June 19, 2022: 2nd Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 7; Fathers’ Day
Isaiah 65:1-9 (I was eager to be found by a nation that did not seek me; sinful deeds will be requited, but God will preserve a blessing for all whom he gathers)
Psalm 3 (A prayer of confidence in God in times of danger)
ELW/RCL: Psalm 22: 19-28 (Deliver me, and I will praise you in great congregation)
Galatians 3:23-4:7 (Law was a disciplinarian; now we are children who’ve come fully into inheritance of Christ by his grace; no longer Jew/Gentile, etc.)
ELW/RCL: Galatians 3:23-29 (Eliminates law as guardian, crying out Abba, Father)
Luke 8:26-39 (Jesus heals the Gadarene demoniac and sends the demons into the herd of pigs)
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 your Law, our teacher and disciplinarian. Thank you for your Gospel of grace, forgiveness, and freedom in Jesus. Thank you for your Holy Spirit, who gives us ears of faith to hear and do both words rightly.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Preserve your Church as your faithful remnant in the world. Conform it to the image of your Son. Use its words and deeds to draw many to faith in Jesus Christ.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Bless this congregation, its people and its work. Cause all things to be done to your glory and for the benefit of your people. Clothe us in the loveliness of Christ, for the sake of the people he loves.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Bless your missionaries, so that through their preaching, many may receive the Gospel of forgiveness, peace, and life. Be the shield and glory of all who suffer on account of Jesus’ name. Sustain them in their suffering; deliver them from their enemies; and turn the hearts of evil-doers to repentance and faith.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
You stretch out your arms to peoples who do not know your name. Bless all nations with a longing to know your goodness and to do your will. Fill our leaders with wisdom, humility, and integrity, so that they may rightly use the authority entrusted to them.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Bless all fathers, foster fathers, and everyone who acts with a fatherly heart toward your little ones. In all things, conform them to yourself, for you are Abba, our dear Father for Jesus’ sake. Comfort all whose fathers are absent, abusive, or deceased. Give hope and solace to dads who have lost a child, and to men who long to be fathers and cannot.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Sustain the lives and cheer the hearts of all who cry to you for help, especially: {List}. Especially we pray for all who suffer from mental illness, post-traumatic shock, or addiction, and for their families. Help them find clarity and calm; restore them to their right mind; and heal relationships wounded by their affliction. Bless and strengthen those entrusted with their care; and let your saving help bring joy to all.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Thank you, holy and gracious Father, for the deliverance you have accomplished through your beloved Son for all who have died trusting in your promises. We who still await that fulfillment pray: keep us steadfast in faith, clothed in Christ, filled with your Spirit, always eager to turn to you and cry “Abba, Father.” Accomplish your promised salvation among us. When death claims us, lift up our heads, so that with all whom you have redeemed, we may forever glorify your name and rejoice in your love.
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.
