“So I will always remind you of these things, even though you know them and are firmly established in the truth you now have” (2 Peter 1:12).

We do need constant reminders to continue on the right path.  The world is selling its garbage all the time.  We need to be aware that we need encouragement.  These things of the Spirit are within you but you must make them who you are.  (These things have been told to you, now make them the way in which  you think.)  Through all things the Lord will lead you to be conformed to the image of Christ.  In Him there is all hope.

Lord, help me to see that life is to be lived and is not just a destination.  You give me life one day at a time.  You build in me those things I need so that I will walk humbly with You for all eternity.  Continue to strengthen in me the truth of the salvation You purchased for me on the cross.  Guide me according to Your goodness to live into the eternal life which is mine in You.

Lord Jesus, You continuously poured Yourself into the disciples.  Even then, Judas betrayed You.  Help me realize that these things are not to be taken lightly.  Guide me in all goodness that I would seek what is right and live into the things You have poured into me.  Firmly establish me in You that I would continue to grow in Your likeness and be led by all that is good and right.  Amen.    

“For if you do these things, you will never stumble, and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 1:10b-11).

You may have difficulties.  Jesus promised that you would.  What this means is that you will stay on the right path if you follow your call.  You will come to know that everything really is in the Father’s hands.  Do not live dependent upon your ability alone but come into the hope you have because you were called by the Lord into His power and authority.  The Savior has done all that is needed for your salvation.

Lord, help me understand that I cannot depend upon myself for these things, but upon You alone.  You have saved me.  I have not saved myself.  Guide me in the salvation You prepared for me long before I came upon this earth.  You have done these things for Your purpose and You have called me into that purpose.  Help me to live now and forever in the goodness of Your grace and mercy.

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for the goodness of Your grace.  You paid the price so that all who have been called into Your grace may walk in Your mercy and be conformed to Your image.  Lead me this day, Lord, in order that I would now and forever be guided by You and not falter, but receive the rich welcome You have prepared for all of the faithful.  Thank You, Lord Jesus, for opening the kingdom to Your children.  Amen.

“Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election” ( 2 Peter 1:10a).

Everyone has a call.  The Latin word vocatio is the word from which we get vocation.  Even the one retired who plays golf has that as their avocation.  Is your true call the one from Jesus?  Live in the call He has given you and confirm that you are called by living out that call in Him.  It is simply living the truth in your life.  It is affirming that you are becoming like Christ as He conforms you to His image.

Lord, why do I make the faith so much more difficult than it needs to be?  You called me in my baptism and gave me the power to become a child of the Heavenly Father.  Lead me in the way of everlasting life so that I may live the truth that You elected me to become Your child.   I did nothing to deserve it, it was a free gift You gave through faith and that is Your grace to enable me to become what You will make of me.

Lord Jesus, we have all been born to live in such a time as we find ourselves.  In You alone is hope and promise.  Guide me, dear Lord, to see that in the hope You give I will find all it takes to make me complete.  Lead me and help me to always follow You.  Speak to me, Lord, and help me to hear when You speak.  Guide me, Lord, and help me to follow You wherever You lead.  Amen.

“But whoever does not have them is nearsighted and blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their past sins” (2 Peter 1:9).

Too many seem to operate under the false idea of thinking their own way is the right way.  The truth is that we are all sinners in need of salvation.  We all need what only the Lord can give.  Come then into the salvation which is yours in Christ and be led by the Holy Spirit in the way of everlasting life.  Know that in the Lord there is hope and the eternal future which is yours because Christ has made repentance and forgiveness possible for the cleansing of all sin.

Lord, let me not forget the benefits of Your goodness and grace.  Guide me according to Your goodness to live into the life You give by grace.  Clear my sight so that I may see more clearly each day and know the truth of eternity.  Bring me into the love You have for us all and teach me how to live in that love now and forever.  Thank You for providing all that is needed now and forever.

Lord Jesus, You paid the price once for all so that we who are in sin might come to live as if we had never sinned.  Guide me, O Lord, in the way of everlasting life in order that I may walk humbly in the grace You give me.  Help me to step back so that I may see things as they are.  Guide me always in the upward path of salvation and let me never forget that by Your stripes I have been healed.  Amen.

“For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 1:8).

When we are called by grace in faith to walk with the Lord, we enter onto a journey with Him.  Every journey begins somewhere and ends somewhere.  We may not know what we are going to be, but we do know that we are being conformed to the image of Christ.  Therefore, willingly take the steps you can in order to be conformed to Christ.  Seek the better qualities, of which the greatest is love, knowing that He will bring forth all that is necessary to accomplish this. 

Lord, there are so many times when I believe that I cannot.  You must take the lead and guide me in the way of everlasting life.  I have walked many steps, but there are so many times when You must carry me.  Help me, Lord, to understand that only in You is there hope and a future.  Help me to be effective in my faith as I grow in the knowledge of the faith You have given me.  Increase in me the good qualities of Your presence.

Thank You Lord Jesus for being the Savior.  Save me today.  Save me from the doubts and the foolish thoughts that come into my mind.  Lead me to humbly walk step by step in the way I should go.  Lead me according to Your promises to walk humbly, but boldly in the goodness of Your grace and mercy.  Teach me the things I need to know to hold fast and stay strong in faith.  Amen.

“[A]nd to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love” (2 Peter 1:6-7).

This parallels what Paul told the Romans.  We are to keep pressing on through all the difficulties that come our way.  The Lord will lead us on the journey for which the way is the love which He has given us so that love may be shared willingly and freely.  Marvel at the gift and walk upon the path the Lord has placed before you.  He knows what you need and is guiding you.

LORD, there are times where this is so hard to do.  Help me, I pray, to stay focused upon the tasks You have given me.  Guide me according to Your goodness and mercy to see that in You alone is there all hope.  You have given me this life of faith.  You have made this faith possible.  You are the One who loves me enough to pour Your Spirit into me so that I may humbly walk the path You have laid before me.

Guide me, dear Jesus, in all the footsteps I need to take so that I may walk this journey of self-control which emanates from love.  Help me through all the obstacles that will come my way that I not stumble and fall.  In Your goodness, hold me fast to the faith You have given me so that I may now and always walk the path You have set before me.  Lead me always in the way of everlasting life in order that I may love and be loved.  Amen.

THE PRAYERS, Christmas Day, Cycle A

Sunday, December 25, 2022: Christmas Day, the Nativity of Our Lord

Isaiah 52:7-10 (How beautiful the feet of messengers who announce, ‘Your God reigns;’ the

            ends of the earth shall see his salvation)

Psalm 2 (You are my Son; today have I begotten you; you shall rule the nations)

            RCL/ELW: Psalm 98

Hebrews 1:1-12 (The Son, the perfect image of God, far higher than angels)

John 1:1-18 (In the beginning was the Word…)

            RC/ELW: John 1:1-14

Let us pray that Jesus brings light, salvation, and peace to the church, the world, and all people.

A brief silence

O Word made flesh, who dwells among us, bless the Church with a glimpse of your glory. Let it worship with the angels’ adoration, the bliss of Mother Mary, the quiet goodness of Joseph, and the reverence of the shepherds. Give it words to proclaim your glory and love, especially to those who do not know you. Through its witness, unite the world in the song first sung at your birth: “Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth!”

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You are higher than every angel, and yet you are pleased to dwell in our midst. Bless this congregation with joyful hearts, fervent worship, eager witness, loving service, and kindly fellowship. In all we say and do, let us bear witness to you, our Savior and our God.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

O Prince of Peace, protect and bless your persecuted servants, especially during this season of light. Turn their suffering for the sake of your Name into great joy. Transform their tormentors into confessors of your undeserved mercy.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Even the feet of your servants are beautiful when they speed to announce your strong saving love to those who despair of your existence, power, or goodness. Bless, therefore, all missionaries of the Gospel of Peace; all Christian relief organizations; every soup kitchen, homeless shelter, assisted living facility, and hospice; and every herald of your Kingdom who gladdens the hearts of those who sit in darkness and sorrow.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Born a Child, you are the King of all nations, and their Lord. Conform the rulers of this world to your glorious and gentle rule. Teach them to do your will; love justice and mercy; to walk humbly with you; and to be a blessing to the people entrusted to their care.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You are the heaven-born Prince of Peace. But in this sinful world, violence and warfare trouble your people even on Christmas morning. Let your holy angels shield, strengthen, and direct the words and actions of all in the military; all first responders; and anyone whose work is difficult and dangerous. Give their loved ones “tidings of comfort and joy,” and homecomings that are filled with solace, healing, and peace.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

O Sun of Righteousness, arise with healing in your wings and bestow the glorious light of your salvation upon all who sit in the darkness of suffering and the shadow of death. Restore them to life and hope; encourage all who care for them; and let the great good news of your birth among us adorn their suffering with unconquerable joy.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

In you, dear Jesus, we see the eternal love of your Father’s heart, and the eternal glory of his Kingdom. Thank you for drawing into his embrace all those who died trusting in your goodness. Wipe away the tears from those who grieve. Give us your blessed comfort, your precious forgiveness, and your ever-faithful guidance. Fit us for your Kingdom: lead us into the bright courts of heaven, and into the endless Day, where with your Father and the Holy Spirit, you reign in undisturbed joy and blessedness, now and forever.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Hear and mercifully grant us, dear Lord, all that we ask that conforms to your good and perfect will for us, for your Name’s sake. AMEN.

THE PRAYERS, Christmas Eve, Cycle A

December 24, 2023: Christmas Eve, the Nativity of Our Lord

Isaiah 9:2-7 (For Unto us a child is born)

Psalm 96 (Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name)

Titus 2:11-14 (God’s salvation has appeared in Jesus, training us to live godly lives)

Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) (The story of Jesus’ birth)

Let us pray that Jesus brings light, salvation, and peace to the church, the world, and all people.

A brief silence

Lord Jesus Christ, we come to your cradle with joy and wonder! We adore you for your loving-kindness. We thank you for making yourself small and meek, that we might approach you gladly and without fear. Thank you, dear Jesus; accept our hearts as our best and loving gift.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Make the Church your holy manger. Bless it with your dear presence, your great goodness, and your holy love. Like herald angels, let it always announce your mercy and favor to any who will receive you into their hearts and lives.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Make this congregation into a welcoming Bethlehem stable. Give us joyful souls, eager to adore and proclaim your precious Name. Give us generous hearts, so that we see and welcome you in the unexpected people touching our lives. Give us tireless hands and feet, so we may hurry to share your great love with those who need it most.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

O Prince of Peace, protect and bless your persecuted servants, especially during this season of light. Turn their suffering for the sake of your Name into great joy. Transform their tormentors into confessors of your undeserved mercy.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Little Lord Jesus, bless all the dear children who most need your tender care. Kindle faith in their hearts, and keep them safe from every danger. Give childlike faith to everyone who doubts your existence or despairs of your forgiveness, and give them peace.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Born a Child, you are the King of all nations, and their Lord. Conform the rulers of this world to your glorious and gentle rule. Teach them to do your will; to love justice and mercy; to walk humbly with you; and to be a blessing to the people entrusted to their care.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Angels sang of peace and good will at your birth. In this sinful world, violence troubles your people even on this holy night. Let your holy angels protect and direct those in the military; all first responders; and anyone whose work is difficult and dangerous, this night and always. Bring justice and mercy to places of discord and chaos, and bestow your peace upon us all.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

O Sun of Righteousness, arise with healing in your wings. Shine the light of your salvation on all who sit in the darkness of suffering and the shadow of death. Restore them to life and hope. Encourage all who care for them. Let the good news of your birth among us adorn their suffering with unconquerable joy.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, you have come to save us from evil, from our sins, and from death. Wipe away the tears of those whose grief runs deep. Stay near us, Lord Jesus, we pray. Love us and guide us throughout our lives. Bless us to be a blessing to others. Bring all your dear children to heaven, to live with you forever in the holy light of your love, which you have shared eternally with your Father and the Holy Spirit, for with them you are one God, now and unto the ages of ages.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Hear and mercifully answer our prayers, dear Lord, according to the favor you bear for your people. Amen.

THE PRAYERS, Advent 4, Cycle A: December 18, 2022

Isaiah 7:1-17 (2 assurances to King Ahaz of God’s presence: the second is that Emmanuel shall be born of the virgin)

            ELW/RCL: Isaiah 7:10-16 (only 2^nd promise)

Psalm 24 (Lift up your heads, that the King of Glory may come in)

            ELW/RCL: Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 (Restore us, O God; let your face shine, so we may be saved.)

Romans 1:1-7 (Promise of the Messiah, coming from David’s line)

Matthew 1:18-25 (The annunciation – to Joseph)

As we await the coming of Christ in mercy and majesty, let us pray for the Church, the world, and for all people according to their need.

A brief silence

O come, Emmanuel, our Lord and God, our King and Brother! Come with healing and blessing, with light and life. Come and save us all from sin and evil and endless death.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

O Wisdom, proceeding from the mouth of the Most High, fill the Church with your Spirit. Sustain and order its worship, proclamation, and works of charity, according to your most holy will. Come, and teach us prudence.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

O Adonai, ruler of the House of Israel, rule also in the lives and works of your people in this congregation. Give us your Word and show us your glory. Look with favor upon all who seek to be your disciples in this place. Come with your outstretched arm to redeem us.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

O Emmanuel, the ransom of your people Israel: deliver your persecuted servants from torment this day also. Keep them faithful and steadfast. Help us to honor their witness and provide for their needs. Turn their tormentors from their evil ways. Come; and teach them courage.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

O Bright and Morning Star, you gladden the hearts of those who sit in darkness. Shine on all who are overwhelmed by despair, confusion, hatred, or unbelief. Come; and lead them into the brightness of your holy love.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

O King of the nations, the ruler they long for, unite all people under your glorious and gentle reign. Teach us the things that make for peace. Come and save us, whom you formed from clay.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

O Root of Jesse, you stand as an ensign before the peoples. Guard and guide all who stand in harm’s way in defense of justice and freedom. Come quickly, and deliver them.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

O Key of David, you open what no one can close; you close what no one can open. Free all who suffer and are imprisoned by the powers of sin, evil, and death: especially {List}. Come, and close the path to misery.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

O Dayspring, splendor of life everlasting, keep safe in your mighty arms all those who died trusting in your promises. Come and enlighten us, who still sit in the shadow of death, and open wide our heavenly home.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

All these things, and whatever else you see that we need, grant to us, dear Father, for the sake of your Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.