Almighty, merciful, and gracious God,
We thank you for yet another opportunity we have to come together in fellowship in You. We thank you for this place of refuge and for this church family, whom you’ve gathered by the Holy Spirit, to receive your gifts this morning. To receive forgiveness and new life in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
Lord,
Whether we are filled with small doubts or, at times, what seems like hopelessness, cause us to hold fast to Christ and His promises, that sure and steadfast anchor of our souls. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope in Christ Jesus, for the Lord promises, and He is faithful.
Lord Jesus,
Where we are restless and anxious, turned in on ourselves instead of outward in love, speak your peace into us, and over us. Cling to us with your words: “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
In the midst of the busyness of our lives, prompt us to pause, to be still, to hear the voice of our Savior, to savor the gift of joy we receive in reconciliation with God on account of you.
In a world that is constantly rushing, have us know that your love is patient, is not easily angered, and, by grace, keeps no record of wrong. So reach out your long arm of grace. A grace that is love that seeks us out when we have nothing to give in return.
A grace that loves us so much, that you took on flesh and entered creation as one of us, that you might save us.
Rest us in the Good News of the peace, hope, and unbounded love we have in you.
All this we pray in your mighty,
AMEN.