the start of a new day. Your word reminds me that you are near to the suffering and the oppressed, that you are FOR your people when trouble is near. I don’t know if I’ll face this kind of danger today, but I pray these words in solidarity with my brothers and sisters around the world who will. I also pray this psalm to prepare my soul, so that when suffering comes, I may instinctively turn to you. Thank you that in Jesus, I can confidently say: “This I know, that God is for me.” What a liberating thought! No matter what trial and trouble may come my way, in you I will trust, and not be afraid. Prepare me now for every challenge I will face today, and help me love you with every part of my being.Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerSearch me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Lord Jesus, all authority in heaven and earth has been given to you. I confess that I have neglected your command to make disciples. I have been content to keep the light of your gospel hidden. I have valued my comfort over your kingdom, my security over your power, and my reputation over your glory. Forgive me Lord, for my unbelief in the power of your Gospel and for my lack of faith in your promises. Jesus, ignite my desire for your coming kingdom, that my faith would be renewed and my hope strengthened. Let your light shine in me that others may see my good works and glorify you. Amen.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: 2 Kings 2 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Acts 16:16-40 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationGod: I adore you for your marvelous providence. You have promised to work all things together for the good of those who love you. In every circumstance, you are at work fulfilling your wise purposes. Thank you that I can trust you in everything.&nbsp; &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 14 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationO God: this Psalm reminds me of the pervasiveness of sin. As you look down on the children of man, there is none who seeks you. There is none who does good - and that includes me. There is none who understand - and that includes me. My only hope - OUR only hope - is for you to come and deliver us from our foolishness, our blindness, and our corruption. And in Jesus, you have done just that. So help me delight in my helplessness and glory in your full deliverance. Forgive me for imagining that I contributed anything to my salvation. Left to myself, I would say with the fools: “There is no God.” So thank you for not leaving me to myself!Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerLord God Almighty: open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law. Open my ears, that I may tremble at your Word. Open my lips, that my mouth may declare your praise. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation. For you I wait all the day long. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Almighty God, in whom we live and move and have our being, you have made us for yourself, so that our hearts are restless until they rest in you. Yet in my foolishness I have not trusted you, nor rested in my election as your beloved child. I confess my unbelief. Lord, grant me purity of heart and strength of purpose. Let no selfish passion hinder me from knowing your will, nor weakness from doing your will. In your light may I see light, and in your service find perfect freedom; through Jesus Christ our Lord.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Ezekiel 36:22-38 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Acts 16:1-15 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationHoly Spirit, I praise you for your glorious work of opening hearts to the good news of Jesus. You convict, soften, and awaken, bringing new birth and new life. Thank you for applying redemption to the hearts of men and women. &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 9 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationO Lord: this Psalm reminds me that you “sit enthroned forever.” You are the rightful king over all creation - and over my life. So in this quiet moment of prayer, I bow my knee before you and submit myself to you. In any places of my life where I am resisting your rule, please convict me and move me to repentance. And help me today, in all I do, to make your invisible kingdom visible. There are rival kings and rival kingdoms all around me; let me not give them my allegiance. My own heart is prone to wander from your love; keep me steady and steadfast. And help me embrace the tension of living in the “already” and the “not yet,” praying and working so that your kingdom might come, and your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO Lord, you have searched me and known me. You know my thoughts before I think them. You know my words before I speak them. You know my past, my present, and my future. Awaken me now, to seek you while you may be found, to call upon you while you are near, and to live a life that brings glory to your name. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace God of Truth: I confess today the sin of Dishonesty. Rather than walking in the light, I have walked in darkness. My mind has conceived deceit, my lips have uttered falsehood, my heart has been cold toward the truth. In your mercy, forgive me. And remind me that because Jesus died for me, I need not be ashamed, but can freely admit all my faults and failures. My hope is not in my own goodness, but in your mercy to me through Jesus Christ. By Your Spirit, help me speak truth and walk in light today. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: 1 Kings 17:8-24 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Acts 11:1-18 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationGod, I glorify you, for you are capable of far more than I ask or imagine. In the fullness of time, you made known the mystery of salvation planned from long ago - that not only Israel, but the Gentiles are fellow heirs of your gracious promises! Thank you for granting to ALL your chosen people the repentance that leads to life. &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 108 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationOh Lord, this psalm reminds me that your steadfast love reaches to the heavens. Your faithfulness is so expansive and all-encompassing that it reaches the clouds. Sometimes this statement brings me joy, but often it feels more abstract than real; something I know intellectually but don’t easily experience. So give me the lively, wide-awake heart of David as I meditate on you. Give me the inner vitality to respond joyfully to your love and your promises. As I have opportunity today, let me lift my voice to sing to you. Worship restores the health of my soul, so give me grace to sing your praises as long as I live. Amen.&nbsp;&nbsp;Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO Lord, you have said, “Seek my face.” My heart says to you, “Your face, Lord, do I seek.” Do not hide your face from me. Do not turn me away in anger. Teach me your ways, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Lord God, although I have been raised with Christ, I have failed to put to death the sin in my heart. I have become complacent and self-satisfied. I have willfully ignored the sin that lingers in my life. Of this I repent and ask for your mercy. Direct me, O Lord, in all my doings with your gracious favor, and further me with your continual help; that in all my works begun, continued, and ended in you, I may glorify your holy Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: 1 Samuel 2:1b-10 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Acts 10:34-48 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationGod: I adore you because you show no partiality. Anyone and everyone who believes in Jesus receives forgiveness of sins through his name. Thank you that you are pursuing people in every tribe, tongue, and nation, through the proclamation of the gospel and the gift of the Holy Spirit.&nbsp; &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 91 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationLord, you are my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust. This Psalm promises that you will deliver me from evil. And yet, this is also the very Psalm that Satan used to tempt Jesus, urging him to throw himself down from the temple, because “angels will bear you up.” So today Lord, let me rest in this Psalm as Jesus did - confident of my final vindication, but aware that in this world I will have trouble. Help me not to put you to the test by making demands of you. Instead, let me rest in the good of the gospel, confident in the promise of eternal life. Let me hold fast to you in love, as my Savior did. Amen.Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Living God, I confess today my deep tendency to pretend and perform. Rather than resting in the righteousness of Christ, I try to earn your favor through what I do. And when I fail to live up to your standard, I hide and pretend rather than running to the cross of Christ. In this pattern of pride and unbelief, I am weary. And so I come to you, knowing that I do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with my weakness. I have one who was tempted in every way, yet without sin. So let me draw near to the throne of grace with confidence, that I may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Strengthen me by your Spirit to live in the good of the gospel, today and always. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: 1 Samuel 1:1-20 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Acts 9:32-43 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationI adore you, O God, for your power over suffering, illness, and death. Your son Jesus performed signs and wonders in his earthly ministry; so he continues to do through his disciples. I rejoice that you are not limited by human frailty, human doubt, and human sin, but continue to accomplish your purposes by your word and Spirit. &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 60 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationLord, this Psalm reflects the paradox of life with you. On the one hand, “You have made your people see hard things.” My life has not been smooth, and even today I face situations that are confusing and challenging. On the other hand, “With God we shall do valiantly; it is he who will tread down our foes.” The final victory has already been won, and I am assured of eternal peace and joy in your presence. So today, keep me from both despair and naivete. Help me live in the paradox, bringing my challenges and hardships before you in prayer, and remembering the certainty of your final victory.&nbsp;Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO Lord, God of my salvation, every day I call upon you, in the morning my prayer comes before you. Incline your ear to my cry! For my soul is full of troubles, and my strength fails. Renew me each morning with your steadfast love, that I may rejoice and be glad all my days. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner. For although you have forgiven my sin, I have not forgiven those who sin against me. Inwardly, I harbor bitterness, resentment, and anger. Lift my eyes to your cross, Lord Jesus, that in remembrance of your salvation I would be freed from all resentment. Moreover, purify my thoughts and protect me from biting, sarcastic words. Help me to love and forgive others as you have loved and forgiven me, to the glory of your name. Amen.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Deuteronomy 32:28-47 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Acts 9:1-31 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationGOD, I praise you for the miracle of the new birth, which turns murderers into missionaries. Thank you for making sinners your chosen instruments. Thank you that your church continues even today to multiply and be built up, walking in the fear of the Lord and the comfort of the Holy Spirit. &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 55 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationO Lord, this psalm reminds me that you are my refuge when people let me down. The Psalmist speaks of betrayal by a close friend - and I, too, have experienced that sort of relational pain. It hurts, God! Thank you that when others are faithless, you are faithful. When there is injustice and violence around me, you will not let the guilty go unpunished. You see, you know, you take notice. And you will not permit the righteous to be moved. So by your Spirit, help me to take stock of my own heart, and confess any sin that is present there. Where I have betrayed others, let me seek forgiveness. Where my words have been like drawn swords, let me be the first to repent. And then, help me to cast my relational burdens on you. Thank you that through Jesus, you reconcile sinners to yourself and to one another. May I trust you as the judge of all things. Amen.&nbsp;Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerSearch me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Glorious God: I confess today the great sin of Pride. I have thought too highly of myself. I have spoken boastfully, loved selfishly, and lived independently. Forgive me, and conquer my pride through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, who humbled himself to the point of death. Make me humble like him, that I might bear his image more faithfully. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Deuteronomy 32:1-27 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Acts 8:26-40 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationFather, thank you for the good news of Jesus, which fulfills the law and the prophets. By the proclamation of your word, you continue to bring sinners around the world to repentance and faith. I worship you as the Lord of every people, tribe, and nation.&nbsp; &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 7 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationO Lord God: the world is full of hardship and sometimes even brutality. Many of your people face opposition and suffering. Arise and defend them, O Lord. With the Psalmist, I look for the day when you return to judge the earth once and for all, shielding your people from harm and driving oppression away. Even now, I know that you judge the peoples; no act of evil goes unaccounted for, and all will be brought to judgment on the last day. This Psalm says that you “feel indignation every day.” I thank you for that truth, and I worship you as the defender and protector of your people. This Psalm also says that you test minds and hearts. So help me to reckon seriously with your righteous judgement, and to keep a repentant heart toward you. Remove all wickedness from my life, and give me clean hands and a pure heart. Amen.&nbsp;Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerLord God Almighty: open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law. Open my ears, that I may tremble at your Word. Open my lips, that my mouth may declare your praise. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation. For you I wait all the day long. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Almighty God: I confess that I often honor you with my lips while my heart is far from you. I am content to appear righteous instead of truly being righteous. I repent of my sin and my self-love. Please search my heart, examine my motives, and forgive my faults. Awaken me to your glory, and send your Spirit to renew and change my heart. Help me to hear your voice today above the clamor of this world, and follow only you. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 12 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Acts 7:35-60 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationLord, I adore you, for you see and know your people. Even in death, those who belong to you cannot be separated from you. Thank you for the witness of the martyrs, who spread the seed of your church as they give their lives for you. &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 4 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationO Lord: Reading the psalms teaches me to pray like David, with a holy insistence that you hear me and answer! When your transcendence makes you seem unapproachable, let me come to you with the bold insistence of a treasured child. Teach my soul to reason thus: my Father loves me, he wants my companionship, he invites my most honest prayers. I don’t have to clean myself up or figure out the perfect words to say; “the Lord has set apart the godly for himself, the Lord hears when I call to him.” So make me bold to call upon you, O Lord. Though the world is filled with all kinds of trouble, I entrust myself to you completely. I will lie down and sleep tonight in peace, for you make me dwell in safety. Amen.&nbsp;Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO Lord, you have searched me and known me. You know my thoughts before I think them. You know my words before I speak them. You know my past, my present, and my future. Awaken me now, to seek you while you may be found, to call upon you while you are near, and to live a life that brings glory to your name. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace O Lord, I acknowledge before you my sin, my wounds, and my weakness. I need your forgiveness; I need your healing; I need your strength. In Christ, you draw near to the weak and needy. You are merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. Forgive my sin, for Jesus’ sake. Heal my wounds, for Jesus’ sake. Show your strength in my weakness, for Jesus’ sake. By your Spirit, empower me today to delight in you and to obey your will, seeking your glory above all else. Amen.&nbsp;Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Job 19 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Acts 6:8-7:34 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationGod, I praise you for the great story of your salvation. From generation to generation, you have been the rock and refuge of your people. Throughout time and history, you display your covenant faithfulness. Thank you for including me in your great story of redemption. &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 150 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationLord God: this final Psalm in the Bible sums everything up with a wholehearted burst of praise. Every nation, tribe, and tongue - everything that has breath - is called to praise the Lord for his exceeding goodness. I see you, Lord, fulfilling this Psalm as you gather a people from every nation on earth. I imagine the new heavens and the new earth, restored and at rest. Let me carry this picture with me into this day, knowing that in this broken world, I’m a citizen and ambassador of the world to come. Whatever my vocation requires of me today, let me do it with joy, joining in your work of bringing healing to the world. Let the tune of your praise be always in my ear, steadily reminding me that the king is coming, and all will be made well.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO Lord, you have said, “Seek my face.” My heart says to you, “Your face, Lord, do I seek.” Do not hide your face from me. Do not turn me away in anger. Teach me your ways, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace God my Father, I confess that in my weakness and unbelief I have lived by my own strength rather than by the power of your resurrection. I admit my self-reliance, and I turn from it. By your Spirit, so draw my heart to you, so guide my mind, so fill my imagination, so control my will, that I may be wholly yours, utterly dedicated to you; and then use me as you will, for your glory and the welfare of your people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Exodus 15:1-18 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Acts 5:27-42 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationGOD: Thank you for raising Jesus from the dead and exalting him to your right hand. Thank you for sending the Holy Spirit, given freely to those who obey you. And thank you for the witness of the apostles, who rejoiced in suffering for your name.&nbsp; &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 97 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationO God: this Psalm instructs me to hate evil. Give me the grace to do so! I confess that I am often dull to the evil that lurks in my own heart; give me eyes to see it and hate it. Help me resolve to put sin to death relentlessly. Awaken in me holy longings and a deep passion for obedience. This Psalm uses the language of sowing and reaping; it says, “light is sown for the righteous, and joy for the upright in heart.” So help me sow seeds of righteousness and virtue, that I may reap their fruit in due season. Because you reign, and because you are exalted above every other God, you are worthy of my trust and obedience. Help me trust and obey you today.&nbsp;Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Merciful God: You created me in your image, with a mind to know you, a heart to love you, and a will to serve you. But my knowledge is imperfect, my love inconstant, my obedience incomplete. Day by day, I fail to grow into your likeness. I confess my failure to glorify you as you designed me to. In your tender love, forgive me by the mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ. Strengthen me by your Spirit to walk in a manner worthy of the calling I have received, for the glory of your name. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Exodus 14 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Acts 4:5-35 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationLord Jesus: I worship you for the power of your name. “There is no other name under heaven… by which we may be saved.” So today, I glory in your name; and I thank you, Holy Spirit, for filling your people and empowering them to speak the word of God with boldness.&nbsp; &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 68:19-35 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationI praise You Lord because every day, You bear me up. Thank you for carrying me, guiding me, and walking beside me. Looking back on my life, I see your faithful care and redemptive power everywhere. Looking ahead, let me rest in the assurance that as you have borne me up, you will continue to sustain me. You are the God of my salvation, redeeming my soul, and daily transforming me into your likeness. I pray today for the Christians around me: make them fully alive to you, celebrating your goodness and singing your praise. Let all your people be filled with joy today. And as I work, let me rest in the knowledge that You bear me up, so that I might worship wholeheartedly with all Your people.&nbsp;Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO Lord, God of my salvation, every day I call upon you, in the morning my prayer comes before you. Incline your ear to my cry! For my soul is full of troubles, and my strength fails. Renew me each morning with your steadfast love, that I may rejoice and be glad all my days. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Merciful Father, although you have promised me everlasting joy, I confess that I am often lazy, apathetic, and hard-hearted. Deliver me, O God, from a slothful mind, from all lukewarmness, and all dejection of spirit. I know these cannot but deaden my love to you; mercifully free my heart from them, and give me a lively, zealous, active, and cheerful spirit; that I may vigorously perform whatever you command, thankfully suffer whatever you choose for me, and be ardent to obey your holy love in all things.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Exodsu 4:18-31 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Acts 3:11-26 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationGod of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob: thank you for glorifying your servant Jesus by raising him from the dead. Thank you that all the prophets foretold the suffering of Jesus. And thank you that you will send Him again to restore all things.&nbsp; &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 68:1-18 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationOh Lord, this psalm is an anthem to your power, your justice, and your omnipotent rule. I confess that I am nervous about power. I’ve seen it used so selfishly by human leaders that it’s hard to imagine power being used only for righteousness and justice and goodness. But that’s exactly how you use your divine power. You are the father of the fatherless; the protector of widows; the liberator of prisoners. This Psalm says that “you ascended on high, leading a host of captives in your train” - and the New Testament applies this to Jesus’ victory over all the powers of darkness! So today, glorious God, I will rejoice in your power. Awaken my soul with the beauty of this psalm and its images. Remind me of your great victory, and the power you give to me through your Holy Spirit. Remind that I’m a worker in your kingdom, and you are a mighty and glorious king. Let me meditate on your character today, so that I might worship you with all my heart.Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerSearch me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Eternal God, my fear and my unbelief run deep. While I may outwardly confess your salvation, inwardly I deny the power of your Gospel. I work to keep up appearances, but I neglect the weightier matters of the law: justice, mercy and faithfulness. I confess my sin, and I thank you that according to your steadfast love, you have forgiven me through the precious blood of Jesus Christ. Direct my path, Lord, that I may walk in repentance and humility before you and others. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Exodus 4:1-17 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Acts 2:22-47 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationGod, I adore you for piercing the hearts of men by the proclamation of your word. Your gospel - the spoken message of salvation - is powerful to stir souls and to call sinners from death to life. Thank you for the power and efficacy of your word. &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 52 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationThank you, Lord, that your steadfast love endures. It endures regardless of the destructive plots of the evil one. It endures amidst exploitation and greed. It endures in the face of violence and deceit. I see the darkness of the world around me - and it is dark indeed - but I will trust in the steadfast love of the Lord forever. Today, as I encounter evil and wickedness, give me the blessing of perspective. Help me remember that the righteous will have the last laugh! And help me remember that righteousness grows over time. This Psalm gives the image of a green olive tree in the house of the Lord, deep-rooted and strong. Make me like that tree, Oh Lord. Deepen my righteousness day by day as I walk in obedience to you. Shower me with the gracious influence of your Holy Spirit. I reach upward to you, grateful for the light of your love. Amen.Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerLord God Almighty: open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law. Open my ears, that I may tremble at your Word. Open my lips, that my mouth may declare your praise. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation. For you I wait all the day long. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Gracious and merciful God: I confess to you today my lack of faith. You have saved me by grace, yet still I try to earn your favor by my works. You have met my deepest need in Christ, yet still I doubt your fatherly care. You have given me your Spirit, yet still I walk according to the flesh. Forgive my lack of faith, and strengthen me by your grace, that I may walk with you in freedom, joy, and worship. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Exodus 3 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Acts 1 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationFather, I worship you for your sovereign control of history. You know when the kingdom will be restored; you have fixed the times and seasons and it is not mine to know. Thank you for the power you have given me through your Spirit to witness to Jesus. &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 16 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationO God, today I live as an exile in a world that offers me all kinds of counterfeit pleasures. Which is why I need to set you always before me. Your word reminds me that in YOUR presence is fullness of joy, and at your right hand are pleasures forever.&nbsp; So please give me grace today to chase after you, rather than after the enticements of the world. You’re the portion my hungry soul needs. As I do today’s work, help me set you always before me, so that I might walk in the path of life. Regardless of my circumstances, let me be filled with joy because of your lovingkindness.&nbsp;Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO Lord, you have searched me and known me. You know my thoughts before I think them. You know my words before I speak them. You know my past, my present, and my future. Awaken me now, to seek you while you may be found, to call upon you while you are near, and to live a life that brings glory to your name. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Father, I come before you this day with a humble and contrite heart, which you will not despise. Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions. Against you, you only, have I sinned, and done what is evil in your sight. Wash me, that I may be whiter than snow. Create in me a clean heart, and renew in me a right spirit. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and give me a willing spirit to sustain me. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Genesis 22:1-18 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: John 20:11-31 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationJesus, my Lord and my God: I adore you because you are the Christ, the Son of God. You are alive, you are vindicated, you are triumphant in your victory. Thank you that you have given me life in your name. &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 140 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationO God: your Word is so refreshing, because it speaks so plainly of good and evil, of righteousness and wickedness. In a world where everything seems relative, your Word is an anchor and a compass. Today I pray with the Psalmist: “Grant not, O Lord, the desires of the wicked!” I know that all around me, whether I see them or not, there are evil people planning acts of deviance and disobedience. I know that many of these plans will hurt innocent people and contribute to the decay of civil society. And so I pray: “Let their mischief overwhelm them! Let evil hunt down the violent man speedily!” Bring back their plans on their own heads, and protect the innocent and vulnerable from their schemes. Let me be aware of any way my own life might further evil in the world - and let me turn from it. May I be an agent of good and not evil; of righteousness and not wickedness - for Your name’s sake.Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO Lord, you have said, “Seek my face.” My heart says to you, “Your face, Lord, do I seek.” Do not hide your face from me. Do not turn me away in anger. Teach me your ways, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Merciful God, I confess that I have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what I have done, and by what I have left undone. I have not loved you with my whole heart; I have not loved my neighbor as myself. In your mercy, forgive what I have been, help me amend what I am, and direct what I shall be, so that I may delight in your will and walk in your ways, for the glory of your holy name. Through Jesus Christ our Lord: Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Genesis 15 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Romans 6:3-14 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationO God: I adore you for your mercy as I remember my baptism. Thank you for uniting me to Jesus in his death and resurrection; and thank you for sealing your promise to me with the waters of baptism. I praise you that I am no longer a slave to sin!&nbsp; &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 114 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationGod: this psalm reminds me that you are my protector and leader. You took your people out of a strange land where they were oppressed, and gave them a sanctuary and a home. But even that home was temporary! Today, your people throughout the world remain a people in exile, awaiting our final home. So when I feel out of place, help me remember that this is normal. This world is not my home. Help me live here with purpose; but let me never be fully assimilated. May I follow the example of Daniel and his companions as I live out my exile here: working for the good of my temporary home, praying for its peace and seeking its flourishing... but maintaining wise dissent in the face of its pressures to conform. Remind me that I’m a sojourner; awaken my longing for the new heavens and the new earth. Help me live today in ways that anticipate the arrival of your future kingdom.&nbsp;Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace O Lord, I confess that my heart is restless. I have sought comfort and security in created things rather than in you, the Creator. I have suppressed the truth in unrighteousness and exchanged Your glory for lesser things. Forgive my sin, O God, and subdue my restless heart. By your Spirit, strengthen me today for greater obedience to you, greater delight in your goodness, greater trust in your promises. Help me to rest in my adoption as your child. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Genesis 9:1-17 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Colossians 3:1-17 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationFather, I adore you, for you have united me to your Son. I share in his death, resurrection and life. I share in his kindness, humility, love, and peace. Thank you that my life is hidden with Christ and I will one day appear with him in glory.&nbsp; &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 105:23-45 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationLord, this psalm and many others resound with the call to remember. With the psalmist we look back at your extraordinary work to liberate your people, bringing them out of slavery and into abundance so that they could walk freely according to your ways. You were the fire to protect them at night and the cloud to shield them during the day. You sent them daily bread and provided streams of water in unlikely places. Yet your people couldn’t fulfill the purpose of their freedom: to walk with you. I’m one of these people. I look at my history and see that even the hard times were marked by your presence and mitigated by your care. Long stretches of ordinary life show signs of your mercy. And yet, I wander. I need the faithful obedience of Jesus to cover my indifference, my rebellion, my faithlessness. Thank you that as you provided for the needs of your people in the desert, you have provided for every one of my failures with the perfect obedience of your son. Give me grace today to celebrate your beautiful provision and walk in the freedom of your ways. Amen.&nbsp;Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO Lord, God of my salvation, every day I call upon you, in the morning my prayer comes before you. Incline your ear to my cry! For my soul is full of troubles, and my strength fails. Renew me each morning with your steadfast love, that I may rejoice and be glad all my days. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace O Lord of heaven and earth, remember me, cold of heart and impure, in your Kingdom. Deliver me from every ignorance and heedlessness, from pettiness of the soul and stony hardness of heart. O Lord, save me from temptation; receive me in repentance; grant me pure thoughts; that I may love You with all my heart and soul and that I may obey your will in all things to the glory of your name. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Genesis 8:6-18 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Luke 24:1-35 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationJesus, I worship you for your self-revelation. Without your Spirit, I am spiritually blind, but by your power and grace, my eyes have been opened. Thank you for revealing yourself that I may know you, follow you, and love you.&nbsp; &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 105:1-22 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationDear God, your word perpetually calls me to remember your faithfulness. Give me the clarity and capacity to think about my past in light of your loving presence. Help me meditate on all the wonderful things you have done for me. As the psalm describes your faithfulness to Israel, I remember your presence and care for me as well. You never forget your people, but you remember your covenant with us continually. As I turn my attention to the work of this day, help me to seek your presence continually. Help me not to forget the ways you’ve drawn me to yourself, the times you’ve provided for my needs, the constant generosity with which you’ve protected me and shown me your goodness.&nbsp; Let my heart - and the hearts of all who seek you today - rejoice.&nbsp;Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerSearch me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Merciful God, I confess before you that I have sinned. I have sinned in what I have thought and said; in the wrong I have done and in the good I have not done. I have sinned in ignorance; I have sinned in weakness; I have sinned through my own deliberate fault. I repent and turn to you. Forgive me, for the sake of my merciful Savior Jesus. By your Spirit, transform my desires, renew my affections, and strengthen my obedience, for the glory of your name.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Genesis 7:1-18 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Matthew 28:1-15 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationLord Jesus, thank you for the glory of your resurrection. Salvation is at hand; the curse is broken; and the renewal of all things is near. I worship you for your victory over sin and death and Hell! &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 58 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationHeavenly Father: I long for you to establish your righteousness on the earth. This psalm acknowledges the reality of structural sin. Sometimes, the human leaders who are supposed to ensure justice on earth devise wrongs and deal out violence instead. I ask that you not let me be disheartened by this. Keep me from growing cynical toward all human leaders, or skeptical of every institution. Instead, move me to prayer. With the psalmist, I ask that you would hinder and disrupt the plans of the wicked. Fill my imagination with visions of how I can live righteously in my little corner of the world, trusting that my obedience is not unnoticed by you. Give me wisdom and creativity as I look for ways to enact justice. Help me see and care for the poor and needy; help me encourage the weak and faint-hearted; and help me walk in personal integrity today. May your kingdom come in my world and in my life.&nbsp;&nbsp;Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerLord God Almighty: open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law. Open my ears, that I may tremble at your Word. Open my lips, that my mouth may declare your praise. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation. For you I wait all the day long. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Lord Jesus Christ: with great hope in the power of your resurrection, I acknowledge my sin before you. I have sinned in thought, word, and deed, by what I have done, and by what I have left undone. I have not loved you with my whole heart; I have not loved my neighbor as myself. Forgive my sin, O merciful Savior. Cleanse my heart with your renewing grace, that my love may be perfected and my obedience made complete, for your glory and my good: Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Genesis 1:1-2:7 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Mark 16:1-13 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationEternal, triumphant, risen Lord Jesus: the tomb is empty! I adore you for your vindication from your enemies, your power over sin, and your victory over the grave. You are great, and glorious! &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 35 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationO Lord, in this psalm, David prays for you to defend him, contending with those who contend against him. He feels the disorienting pain of betrayal; though he has sought the good of others, they have turned on him in malice and deceit. I, too, have experienced the betrayal of friends; I, too, cry out to you for vindication. But more importantly, I allow this psalm to point me to the Lord Jesus Christ. He was betrayed by his friends; he was accused by false witnesses. I thank you, Lord Jesus, for your humble obedience. And I ask you, as the King of Kings, to contend with the enemies of your kingdom. When your people are unjustly accused, defend them. When they are pursued, protect them. When they are in danger of harm, deliver them. Rise to our help, reminding us that you are our salvation. Then we will rejoice in your salvation and thank you for your steadfast love.Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO Lord, you have searched me and known me. You know my thoughts before I think them. You know my words before I speak them. You know my past, my present, and my future. Awaken me now, to seek you while you may be found, to call upon you while you are near, and to live a life that brings glory to your name. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Lord Jesus: on this day, I confess my lack of joy. Your resurrection has changed the world! It is the most joyful news in all of history! Yet I remain Stoic or even despondent, not allowing the joy of the resurrection to permeate my disposition. Forgive me, Lord Jesus. Help me to rejoice! Especially today, as I prepare for worship on Easter Sunday, fill my heart with joy and life and my body with exuberant gladness. Let my joy be contagious, and my gratitude evident, through the grace of your Holy Spirit: Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Job 14:1-14 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Matthew 27:57-66 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationLord Jesus: I praise you for the quiet anticipation of this day. Death could not hold you, sin could not defeat you, Sheol could not contain you. I adore you as the one who tasted death for me. &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 31 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationLord Jesus: how unsurprising that the words you spoke from the cross were the words of Scripture. The Scriptures were your life; let them be mine as well. This Psalm concludes, “Be strong, and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord!” As I wait for Easter Sunday tomorrow, let my heart take courage. And remind me that in one way, all of life is Holy Saturday. We are always looking back and looking forward. So let me anticipate the new heavens and the new earth in the same way I anticipate the morning. Let the joy of Easter Sunday remind me of the eternal joy that awaits all who hope in you. Amen.Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO Lord, you have said, “Seek my face.” My heart says to you, “Your face, Lord, do I seek.” Do not hide your face from me. Do not turn me away in anger. Teach me your ways, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Lord Jesus: it is the day of your death. And on this day, I confess that I was complicit in your murder. It was my sin that nailed your hands to the cross; my wickedness that pressed the thorns into your brow; my pride that stabbed the spear into your side. I cried out for your crucifixion; I mocked and spit upon you. Yet it was for me that you said, “Father, forgive them;” it was for me that you said, “It is finished.” With the thief on the cross I see your great love, and I plead, “Remember me when you come into your kingdom.” It is I, not you, who deserve condemnation. Forgive my great sin, and receive me through your mercy. Amen.&nbsp;Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 52:13-53:12 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Mark 15:21-41 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationLord Jesus: in the shame, scorn, and humiliation of the cross, I adore you. There you hang, mocked, beaten, reviled, and abandoned; and yet beautiful. What wondrous love is this, that caused the Lord of bliss to bear the dreadful curse for my soul? &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 22 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationLord Jesus: this Psalm, more than any other, foretells your death. All those who saw you mocked you, wagging their heads and saying, “he trusts in God; let God deliver him.” But Father: you DIDN’T deliver your son. He was poured out like water. His bones went out of joint. His heart melted like wax. His clothes were divided. His hands and feet were pierced. And all of this, so that the offspring of Israel might stand in awe of him, and all the ends of the earth might turn to him. I will gaze on Jesus’ suffering in my heart today, remembering that he suffered for me. Amen.&nbsp;Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Lord Jesus: on this Maundy Thursday, I confess my abandonment of you. Like your disciples who fled in fear, I too have turned my back on you. I have been ashamed to associate with you and unwilling to bear your name courageously before others. I have failed to stand up for what’s right, and I have gone along with the ways of the world. Forgive me, Lord Jesus. In the Last Supper, I see you inviting fearful disciples into fellowship with you, through the cup that represents your costly sacrifice. In this, I know you welcome even me to your Table. And so I come, confident of your forgiveness. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 50 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: John 18:1-19:16 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationLord Jesus: I adore you for the agony you endured on my behalf. Who can understand the depth of your suffering? I close my mouth in silence and bow my knee in worship. &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 116 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationLord Jesus: as I read this psalm, I hear it as though coming from your lips, and takes on fuller and deeper meaning. The Father DID hear your pleas for mercy. He DID free your soul from the snares of death. And because the Father did these things for you, I KNOW he will do them for me. “What shall I render to the Lord for all his benefits to me? I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord.” Let me lift high your salvation today, and let me call on you for help - for in so doing, I honor you.&nbsp;Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO Lord, God of my salvation, every day I call upon you, in the morning my prayer comes before you. Incline your ear to my cry! For my soul is full of troubles, and my strength fails. Renew me each morning with your steadfast love, that I may rejoice and be glad all my days. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace O Lord: at the midpoint of this Holy Week, I admit my weariness. Like your disciples who fell asleep in the hour of prayer, I find myself lulled to sleep by the cares of life. Rather than being alert and ready for worship and prayer, I am slothful and slow of heart. Let my weakness remind me that it is you alone that I need. You were alone in the garden; you were alone on the cross; and it is in you alone that I find redemption. So let my weakness drive me to you for strength, and let my weariness remind me of your abundant grace for all the weak and weary. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Exodus 12:1-14 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Mark 14:1-42 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationLord Jesus: you have given me your broken body that my hunger would be filled. You have poured out your blood that my sin would be forgiven. In your death, I am made alive. Thank you for laying down your life so that I could have life. &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 70 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationLord Jesus: the Psalms were your prayer book, and you doubtless prayed these words as you suffered for me. Your own people delighted as you were brought low. The same crowds that cheered for you days before encouraged Pilate to crucify you. In my own life, I’m like those people. I’ve called myself a follower of yours, but I deny you with my sin. Thank you, Lord Jesus, for bearing the shame and rejection that I deserved. Give me new allegiance to you as I take up citizenship in your kingdom and identify myself with you. Give me greater confidence in being associated with you, and may your name be always on my lips and your praise always on my tongue. Amen.Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerSearch me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Almighty God, as I enter Holy Week, I admit the depth of my distraction. Deep worship comes through deep reflection… but my soul is shallow. I am distracted and worried about many things. My soul lacks the peace and rest to meditate deeply on your cross. Thank you that you died for even this - your sacrifice covers even my weakness in pondering your sacrifice! By Your Spirit, increase my capacity for wonder, rest, and worship, as I set aside these moments to reflect on your Word. Through Jesus Christ, my Savior: Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 49:1-7 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Hebrews 4:14-5:9 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationJesus, I adore you today as one who deals gently with the weak. You sympathize with my weaknesses, and you welcome me to draw near to find mercy and grace in my time of need. With confident humility, I draw near to you as my merciful high priest! &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 71 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationO God: as I hear the words of this Psalm, I imagine them on the lips of Jesus as he journeyed toward the cross. The sorrow and distress expressed in this psalm anticipates what he must have experienced in the days before his death. I confess my tendency to avoid suffering and pain; I’m prone to ignore sadness and lament. But this is not the way of Jesus. He was acquainted with sorrow and grief, and never more than when he approached his death. When I’m tempted to acknowledge his suffering intellectually, and not engage it with my soul, I invite you to slow me down, orient my heart, and help me feel. Increase my sensitivity to my own sin, and to the dullness of my affections. And in those times when I labor under an oversized burden of guilt, remind me that Jesus has lifted my burden and I am free. Today, O God, be not far from me; make haste to help me. Let your Spirit work deeply in me, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerLord God Almighty: open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law. Open my ears, that I may tremble at your Word. Open my lips, that my mouth may declare your praise. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation. For you I wait all the day long. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Father: as I enter Holy Week, I confess the weakness of my love for the Lord Jesus Christ. This is the week of his death and resurrection; a week that changed the world forever; yet I confess that to me, it feels like just another Monday morning. Through your Word, your Spirit, and your people, awaken my cold heart and stir my affections for Christ. Let me enter this week with the eyes of my heart wide open to the beauty and glory of my Savior’s love for me.&nbsp;Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 42:1-9 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Hebrews 9:11-22 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationLord Jesus, I praise you for offering yourself without blemish as a sacrifice for sin through the eternal Holy Spirit. I adore you for the eternal redemption you secured through your blood. Thank you for purifying my conscience from dead works, that I might serve the living God. &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 36 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationLord God: I praise you today for your steadfast love, displayed most fully in the gift of your Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. This Psalm uses language of feasting to describe the joy of those who find fellowship with you. It also speaks plainly of the reality of evil - of those whose hearts are given to wickedness and sin. I want to be instructed by both images: motivated to turn away from sin, and drawn toward the river of your delights. So today, make your steadfast love real to me. As I think on Jesus’ death and resurrection, help me see the great wickedness of sin with fresh clarity, and help me turn from it decisively. Give me eyes to see also the greatness of your love for me in Christ, and let me be moved to worship and awe. “In your light, we see light” - so let the darkness of Good Friday and the bright light of Easter Sunday illumine my vision this week. Let me see all of reality through the lens of the cross and resurrection.&nbsp;Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO Lord, you have searched me and known me. You know my thoughts before I think them. You know my words before I speak them. You know my past, my present, and my future. Awaken me now, to seek you while you may be found, to call upon you while you are near, and to live a life that brings glory to your name. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Merciful Father, I come before you today not in penitent fear but in repentant faith. Because you have raised me up with Christ, I now humble myself before you. I confess that I have been proud, attempting to live an autonomous life and believing the lie of self-sufficiency. I have avoided Jesus by treasuring other things more than you and your kingdom. Have mercy on me today, O Lord my God, and empower me for greater trust, submission, and obedience, through Christ my Savior: Amen.&nbsp;&nbsp;Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Jeremiah 31:31-40 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: Luke 19:28-44 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationBlessed are you, Lord Jesus! I honor you as Israel’s true ruler; I worship you as the sovereign King of all creation; and I submit to you as my Lord. May all glory, majesty, and honor be yours.&nbsp; &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 118 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationO God: this is the day that you have made; I will rejoice and be glad in it! With the vast company of your people through all time, I rejoice in your steadfast love. Thank you that you are on my side, that you answer me and set me free. When I feel pressed by temptation today, I’ll call on you for help. When I feel weary with my work today, I’ll proclaim that You are my strength. When I must fight for joy today, I’ll remember to sing the glad songs of salvation. I thank you Lord, for Jesus, the stone that the builders rejected. In his death, he became the cornerstone, so that I could be joined with him as a stone in the house of God. Fill me with awe and worship of Jesus today, that by His power I might speak with boldness, live with integrity, and stand firm in every temptation.&nbsp;Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO Lord, you have said, “Seek my face.” My heart says to you, “Your face, Lord, do I seek.” Do not hide your face from me. Do not turn me away in anger. Teach me your ways, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Holy Spirit of God: I confess today my neglect of you. I am not yielded to your influence as I ought to be. I walk in the flesh rather than in the Spirit, and as a result I bear the fruit of the flesh rather than the fruit of the Spirit. Gracious Holy Spirit, forgive my sin and overcome my weakness. Subdue my restless heart and overwhelm me with your presence, that I might hear your voice clearly, yield to your control eagerly, and bear your fruit consistently. Through Christ, our Lord: Amen.&nbsp;Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Ecclesiastes 12 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: John 17 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationLord Jesus: thank you for drawing me into union with yourself. The Father is in you; and you are in the Father; and I am in you. In some mysterious way I have been drawn into the very delight and communion of the Trinity; and in this mystery I bow my knee in reverent worship.&nbsp; &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 90 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationLord: teach me to number my days. With this Psalm ringing in my ears, I reflect on your power and permanence, contrasted with my small and temporary nature. You, Lord, are an everlasting dwelling place. I’m like the grass that springs up and then fades. So teach me to value each of the days that you’ve given me. Satisfy my restless soul with the deep knowledge that because you are from everlasting to everlasting, I have an eternal hope. Give me the grace to do today’s work with a sense of meaning and purpose, AND with a sense of humility and self-forgetfulness. In one sense, what I do won’t last; it’s fleeting and temporary. And yet in another sense, all my work done in you will last forever, because it’s an act of worship to You. So today, establish the work of my hands, O God. And satisfy me with your steadfast love, that I may rejoice and be glad all my days.&nbsp;Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace God of mercy, whose Son, Jesus Christ, beckons me with the wide embrace of his love: I confess that I have been a wayward child. I have disobeyed your commands; I have been deaf to your call; I have been cold to your love. In thought, word, and deed, I have hurt others and dishonored your name. In your great mercy, receive me again as your beloved child, not because I am worthy, but for the sake of Jesus, who loved me and gave himself for me.&nbsp;Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Ecclesiastes 11 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: John 16:16-33 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationLord Jesus, I worship you for the hope of what is to come. The day is coming when sorrow will be turned to gladness, when mourning will be turned to rejoicing, and when all that is hidden will be revealed. You have overcome the world; in just a little while, we will see you, and our joy will be full.&nbsp; &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 79 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationO Lord, I lament with the Psalmist over the destruction of Jerusalem. As it was in his day, so it is in ours. Your people are hard-pressed on every side. Enemies of the cross taunt and mock us, saying, “Where is their God?” Christians throughout the world experience oppression and persecution. In times like these, we need you to ground us deeply in your word, so that we might respond faithfully when hard times come. So today, “let your compassion come speedily to meet us.” Help us remember Jesus, who endured great suffering on our behalf, and who has prepared great glory yet to be revealed. I know that someday you will make all things right, and I pray for patience and endurance until that day comes. Give me power, in my own small corner of the world, to see and relieve the suffering of others, and so reflect your lovingkindness. Be near to all your beloved ones who suffer today. Amen.Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO Lord, God of my salvation, every day I call upon you, in the morning my prayer comes before you. Incline your ear to my cry! For my soul is full of troubles, and my strength fails. Renew me each morning with your steadfast love, that I may rejoice and be glad all my days. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Heavenly Father, I enter this day full of thanksgiving, because you have redeemed my life by your mercy and grace. I worship you for such a great salvation even as I come to you in repentance. Hear my confession, Father. Forgive me for under-believing your gospel and over-believing my worries. Forgive me for being slow to listen and quick to judgement. Forgive me for failing to love you and your church. Have mercy on me, Lord, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.&nbsp;Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Ecclesiastes 10 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: John 15:1-17 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationChrist Jesus, I adore you as the vine, in whom I have life and bear fruit. Apart from you I can do nothing. Thank you that as the Father has loved you, you have loved me. &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 43 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationI thank you, Lord, for this prayer, which speaks hope the downcast. Perhaps my own soul is downcast today; and even if I am not, I know those who are. So I ask you today to send out your light and your truth. The truth is, you look at your children with love, regardless of whether we feel acceptable to you, because in Christ we’re clean, whole, and welcome. Your lovingkindness is deeper than the turmoil within us. Even our discouragement can’t separate us from your love. Even our mourning can’t dim the light of your presence. So today, I say with the psalmist: “Why are you downcast, O my soul? Hope in God, for I shall again praise him.” For myself and for all your people who are downcast: bring us to your altar, and remind us that YOU are our exceeding joy.Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerSearch me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Lord God, in Christ you have adopted me as your beloved child. But I confess that deep inside my soul I doubt your love for me. Instead of being satisfied in your acceptance, I look for acceptance elsewhere. Instead of resting in your love, I am restless with fear, control, and worry. Forgive my lack of trust in your promises. Forgive my doubt of your great love. Let your perfect love cast out all fear, and free me to glorify and enjoy you fully. In Jesus’ name. Amen.&nbsp;Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 43 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: John 14:1-14 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationLord Jesus, I worship you as the way, the truth, and the life. You are the fulfillment of my longings and the end of my wanderings. Thank you that in knowing you, I have come to know the Father.&nbsp; &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 39 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationOh Lord, I often forget that my days are short. My inner life is marked by a deep self-absorption, so that my pursuits, my goals, and my problems take over my thinking. This self-focus seems empowering, but in reality it’s a heavy burden. Your word reminds me that I’m not the star of my own show; instead, I’m a sojourner on the road to meet you. My life is a breath and my time on earth is fleeting. So help me make every day count for your glory. Fill me with purpose and help me give myself to your cause and your kingdom. Draw me into deeper communion with you, so that as I number my days, I find greater satisfaction in you. Deliver me from fruitless, burdensome self-absorption today. Hear my prayer and transform me, day by day, into the likeness of your son. Amen.&nbsp;&nbsp;Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerLord God Almighty: open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law. Open my ears, that I may tremble at your Word. Open my lips, that my mouth may declare your praise. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation. For you I wait all the day long. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Holy Spirit: because of my union with Christ, you dwell within me. Yet I confess that I still live according to the flesh. I do not live in conscious dependence upon you. I do not walk in vital communion with you. I am self-reliant and self-trusting, more defined by this age than by the age to come. Forgive me, Gracious Father, for neglecting the gift of your Spirit. Today, fill me afresh with the Spirit’s presence. Revive my soul. Renew my zeal. Release your power in me, for the glory of Your name.&nbsp;&nbsp;Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Lamentations 5 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: John 13:1-30 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationJesus, I adore you as the Suffering Servant. Thank you for your marvelous humility, even on the night of your betrayal. I humbly receive your cleansing, and ask for the grace to serve others as you have served me.&nbsp; &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 26 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationO Lord, this psalm draws a sharp contrast between the righteous and the wicked. And I want to be righteous. I want to walk in integrity, and trust you without wavering. Yet I know that I fall short of this intention. So I thank you, Lord Jesus, that your absolute obedience, your perfect wholeness, and your complete righteousness have covered my shame and guilt like a royal garment. Because you have made me holy by grace, I can strive for holiness with my whole being. So today, when I’m tempted by falsehood or hypocrisy, help me remember your love and choose integrity. When I’m tempted toward ingratitude or selfishness, help me remember your mercy and choose thankfulness. Place my foot on level ground. Deepen my longing for your house and for your presence. Remind me that I stand with a great assembly of your people all around the world who honor you and bless your name.&nbsp;Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;

<figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp; Opening PrayerO Lord, you have searched me and known me. You know my thoughts before I think them. You know my words before I speak them. You know my past, my present, and my future. Awaken me now, to seek you while you may be found, to call upon you while you are near, and to live a life that brings glory to your name. &nbsp; Confession of Sin &amp; Prayer for Grace Almighty God: you have commanded me to love my neighbor as myself. But today, as I contemplate my lack of love, I am humbled to the dust. Too often, I avoid others when they bother me. I ignore others when they don’t interest me. I use others when they benefit me. I reject others when they sin against me. My love is shallow and self-serving. Forgive me, O God. Thank you that in Christ, you have loved me with a love incomprehensible. May your love fill me, and transform me, for the glory of your name. Amen.Pause to confess specifically any sins the Holy Spirit may be convicting you about. &nbsp; Old Testament Reading: Ecclesiastes 9 &nbsp; The Lord’s PrayerOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name.&nbsp;Thy kingdom come.&nbsp;Thy will be done,&nbsp;on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.&nbsp;And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation,&nbsp;but deliver us from evil.&nbsp;For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory,&nbsp;forever. Amen. &nbsp; New Testament Reading: John 12:20-36 &nbsp; Prayer of AdorationChrist Jesus, I praise you as my guide who goes before me and my redeemer who saves me. Following you means following you into death, yet gaining eternal life. I bow before you as your humble servant, and I honor you as the conquering Son of God.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; Psalm Reading: Psalm 130 &nbsp; Prayer of ConsecrationLord, thank you for the reminder that waiting is part of worship. The Psalmist writes: “my soul waits for the Lord, and in his word I hope.” So much of life with you is waiting. And though I wish your word gave answers for everything, the fact is that it doesn’t. Rather, it gives me a reason to hope, and it reveals the character of the one in WHOM I hope. I don’t know what challenges may come today, or what I may be called to suffer. But I do know that I’m not alone. Thank you for listening to my cry for mercy. Thank you that for all those who hope in Christ, you don’t mark iniquities. I wait for you, O Lord, watching for your mercy like a scout watching for the sun to rise. My soul waits for you today, and in your word I hope.&nbsp;Take time now specifically to intercede for yourself, your neighbors, your church, your city, and the world, bringing your needs and the needs of others before the Lord. &nbsp; BENEDICTIONAnd now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return. &nbsp; <figure class=" sqs-block-image-figure intrinsic " > &nbsp;