Prayer: Father in heaven, we thank you and praise you today because you are good and kind, a God full of mercy and grace and one that calls people out of darkness into your marvelous light. We thank you for giving us all that we need in this life. You have clothed us and fed us. You have granted us, families and friends. You have given us a church where we gather and worship you and fellowship with our brothers and sisters. You have given us many good things in this life. Yet, as fallen creatures, we often misuse your good gifts. Instead of being content with what you provide us, we complain and clamor for more. Instead of using your gifts for the sake of your Kingdom, we use them to build our own. Forgive us, Father. Please remind us how blessed we are and make us truly thankful for your kindness.
We pray for your church that your Son died to redeem. We pray that you would purify her and sanctify her and make her as holy as possible for sinners. We pray for unity and peace within her and strength and grace for her ministers. We ask that you make her useful salt and light in a dark and dying world. Please give them a hunger and thirst for righteousness and a passion for those who are facing a tragic eternity. As we look forward to another Lord’s Day, we ask that you would grant to her a hunger to praise you and hear from you as your Word is read and proclaimed. Please be gracious to her and give her all that she needs we pray through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Scripture Meditation: Matt. 6:19-34; Eph. 5:25-33; Matt. 5:6, 13-16; 6:33
