“Until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:13)

How long are we to persevere?  Until we reach the prize.  When will that be?  When Christ returns.  The question we ought to ask is, “How may I serve You today?”  We ought to keep our eye on the prize of the One who has established this eternal relationship with us and live into His image.  Do you not know that being conformed to the image of Christ is the goal for which we strive in faith?

Lord, clear my mind so that I may focus my attention upon You and be guided by You through that comes my way and is according to Your will.  Lead me in the goodness of Your mercy so that I may now and always be led by what is right and fitting.  Help me to not be led astray, but to be guided by You, Your mercy, and the goodness of the grace You have given me.  Lift me up to become like You.

Lord Jesus, You have come into the world so that I may have life and have it abundantly.  You are the One who makes my faith possible and You are the One to whom I am to be conformed.  Lead me, O Lord, in the way of truth in order that I would be guided by You alone in the hope of eternal life which You have given me through Your grace.  Let me know what I may do today as I move toward that goal.  Amen.

“And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-12)

Each person is uniquely created, yet all bear the image of God.  We each have our purpose, yet it is for the whole that we live.  Do not walk the broad road of living for yourself, but the narrow road of living into the life the Lord gives through grace.  Live into your purpose and know that the Lord of all will guide you and keep you on that road which leads to the place where you are complete.

Lord, grant that I would have a heart that is satisfied in Thee.  Lead me away from the anxiety of this world and into the life You promise.  Help me to become who You are making me to be.  Lead me according to Your never-failing promises to look to You as the source of all being.  You have wonderfully created each one of us.  Help me become whom You are making me to be.

Lord Jesus, You have come into the world so that through You we may have life and have it abundantly.  Guide me this day to see all the ways in which I can live out this life of faith that You have given knowing that in You alone is all hope.  Guide me to do good and walk toward a right future.  You have equipped me, now help me work, with all that You have given me to work with, for the glory of God.  Amen.

“(Now this expression, “He ascended,” what does it mean except that He also had descended into the lower parts of the earth?  He who descended is Himself also He who ascended far above all the heavens, so that He might fill all things) (Ephesians 4:9-10).

Scripture clearly says over and over who Jesus is.  Only He who descended can ascend and He may take with Him whom He will.  Is this exactly the way it is done?  The Lord knows.  What is important for us to know is that we look to the One who has done this and through whom we have all hope.  Be guided by Him and look to Jesus so that He may abide with you and you with Him now and forever.

Lord there are many mysteries and there are those who will seek to fully understand what is Yours alone to understand.  Help me to instead focus upon You who Has come so that all who turn to You would be lifted up with You into eternity.  Guide me this day, O Lord, so that I would humbly walk in the way You have established and walk the path You have set before me.

Lord Jesus, You have descended so that all who turn to You and believe would not perish, but have everlasting life.  Guide me this day and every day which You give me to humbly walk in Your presence and live according to the direction of the Spirit which You have breathed on us.  Help me to learn to always abide in You as You abide in me and to rejoice in the promise and hope of life that You give.  Amen.

“But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift.  Therefore it says, “When He ascended on high, He led a host of captives, And He gave gifts to men.”  (Ephesians 4:7-8)

You alone are Lord of all and You will give what You will give.  We are not to argue, for of what value is that?  We are to look, listen, learn, and obey.  The world does not do these things, but you, person of faith, you have been given the promise.  What will you do with what God has given you?  Will you be one of the captives, going with Jesus and be one who knows that He has given good gifts?

Lord, let me be one who learns from You what faithfulness means.  Let me be one who uses what You have given so that You may be lifted up by me and known to those around me.  Guide me, O Lord, in the way of truth so that I would now and forever be guided by You.  You alone are the author and finisher of the true faith.  You alone make grace possible.  You alone are the One who is trustworthy.

Lead me, Lord Jesus, through the grace You give, which is more than sufficient.  Help me now and always to see that in You alone is all hope.  In You is the future, when You will lead the captives into freedom.  Guide me, O Lord, so that I may humbly walk in Your grace and mercy.  Lead me now and always to humbly abide in You as You abide in me.  Teach me to use the gifts You have given me for the father’s glory.  Amen.

“One Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all” (Ephesians 4:4-6)

Once!  The Lord needs to do only once what needs to be done.  It is the Lord who does it.  He spoke and it has become so.  You were given the promise by God, through God, to be with God forever.  You may waiver, but He does not.  You may deny Him, but He will never deny Himself.  Trust in the One who makes all things to be as they will be.  Trust in the One whose promises never fail.

Lord, what more can I add to this?  Sadly, there are those who have come along and said, “Yes, but.”  Help me to not listen to them, but to You alone.  There is only You: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.  There is only one promise given in the one baptism.  There is only one faith, for You are One God who is in all and through all.  Lead me, O Lord, in the one faith so that I may grow in the likeness of Christ.

Lord Jesus, You have come that we may have life and have it abundantly.  Guide me, O Lord, in the true faith in order that I may learn what it means to be faithful.  Guide me so that I may grow this day and every day You give me in the way You would have me grow.  Through all things, keep my eyes upon You, my Rock and my Redeemer.  Lead me Lord Jesus to see that You are my all-in-all.  Amen.

“Being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.  There is one body and one Spirit, just as also you were called in one hope of your calling” (Ephesians 4:3-4)

Oh, how the church has ignored this admonition.  We do not preserve unity in the bond of peace.  Alas, we sinners are, well, sinners.  Yet this is the call that we should preserve unity.  Jesus did pray that we would be one, even as He and the Father are One.  The hope of our calling is even in this, Jesus will accomplish what we cannot.  He will again do for us that which we cannot do.

Lord, even in my private life, I have made such a mess of things.  Guide me, O Lord, in the way of truth so that I may now and always be guided by You.  Lead me to know that You alone are able to do all that is needed in order that we may have the life You promise.  However, give me a heart that truly seeks for unity and peace.  Lift me up in the hope of my calling, guiding me ever closer in this direction.

Lord Jesus, You have given me the words of eternal life.  You have prayed that we would be one as You are One in Trinity.  Lead me, O Lord, and do not let me take the reins.  Guide me, Lord, that I not wander in my directions.  Help me, Lord, even when I think I need no help.  In all things, keep me on the narrow path that leads to salvation and let me not stray off Your path.  Amen.

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH, 

5^th Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (March 21, 2021)

Jeremiah 31:31-34 (God promises to put his law in his peoples’ hearts)

Psalm 119:9-16 (I will delight in your statutes and meditate on your Word)

            ELW: Psalm 11:9-16 or Psalm 51:1-12, (Have mercy on me; create in me a clean heart)

Hebrews 5:1-10 (Jesus, as High Priest knows our weakness; he learned obedience through suffering and became the salvation of all who obey him)

Mark 10:32-45 (Passion prediction; “can you drink from my cup?”; those who wish to be greatest must become least; Son of man came not to be served but to serve, give his life as ransom for many)

                        ELW: John 12:20-33 (We wish to see Jesus; My hour has come; when I am lifted up I will draw all people to myself)

 THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

 Father, give us a new heart. Take away our heart of stone. Give us the only heart that can beat in us forever – the heart of your dear Son Jesus.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Put a new and right heart within your Church. Make it cling in perfect faith to Jesus, and do your will. Cleanse it from wrongful teaching and shameful deeds. By the power of your Holy Spirit, make it shine with your Son’s forgiveness, compassion and mercy.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Put a new and faithful heart in your people when they are persecuted for Jesus’ sake. Give them the joy of knowing that they indeed drink with Jesus from his cup.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

Put a new and joyful heart within this congregation. By the power of your Holy Spirit, unite us to Jesus’ death and rising. Cause us to bear much fruit in his name. And use us to draw others to his cross.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Put a new and patient heart within all who care for family members with special needs. Give them compassion, strength, and the joy of knowing that what they do for their loved one, they do for you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Put a new and wise heart within our earthly leaders, so they do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly before you. Give to all of us a desire to help our neighbors, especially those who are struggling in these difficult times. Teach us to live together in peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Put a new and steadfast heart into all who serve our country, here and abroad. Give them courage, wisdom, and competence in all they do. Strengthen and shield their loved ones. Bring them home in safety when their work is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Put a new and trustful heart into all who cry to you for help; especially: {List}. Give them the joy of your saving help; and give to all who care for them the comfort and guidance of your Holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Dear Father, we commend into your care all our beloved dead.  Put a new and faith-filled heart into each of us, who still walk the troubled pathways of this life. Give us grace to firmly believe that, as we have been buried with Christ, we shall also be raised with him. Bring us, with all whom you have redeemed, into the joy of your kingdom.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH, 

4^th Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (March 14, 2021)

Numbers 21:4-9 (The bronze serpent; look upon it and live)

Psalm 107:1-9 (Wanderers in desert wastes cry to the Lord; he delivers them

from their trouble)

Ephesians 2:1-10 (Dead in sin, now made alive in Christ by the grace of God)

John 3:14-21 (As Moses lifted up the serpent, so Son of Man is lifted up)

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

 Dear Father, we know the words by heart: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only-begotten Son.” Kindle your Holy Spirit in us, so these words burn bright and pure therein. Let them shine through all our thoughts, words, and deeds.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant that through the Church’s faithful witness to your beloved Son, many people may know of your great love for them; believe in you; and receive everlasting life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give hope and healing when your Church experiences persecution. Lift it up as a sign of your saving love in a sin-darkened world.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

We ask for your blessing upon the people of this congregation. Center our hearts in your love, shown for us in Christ Jesus, and help us to share that love with others.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We fervently pray that you will raise up pastors, teachers, missionaries, and evangelists whose hearts burn with the desire to share the Gospel of your strong saving love with those who do not know you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Teach the leaders of the nations the ways of wisdom, integrity, and humility. Keep them from being seduced by power and praise. Fill them with a hunger for justice; a love of mercy; and a desire to work for peace among all people.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Ease the burden of those who toil to keep your people healthy, safe, and free. Make them wise and brave, honest and good. We also pray that you would give prudence, common sense, and a dash of humility to each of us, to make their jobs a little easier.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

As the Israelites looked upon the bronze serpent and were healed, grant that all who suffer may look upon the Cross of Christ and find healing, comfort, forgiveness, hope and life. Especially we pray for {List}. Restore them to our fellowship; and bestow upon us all the joy of your salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We praise you, heavenly Father, for receiving into eternal life those who believed on Jesus Christ in their mortal life. Keep also our minds and hearts firmly fixed on Jesus, so that we may journey safely through the wilderness of this world into the blessedness and joy of your Promised Land.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH, 

3^rd Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (March 7, 2021)

Exodus 20:1-17 (God gives Israel the 10 Commandments)

Psalm 19 (Heavens tell the glory of God; his law is perfect, reviving the soul)

1 Corinthians 1:18-31 (Message of Cross is foolish, weak; but is God’s wisdom, strength)

John 2:13-25 (Jesus cleanses the Temple)

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Thank you, Father, for your dear Son. Thank you for making him your living Temple. Thank you for making him our eternal “house of prayer.” Give us faith to pray together, with him, “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Cleanse and purify your Church. Make it into a house of prayer for all people. Give it pastors, bishops, and leaders who preach, preside, and teach faithfully, and whose lives adorn the Gospel with holiness. Use it to draw all people to yourself.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless your suffering Church, that it may never be overcome by bitterness or despair, but may be a beacon of your saving love in a sin-darkened world.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

Give to the members of this congregation such zeal for your house, so that we may worship you joyfully; care for one another tenderly; and proclaim your Word boldly.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for fathers and mothers; foster parents; and everyone entrusted with the care and nurture of your little ones. Give them the grace and faith to they may teach their children your commandments and to bring them to your House, there to receive your gracious Word and Sacraments.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Guide the rulers of the nations to seek your will, and give them the strength to do it. Teach us all to live by your commandments; give wisdom and prudence to our elected leaders; and grant us your peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Give strength, wisdom, courage, and integrity to all who stand between us and the threatening dangers of this fallen world. We thank you for their labors and pray for their safety. Prosper all they do that helps to establish justice, health, peace, and unity.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You are the strength of all who suffer and the joy of all who are sorrowful. Be present with your merciful care to all whose need is great, especially: {List}. Give them, and all who love them, grace to trust in Christ Jesus. He alone is their life, health, hope, and salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Gracious heavenly Father, we entrust into your merciful care all our departed loved ones. Comfort all who grieve. Keep our feet in the path of your commandments; our hearts firmly fixed on your forgiving love; and our eyes forever focused on the Cross of Christ Jesus, until you bring us safely into your welcoming embrace and eternal home.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

“Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love” (Ephesians 4:1-2)

Do not walk as one who believes they are worthy, but knowing it is Christ who makes us worthy.  There is a significant difference.  Being full of pride is what brought sin into this age.  Being filled with pride is what has continued the problem.  But also, we are not to act as whipped pups who have nothing.  Live knowing the great privilege which is yours through grace. Thank God for every breath you take.

Lord teach me so that I would know how to walk in a manner worthy of the gift You have given me.  Teach me what it means to be humble, patient, and gentle.  Guide me to live out these things in my daily walk.  Help me, O Lord, for You know where the obstacles are and how to remove the barriers so that I may learn how to walk faithfully.  I am Yours, O Lord, whatever that may mean.

Lord Jesus, You gave everything so that I might have the opportunity to be with You.  Help me learn how to give up everything so that You would be with me.  In giving up myself, teach me what it means to find my real self.  Lead me in the direction of the salvation You have prepared so that I may be always guided by You, O Lord, in the way of eternal life.  You have called me, Lord, now teach me how to follow You.  Amen.