“It is a trustworthy statement deserving full acceptance.  For it is for this we labor and strive, because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of believers” (1 Timothy 4:9-10).

Upon what or whom have you fixed your hope?  It is beyond pathetic if your hope is upon you.  You know how limited you are.  Fix your hope upon the living God who created you.  He is the Creator and the Savior of all.  In Him is life and apart from Him there can be no life.  So live in faith, hope, and love knowing that your hope cannot be based on what you imagine, but what God promises.

Lord, this world is filled with wishful thinking.  You have given solid promises of new life now and later, life everlasting.  Help me to understand these things and fix my hope only upon what You have said.  Guide me, Lord, in the way of the life You have created and keep me from turning inward.  Instead, guide me to always look to You and remember the provision and promise that You have given.

Lord Jesus, there are many things I do not yet understand, nor do I need to, but You have given me all that I need.  It is You, God in the flesh, who is my Savior.  You have come so that all who believe and follow You will have true and everlasting life.  Lead me in this life in order that each day I would awaken and hope in You.  Guide me to walk in this hope and live reflecting the light of faith, hope and love in all I say and do.  Amen.

“But have nothing to do with worldly fables fit only for old women. On the other hand, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness; for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come” (1 Timothy 4:7-8).

How much of what is called theology is only wishful thinking?  There are many things we do not know.  Do we need to know them all?  No, no we do not.  Listen to what the Lord has said.  That is enough.  Do not get wrapped up in special knowledge, super powers, or old wives tales.  The Lord has come and in Him You have life.  That is more than enough.  Work on what He has given you without wishing for more.

Lord, You have given the words of eternal life.  Guide me, Lord, in the way of the life You have given me.  Help me to understand that this is more than enough and that I do not need to invent more, nor listen to those who do.  You have revealed Your grace and truth and I cannot even handle this.  Lead me, Lord, in the way of true life and help me to be content with what You have given me.

Lord Jesus, You said that You only did what the Father told You to do.  Help me to follow Your example and listen only to what You have said.  Keep me from the devilishness which is not satisfied with Your Word.  Guide me, O Lord, in the way of truth so that I would now and forever be led by You in truth.  Help me to see that in You is all hope and the only good future for anyone.  Amen.

“In pointing out these things to the brethren, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, constantly nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound doctrine which you have been following” (1 Timothy 4:6).

Listen to the grace of this.  Point them out.  That is what the preacher does, he points them out.  Can you not do the same (if you are not a preacher)?  Of course, you can.  Point to the Word and let the Word do its work.  If they listen, you have discovered a sister or brother.  If they do not, you’ve done what you were asked.  We simply give a witness to the Lord and His grace and mercy.

Come into the presence of the Lord and live according to all that He commands.  Did He not give the Great Commission to us all?  We all are a part of the process of salvation for others.  This “religious specialization” our culture insists as necessary is not from the Lord.  Yes, we each have our spiritual gifts and tasks, but all of us can do what is needed for the Lord.  Live in this truth and learn faithfulness.

Lord Jesus, You demonstrated humbleness.  You, who are the One through whom all things have their being, walked with and met all kinds of people and You treated them the same.  You loved us all enough to die for us.  Yes, I have perpetual questions, but what are these to the truth that You are who You say You are.  Lead me, Lord, in the everlasting way of truth so that I may follow You always.  Amen.

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH, Cycle C: 3^rd Sunday after Epiphany, Proper 2, January 23, 2022

Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10: (Ezra reads the book of Moses, instructs the people; Nehemiah

declares a day of feasting)

Psalm 19:1-14: (The heavens proclaim God’s glory; my heart rejoices in his precepts. Let the words of my mouth and meditation of my heart be acceptable in his sight)

1 Corinthians 12:12-31a: (The unity of the Body of Christ)

Luke 4:16-30: (Jesus reads from the prophet Isaiah concerning the healing of the poor, lame, blind and imprisoned, declaring that today that Word has been fulfilled)

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Let us draw near to the Throne of Grace, offering prayer and supplication on behalf of the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Lord God, thank you for your Word, given to us as Holy Scripture, the sure foundation for life as your beloved community. Thank you for your Word made flesh in your Son, Jesus Christ. Conform our lives to His. Send us with your Word to all who are blinded by distractions, deafened by voices of pleasure and power, lamed by suffering, imprisoned by sin, and impoverished in body, mind, or spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make your Church a place where your Word is faithfully proclaimed, eagerly heard, and gladly heeded. We also pray your persecuted disciples. Do not let us despise or ignore their suffering or their testimony. Say to them, “Do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Build up the Body of Christ in this congregation. Help us to accept, develop, and share the gifts you have given each of us. Teach us to encourage and rejoice in the gifts of others, whether those gifts seem small or great. Let all be done to glorify you and to share your mercy with those around us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray, therefore, on behalf of shut-ins, the physically and mentally challenged, the frail, and everyone whose gifts are often overlooked or despised, even by themselves. Grant that, following our Lord’s example, we may honor them; and that we may rejoice together as fellow members of his Body.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Teach your precepts to all who take counsel for the nations; to our military; and to first responders. Grant them wisdom, integrity, and common sense. Let all of us live peacefully, work fruitfully, and enjoy the many blessings and gifts which you have provided for the benefit of all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Your Son bestowed healing, sight, freedom, and good news to all who are in bondage to the powers of sin, evil and death. We lift before you the needs of all who need his strong saving love, including: {List}. Visit them with your salvation; heal their bodies and revive their hearts; and let them rejoice you.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

Thank you, heavenly Father, for receiving into your Kingdom those who died trusting in your Word. Keep us close to Jesus. Speak your Word of life, and let us feed on it. Fill us with your Spirit, and help us share it. Knit us into Christ’s Body, and make us rejoice in it. Keep us faithful unto death, and then say to us: “This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn or weep, and do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength, forevermore.”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Graciously hear, and generously answer our prayers, dear Father, in accordance with your wisdom and mercy for us. We pray in the name of your dear Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH, Cycle C: 2^nd Sunday after Epiphany, Proper 1, January 16, 2022

Isaiah 62:1-5: (Zion shall be the beautiful and beloved bride of God)

Psalm 128: (The blessedness of family life for those who love God)

            RCL/ELW: Psalm 36:5-10: (God’s love, judgments, salvation are for all. “In your light we see light.”)

1 Corinthians 12:1-11: (no one speaking by the Spirit of God says “Let Jesus be cursed;” no one says “Jesus is Lord” except by the Holy Spirit. There are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit)

John 2:1-11: (Wedding at Cana)

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Let us draw near to the Throne of Grace, offering prayer and supplication on behalf of the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Holy God, thank you for loving your people so passionately that the best human analogy is that of a wedding, and of the love between a bride and bridegroom. Forgive us when we can’t properly hear or understand these words! Thank you for the healing and forgiveness that you bestow in Jesus. Thank you for your Holy Spirit, who constantly forms us into Christ’s image and his bride.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Adorn your Church with faithful teaching and preaching, and with deeds of mercy and reconciliation. Grant that its worship befits the adoration and delight of a bride for her beloved. Overshadow your persecuted servants with your Holy Spirit. Let them bless the Name of Jesus their Lord. Let their tormentors repent of cursing his Name.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give the wedding-presents of joy and faithfulness, forbearance and forgiveness to all married couples. Bring healing to homes fractured by sin and suffering. Gather those who are single – by choice or circumstance – into your loving embrace. Form us all into your big, boisterous, and blessed family.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord, for many of our congregations “we are family” is very literally true! Bind us together with the cords of your love, as well as our kinship ties and traditions. Make this congregation a place where many are adopted into your family, and where the bounties of your blessings are lovingly shared with all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Let your steadfast love and righteousness dwell in the hearts of our elected and appointed leaders; in the minds of all who take counsel for the nations; and in the actions of everyone in positions of authority in our society. Give us grace to share the gifts and skills you have so generously bestowed – especially with the poor and lonely, the suffering and the sorrowing.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We plead on behalf of everyone who struggles with pain, grief, addiction, fear, shame, doubt, or despair. We lift before you this day the needs of: {List.} Give them courage to cling to you in times of trouble. And give to those who care for them a double portion of your compassionate and loving Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

Thank you, heavenly Father, for all our beloved dead who clung faithfully to your promise of salvation. Dry our tears and ease our sorrow. Give us grace to live in faith toward you, and with fervent love for one another. Then, by your great mercy, gather us, with all whom your dear Son is pleased to call his bride and his beloved, at the table of that marriage feast which has no end.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Graciously hear, and generously answer our prayers, dear Father, in accordance with your wisdom and mercy for us. We pray in the name of your dear Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH, Cycle C: The Baptism of Our Lord, January 9, 2022

Isaiah 43:1-7: (I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned. For I am your Savior)

Psalm 29: (Ascribe glory to the Lord; his mighty voice resounds over the waters)

Romans 6:1-11: (We are baptized into the death and resurrection of Christ)

            RCL/ELW: Acts 8:14-17 (Peter and John lay hands on those baptized in Jesus’ name, they receive Spirit)

Luke 3:15-17, 21-22: (John speaks of the One who will baptize with fire and the Holy Spirit; the baptism of Jesus)

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Let us draw near to the Throne of Grace, offering prayer and supplication on behalf of the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Heavenly Father, thank you for revealing a tiny part of the mystery of the Trinity, in the Baptism of your beloved Son. Thank you for uniting us to him, in the power of the heaven-descended Dove. Thank you for naming us your beloved children in our own Baptism. Give us grace to live lives well-pleasing to you. Let all of our thoughts, words, and deeds cry “Glory!”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless your Church throughout the world. Through it, let the world hear the thunder of your voice and know the beauty of your holiness. We also pray on behalf of our sisters and brothers who suffer greatly for confessing Jesus as Lord. Fulfill among them your promise that the flames of persecution should not burn them, nor the waters of death carry them away from you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bestow your blessing on all who are baptized or reaffirming their baptismal covenant today. Stir up your Spirit in them, that they may be freed from sin, united to Christ, and named as your children forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless the people and the ministry of this congregation. Make us dead to sin and alive to you in Christ. Burn away the chaff from our hearts; gather up and sanctify all that you have cleansed; and use us to share with family and neighbors the new life we have in our Savior.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for our country and for our world. Establish peace, concord, and righteousness among us. Keep watch over those who, to protect us, walk through the floods of violence and the flames of war.  Conform their decisions, words, and actions to your will. Bring them home safely and soon. Bring healing to families and communities wounded by violence and fractured by injustice and hatred.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Say to all who suffer in mind, body or spirit, “Do not fear, for I am with you.” Especially we name before you: {List}. Gather them from the far reaches of suffering and sorrow; restore them to all who love them; and remind them always that they are precious in your sight.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

We remember before you our loved ones whom you have delivered from the waters of death. You have also called us by name, and made us your own in Baptism. Keep us united with Jesus.  Strengthen us by your Spirit to daily walk in the newness of his life. At the last, say to us and to all whom you name as your own, “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. ²I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.⁴ You are precious in my sight, and honored, and I love you, ⁷everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made.’

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Graciously hear, and generously answer our prayers, dear Father, in accordance with your wisdom and mercy for us. We pray in the name of your dear Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH, Cycle C: The Epiphany of Our Lord, January 6, 2022

Isaiah 60:1-6: (Arise, shine, your Light has come; kings shall bring riches)

Psalm 72:1-11(12-15): (Give the king justice, O God, let kings from far away bring tribute)

Ephesians 3:1-12 (Paul is an apostle to the Gentiles, who are granted fullness of salvation through Christ)

Matthew 2:1-12: (The wise men come to worship Jesus, return home by another way)

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Let us draw near to the Throne of Grace, offering prayer and supplication on behalf of the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Most holy God, thank you for filling all creation with light and life. Thank you for revealing your Son, who has eternally shared the splendor of your light and life. Thank you for making him, your Word made flesh, a lamp to our feet and light to our path. Enlighten our hearts with the dear presence of Jesus, our Light and our Life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Brighten with the fair beauty of Christ the Church in every land. Make it radiant with holiness, charity, and faithfulness. Use it to draw many who are afar off to worship and adore you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Be the true light and life of all who are persecuted on account of you.  Give them the wisdom of the magi, the obedience of Joseph, and the faithfulness of Mary. Turn the hearts of their adversaries away from sin and hatred, and toward you in repentance and faith.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray your favor upon this new year, and upon our hopes and resolutions for a better future. Give hope and strength to all for whom the new year seems to bring no release from sorrow and care. Give us grace to seek your will for our common good. Draw us in steadfast hope toward your great and eternal New Year.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Shed the light of your love upon this congregation. Light the flame of kindliness and generosity in our midst. Help us to share with our families and neighbors the good gifts you have bestowed on us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

It is easy for earthly rulers to listen to counsels of fear, power, and expediency. Give them instead, the heart to hear and heed your Word, and the will to act according to it, for the benefit of the people entrusted to their care. Help all of us to listen, speak and act with patience and prudence, and to strive to live at peace with one another.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Be the light and salvation of everyone who calls upon you in times of trouble. We plead especially on behalf of: {List}. Renew in them the gifts of health, wholeness, and hope. Ease the burdens and bless the labors of all who care for them. Refresh their spirits, and bind us all together in cords of mutual care and compassion.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

The generations rise and fall and pass before you, O Lord; and we entrust our beloved dead into your merciful care. Comfort those whose grief runs deep. Give us eyes to see the sorrow and suffering around us. Give us lips to pray and encourage, and hands to extend in fellowship and help. Give us hearts to beat with compassion and mercy. Grant to all whom you have redeemed a portion in that imperishable inheritance you have prepared for them in Christ. Bring us into your Kingdom, where you reign in the unity of your Son and the Holy Spirit, God forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Graciously hear, and generously answer our prayers, dear Father, in accordance with your wisdom and mercy for us. We pray in the name of your dear Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with gratitude; for it is sanctified by means of the word of God and prayer” (1 Timothy 4:4-5).

Everything God created is good.  We are not to reject things just because someone says it is no longer good.  Food is for the eating, so eat.  The functions of the body were created for what they were created for.  The real principle is natural law, not to change God’s creation for man’s idea.  In all things, give thanks to the Lord for what He has created and enjoy the creation as He made it.  Live with thanksgiving always.

Lord, this almost seems too simple, yet it is right.  I see all kinds of examples where liars play with this and say we must accept this or that.  Most recently, the culture says that we can choose our own identity.  No, You created us male or female.  Let the simplicity of all that You have said come fully into me so that the nonsense of this world might more easily be seen for what it is.

Lord Jesus, You came to set the captives free.  There are too many who are willing to put us back into bondage where we once again live in slavery to whatever the latest worldly craze might be.  Lead me through the games of this world to understand that all things are in Your hands and that what You have created is good.  Keep me away from the perversions of what has been created and in the goodness of Your creation always.  Amen.

“[B]y means of the hypocrisy of liars seared in their own conscience as with a branding iron, men who forbid marriage and advocate abstaining from foods which God has created to be gratefully shared in by those who believe and know the truth” (1 Timothy 4:2-3).

I want it to be true and therefore, it is true for me.  This seems to be a repeating pattern of sinners who will not listen to the Word God has revealed.  Liars hear in their mind what they want to believe.  Whether it is religious liars, or the God-haters in this world, it is the same.  They will not believe the truth.  Christ has set you free to become what He is making of you.  Come then into the Father’s plan for your salvation and live as you were made to live.

You know where I fall into the trap of wishful thinking, Lord.  You know where I am enticed and want what I want.  Take from me these things so that I may be grateful for all that You have given me.  Guide me, Lord, in the way of truth in order that I may now and always humbly abide in Your presence, truth, direction and word.  Lead me in the way of life and away from seeking to do things by my own will. Thy will be done!

Lord Jesus, there are those who are eunuchs, but that is what You make of them.  Let me not listen to the liars who tell me I must do this or that.  Help me listen to You so that I may do what is right.  Guide me in the freedom You give to live according to Your purpose as You lead me in the way of salvation.  Guide me Lord in order that I may follow and persevere on  the path You have set before me.  Amen.

“But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons” (1 Timothy 4:1)

To whom do you listen?  Do you test the spirits?  Take this admonition to heart and you will do well.  The wicked one hates you and wants you to go astray.  The Lord has died for you so that You may walk with Him.  Be on the alert and be aware that the is the battle which rages around and in you.  Hold fast to what is true and do not fall away as some have but live in the truth of, and response to, the Spirit Who has been given to you.

Lord, I have all I need except perhaps one thing, and that is the diligence to continue paying attention to these things. Help me, I pray, to have a clear mind, seeing the world around me, both the good and bad.  Help me to hold fast to the Gospel delivered once for all.  In and through all things, guide me in Your goodness to be faithful and not to fall for the deceit of the devil.  Keep me faithful.

Lord, You died in order that I might live into the eternal life You give by grace.  Guide me, Lord, so that I may not fall for the temptations of the wicked one or believe his lies.  You are the truth Lord and You have come for me.  Guide me in the way of true faith and help me to hold fast lest I fall for the schemes of the wicked one.  Lord, You know what I need.  Thank You for providing for my every need.  Amen.