July 3: 4th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 9; closest Sunday to Independence Day)
July 3: 4th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 9; closest Sunday to Independence Day)
Isaiah 66:10-14 (All who love Jerusalem, rejoice; as mother comforts children, so God will comfort you)
Psalm 66:1-9 (Sing praise to God for his awesome deeds!)
Galatians 6:1-10, 14-18 (Correct sinners in spirit of gentleness; sow to the Spirit, not the flesh; reap harvest of salvation in Christ)
ELW/RCL: Galatians 6:[1-6], 7-16 (Optional correction, burden bearing; eliminates Paul’s final words)
Luke 10:1-20 (The mission of the seventy)
By the power of the Holy Spirit, let us pray to God our Father in the name of Christ Jesus our Lord, making intercession for the Church, the world, and for all people according to their need.
A brief silence
Heavenly Father, thank you for entrusting us with the mission of spreading the Gospel throughout the world! Thank you for the Holy Spirit, who reminds us of everything Jesus has taught. Thank you for your Son’s grace and forgiveness when we fall short. And thank you for his promise to give us his strength and authority, which is sufficient for all our needs.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Your Son sent the Seventy to announce your Kingdom’s close approach. We pray for the Church across the earth. Grant that, in the power of the Spirit, it sows your Word in many hearts. Let it correct, encourage, comfort, and instruct sinners gently. May it reap a harvest of salvation in Jesus Christ.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Make this congregation eager to worship, pray, and serve. Help us to endure rejection and to focus on the joy in heaven over each sinner who repents and turns to Jesus in faith.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
As a mother comforts her children, we pray that you would comfort your persecuted Church. Give it gentle and valiant faith, so the hearts of its tormentors may be softened with repentance and remorse.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Thank you for our country, especially as we celebrate the blessings of independence, liberty, and justice for all. Guide us, especially our elected leaders, in pathways of righteousness and truth. Let us continue to be a beacon of freedom to the world. Grant the blessings of justice and peace throughout the world, so that all people may live, work, and serve you with glad and quiet hearts.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Guard and protect all who travel this summer, especially families enjoying time together on vacation. Grant them refreshment and relaxation; and renew their love for each other, for you, and for the loveliness of your creation.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
We pray that all who suffer in body, mind or spirit may know that your Kingdom has indeed drawn near to them. Especially we remember: {list}. Give wisdom and competence to their doctors, nurses, and caregivers. Grant them healing and hope, so they may praise your awesome deeds.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Gracious Lord, comfort your children who mourn the death of a loved one. Turn sorrow into rejoicing, and despair into confident hope. Give us such a spirit of gentleness, that through our witness, those who have strayed are encouraged to return to your forgiving and merciful care. Lead us into the full splendor of your Kingdom, where with all the redeemed, we shall delight in praising and worshipping you forever.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.