July 4: 6th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 9; U.S. Independence Day
Ezekiel 2:1-5 (God’s Spirit within the prophet called to speak to rebellious people)
Psalm 123 (Have mercy; we have had enough of contempt)
2 Corinthians 12:1-10 (Paul’s visions, and the thorn in the flesh)
Mark 6:1-13 (Jesus rejected in Nazareth; the 12 are sent on mission trip)
THE PRAYERS
Let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ on behalf of the Church, the world, and one another.
A brief silence
Father, sometimes we give you thanks, then gulp. Thank you for your prophets, even when their words are hard. Thank you for your all-sufficient grace, even when it doesn’t remove suffering. Thank you for making us your emissaries and missionaries, even when the world holds you in contempt. Thank you – and deal patiently with us while we gulp!
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
You commissioned Ezekiel to speak to your people; and your Son chose the Twelve to spread the Gospel. Bestow your Spirit upon the Church, so it may speak words of warning and grace to all people. Grant that many are brought to repentance, faith, and redemption in Christ Jesus.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Grant your all-sufficient grace to your persecuted servants. By their faithful witness, turn their enemies toward the cross of Christ, there to be forgiven and transformed. Bestow your favor and guidance upon your missionaries, especially those serving in dangerous places.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Thank you for calling this congregation into fellowship with your Son. Give us the gifts of the Holy Spirit, and make us disciples and heralds of your Kingdom. Grant us courage to boldly share the Good News. Give us kindness, so that others may gladly hear it.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
You have given us this good land as our heritage. Make us always remember your generosity and constantly do your will. Save us from violence, discord, confusion, and every evil course of action. Give us what outward prosperity may be your will; but above all things, give us faith in you, that our nation may glorify your name and be a blessing to all peoples.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Keep our military personnel and first responders in your care. Equip them to secure and further the blessings of peace, justice, and liberty. Help us to support and encourage their families until they are reunited. Heal all whose lives have been shattered by the violence of war.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
St. Paul prayed that his thorn in the flesh might be removed. We pray for all who suffer, especially: {List}. Heal them according to your will. Give them confidence in your grace, which is sufficient for their needs. Thank you for all caregivers. Give them competence, kindness, and patience. Keep all for whom we pray in close communion with those who love them.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Most holy Father, we praise you for your never-failing mercy. We entrust to that mercy all our departed loved ones. Wipe away the tears of all who grieve. Keep us close to your heart throughout our lives. Support us with your grace, and heal us with your forgiving love. Lead us by your Spirit into the Kingdom won for us by your Son, Christ Jesus our Lord.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Hear and graciously answer our prayers, dear Lord, as it is best for us and most glorifies your holy name. Amen.
