THE PRAYERS, January 22, 2023, 3^rd Sunday after the Epiphany

Isaiah 9:1-4 (The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light)

Psalm 27:1-9 (The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom then shall I fear?)

            RCL/ELW: Psalm 27:1, 4-9

1 Corinthians 1:10-18 (1^st mention of divisions in Church; message of Cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but the power of God to those being saved)

Matthew 4:12-25 (In the region mentioned by Isaiah, Jesus begins his ministry – “Repent; the      kingdom of Heaven has come near” – and calls his first disciples)

Let us pray that the light of Christ may shine upon the Church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence

Lord, sometimes we think you see us only “From a distance.” Sometimes that’s right where we want you! But in Christ, you have promised to be God-with-Us, Emmanuel. Be gentle, Father, as you shed your holy light on our sin-darkened world! Thank you for the grace and comfort of your Holy Spirit, who helps us to repent and to delight in your “joyous light of glory.”

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

The world scorns the Cross as folly and stumbling block. Therefore, give your Church faith, courage, and wit as it proclaims Christ crucified as the only means of forgiveness, salvation, and life with you forever. Make it lovely with the light of Jesus’ strong saving love for us sinners.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Bring light and clarity to the people of this congregation, so that every act of worship, fellowship, outreach, stewardship, service, study, and support is centered in Christ alone.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We pray for all who are persecuted on account Christ. Keep them steadfast in faith and gracious in witness. Soften the hearts of their enemies, and bring them to repentant faith in Jesus.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

This is a hard prayer, Father: to pray for the evil and wicked; for abusers and killers, cheaters and deserters, and those who commit every sort of despicable act. When their victims cannot forgive, help us to pray the prayer they cannot: Forgive, dear Lord. Cause the wicked to repent of their evil ways and cling to the Cross of Christ as their only hope.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Shine the light of reason, justice, and mercy into the minds of our earthly rulers. Make them want to do your will and benefit the people entrusted to their care. Remind them that they, and all who have power and authority in society, must give an account of their stewardship to you, the Lord and ruler of all. And bestow upon us all a measure of your peace.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Bring healing, hope, and the light of your dear presence to everyone who sits in the darkness of suffering, shame, or sorrow. Especially we pray for: {List}. Let them, and all who care for them, say with confident joy: The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom then shall I fear?!

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Lord, you are the imperishable light, even in the darkness of death, for all who cling to you. We entrust our beloved dead to you, and we commend our lives to you as well. Be the lamp to our feet and light to our path throughout our earthly pilgrimage. For the sake of Jesus, lead us, and all whom you redeem, into your bright courts of heaven, and into your endless day.

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.

THE PRAYERS, January 15, 2023: 2^nd Sunday after the Epiphany

Isaiah 49:1-7 (God’s Servant given as light to all nations)

Psalm 40:1-11 (Happy are they who make the Lord their trust; he does not require burnt

            offerings but a willing heart)

1 Corinthians 1:1-9 (Thanksgiving that the Corinthians are enriched with every spiritual gift)

John 1:29-42a (John says, “Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world!” 

2 of his disciples become Jesus’ disciples)

Let us pray that the light of Christ may shine upon the Church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence

Thank you, Father, for Jesus. Thank you for making him our doorway into your heart. Thank you for making him your dear Lamb, the sacrifice for our sin. Thank you for making him the light of the world, and of our lives.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Lord, cause your Church to preach like John the Baptist. May it always point to Jesus, and say, “Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.” Prune away every program or teaching that does not serve that end. Let Jesus use the Church to draw new disciples to himself, and to shape them into his likeness.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Make disciples of everyone in this congregation. Help us to use our spiritual gifts to glorify you and build up our community of faith. Make us bold to tell others, “We have found him of whom the Scriptures speak! Come and see the Son of God who takes away the sins of the world!”

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Bless the Church wherever it is persecuted on account of Jesus. By its patient witness, turn its enemies from hatred to repentance. For missionaries throughout the world, for our seminaries, church colleges, and schools, and for all who seek to proclaim the Gospel in word and deed, we also lift our hands, hearts, and voices in fervent supplication.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Tomorrow we commemorate the life of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Thank you for his witness. Teach us to value one another not based on race, creed, or gender, but because you have created all people in your image, and have given your Son as the sacrifice for all our sin. By your Holy Spirit, make the content of our character reflect your will, so that we treat each other with respect, justice, and charity.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Enlighten the minds and purify the hearts of those who take counsel for the nations. Turn them from the idols of power, prestige, and ideology, and teach them your ways. Heal the divisions that beset our country. Bestow your favor upon it, so it may be a beacon of righteousness, justice, and freedom for all.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Stoop down, O Lord, and hear the cry of all who are afflicted by suffering or sorrow, especially: {List}. Lift them out of their desolation; make their footing sure; and put a new song into their mouths. Restore them to all who love them. Let them proclaim your merciful deliverance.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Most gracious Father, thank you for those who have died to us, but whose lives are safely in your hand. Sustain us with that same strong and merciful hand. Help us trust and follow Jesus as he touches the lives of those who need him so much. Sustained in fellowship with Christ and his family, may we be found guiltless on that day when he is revealed to the world. Then, make us fit to dwell with him in the glory he shares with you and the Holy Spirit forever.

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.

THE PRAYERS, January 8, 2023: The Baptism of Our Lord

Isaiah 42:1-9 (God’s servant will not crush a bruised reed; he is given as light to nations, to open blind eyes and free prisoners of darkness)

Psalm 29 (The voice of the Lord; all cry “Glory!”)

Romans 6:1-11 (We have been baptized into Christ’s death and resurrection)

RCL/ELW: Acts 10:34-43 (Peter preaches sermon to newly-baptized Gentiles)

Matthew 3:13-17 (Jesus comes to John in the Jordan and is baptized)

Let us pray that the light of Christ may shine upon the Church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence

Holy God, holy and mighty, holy and immortal, we adore you! Blessed Father, Glorious Son, most Holy Spirit, you reveal your heart to us in the Baptism of Jesus. By the Spirit’s power, unite us to Christ so completely that we may hear the Father say to each of us, “You are my beloved son, my beloved daughter; in you I am well pleased.”

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Fill the Church throughout the world with your Spirit. Bind it to your Son, your Word of truth. Adorn it with your goodness, holiness, and love. Make it fruitful in discipleship. Use it to lead many to the waters of Baptism, there to be made your beloved children.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Be enthroned, O Lord, in the midst of this congregation. Overwhelm us with your majesty and mercy. Fill our worship with the beauty of holiness. Strengthen us to do your will. Conform us to the heart and mind of Jesus. Bestow on us your peace.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Do not quench the spirit or break the hearts of your persecuted servants, O Lord; nor let them be discouraged when they suffer on account Christ. Give them such patience and faith that their tormentors turn to you and repent. For missionaries throughout the world; for all who wonder if they are called to be pastors; for all our seminarians, professors, pastors, bishops, and other ministers, we also lift our hearts and voices in fervent supplication.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Bless everyone who is baptized today, and all who remember and give thanks for their Baptism. Thank you for adopting us as brothers and sisters of your dear Son, and for filling us with the same Spirit that descended upon him. Make us radiant with his holiness and lovely with his compassion. Let us glorify you in all we say and do.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Put your Spirit upon the leaders of this and every nation. Establish your justice through them throughout the world. Give them the wisdom and the will to protect and provide for their people, especially those who are like “bruised reeds and faintly burning wicks.” Make them prefer mercy over might; righteousness over renown; and integrity over influence.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Keep in your care all who take up arms in defense of liberty and justice for all. Give them a spirit of wisdom and understanding, counsel and might, so their deeds conform to your will. Bring them safely home, and speed the day when deeds of war need not be done anymore.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We beseech you on behalf of everyone afflicted by suffering, especially those who crave our prayers, including: {List}. Bring them out of the dungeon of suffering and the prison of darkness. Lead them into the brightness of your presence and the company of all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Holy God, holy and mighty, holy and immortal: we praise and adore you for the mercy you have shown to all who have died to us but are alive eternally to you. Grant that we, who have passed through the waters of Baptism, may walk the broken pathways of this mortal life, refreshed by your Spirit, and conformed to your Son. By your grace, bring us through the floodwaters of death into your presence, where with all your redeemed children we may worship and adore you in the beauty of your holiness forever.

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.

THE PRAYERS, January 6, 2023: The Epiphany of Our Lord

Isaiah 60:1-6 (Arise, shine, your light has come; nations stream to Israel, bringing gifts)

Psalm 72:1-11 (Prayer for guidance and support for the King)

            RCL/ELW: Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14

Ephesians 3:1-12 (The mystery of salvation revealed to Gentiles; Paul has become steward of      God’s mysteries so that through the Church, nations may know God’s wisdom)

Matthew 2:1-12 (The magi adore Jesus, bringing gifts, departing by another way)

Let us pray that the light of Christ may shine upon the Church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence

Heavenly Father, thank you for the Light of the World, your dear Son! Thank you that in him, you reveal your mercy and loving-kindness to all people. Thank you that in him, you reveal yourself as Lord and God of all, until the world ends and Christ is all in all.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Make your Church a faithful steward of the mysteries of Christ. Raise up faithful pastors and teachers of your Word and holy Sacraments. May the Church’s worship, fellowship, and acts of charity be as frankincense, gold, and myrrh offered to her infant Redeemer.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Make this congregation a place where even sinners, strangers, and Gentiles encounter the living Christ. Shape us into “magi” who eagerly seek, study, and worship Jesus. And send us home “by a different way” – as his disciples and his sisters and brothers.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

As you guarded the magi from Herod’s malice, we pray that you would protect and bless your Church wherever it suffers from the malice of persecutors or the scorn of its despisers.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We pray on behalf of scholars and teachers; scientists and philosophers; and especially seminary professors and students. Increase their numbers and their zeal for seeking your truth! Give them grace to adore you, the source of truth and wisdom. And give them generous hearts, to freely share their wisdom, knowledge, curiosity, and faith.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Put your Spirit upon the leaders of this and every nation, that they may faithfully bring forth and establish justice throughout the world. Give them the wisdom and the will to rightly protect and provide for their people, especially those who are like “bruised reeds and faintly burning wicks.” Make them prefer mercy over might; righteousness over renown; and integrity over influence.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We lift before you the men and women in the armed forces, and those are police, first responders, and others charged with protecting life and liberty. Grant them such integrity and courage that those whose lives are most in danger may call on them with confidence. Bring them safely home to their loved ones; and heal those who are wounded in body, mind or soul.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Bring the light of Christ to everyone who dwells in the shadows of suffering, sin or sorrow, especially those we lift before you now, including: {list}. Give competence, compassion, and patience to everyone charged with their care; and grant health and hope according to your merciful wisdom.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We thank you for the lives of all your faithful servants who through word and example have been stewards of your Gospel. Give to us wisdom and devotion, so that we seek your will throughout our earthly life; and give us the strength and the means to do it. And, in your good time, lead us “by another way” to the eternal home and inheritance you have prepared for all who are redeemed by your beloved Son. For there, we will adore your glorious wisdom and delight in your merciful love in the power of your Holy Spirit forever.

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.

The Prayers, January 1, 2023: Circumcision and Name Day of Jesus

Numbers 6:22-27 (The Aaronic, priestly benediction)

Psalm 8 (Divine majesty and human dignity)

Galatians 3:23-29 (The law was our disciplinarian; now we are clothed in Christ)

Luke 2:21 (Jesus is named at his circumcision)

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

A brief silence

Thank you, Jesus, for taking on our human nature and submitting yourself to your own Law. Thank you for shedding your blood, even as a tiny child, for our sake. Thank you that you do the very thing your name announces: you save your people from their sin.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Purify your Church throughout the world with your precious blood. In everything it proclaims and does, may it honorably bear your sacred Name.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Purify this congregation with your precious blood. Let our worship, fellowship, service, and mission always glorify your sacred Name.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Purify your persecuted servants with your precious blood. Let their patience in suffering and steadfast faith bear witness to your sacred Name.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Purify the nations and their leaders with your precious blood. Let justice and mercy abound, and let all peoples live in harmony and good will. In all things, let us praise your sacred Name.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

The new calendar year speaks of hope and new beginnings. Purify our days and deeds with your precious blood. Let all our deeds begin, continue, and find their perfect end in you, the Hope of all nations and our heart’s desire. Thus may we forever bless your sacred Name.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Purify and heal through your precious Blood all who suffer any kind of evil of body or soul. Especially we pray for: {List}. Visit them with “tidings of comfort and joy,” that they may stand in your light to praise your sacred Name.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Thank you, dear Jesus, for redeeming with your precious blood all who died trusting in you. Cheer our hearts with your blessings as we begin this new year and continue our earthly pilgrimage. Help us to encourage and strengthen each other, always looking to your Cross to guide us through the darkest days. Lead us into your bright courts of heaven, and into that endless day in which all whom you have redeemed shall forever adore your sacred Name.

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 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.

THE PRAYERS, Advent 3, Cycle A

December 11, 2022: Advent 3

Isaiah 35:1-10 (The wilderness rejoices when God comes to it)

Psalm 146 (The Lord sets prisoners free, opens eyes of blind)

            ELW/RCL: Ps. 146:5-10 (eliminates “do not put trust in rulers”)

or Luke 1:46b-55 (The Magnificat)

James 5:7-11 (Be patient until the Lord comes)

Matthew 11:2-15 (Jesus addresses John’s disciples: blind see, poor hear the Gospel; violence attends coming of Kingdom)

            ELW/RCL: Matthew 11:2-11 (Eliminates bit about violence)

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

How sweet the words we hear this day, dear Lord! Thank you for refreshment along our life’s often-dusty road. Thank you for hope that dawns unexpectedly in our heart’s wilderness. Thank you for Jesus, your sweetest Word of forgiveness, compassion, and life.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Grant that “in many and various ways,” your Church may constantly preach the Good News of what Jesus has done: “the blind receive their sight and the lame walk; lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear; the dead are raised up; and the poor have good news preached to them.”

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Establish this congregation, O Lord, in words and deeds of patience, mercy, and goodness. Help us to refresh the heavy-hearted; to heal those wounded by sin and sorrow; and to enlighten the innocent and the ignorant. Make this place a haven of safety and joy for all who trust in you.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Bless your persecuted Church, and keep it patient, faithful and steadfast. Teach us to honor their witness and provide for their needs. Turn their tormentors from their evil ways.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Deepen the faith and increase the wisdom of your apprentices and journeyman in the art of discipleship. May all they learn from you may bring joy and enlightenment to others.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Conform our earthly rulers to your holy will. Let them give justice to the oppressed, and food to the hungry. Make them set free the unjustly imprisoned, and lift up those who are bowed down.  Teach them to love the righteous; care for the stranger; sustain the orphan and widow, and frustrate the way of the wicked. Use the valor and competence of our military and first responders to accomplish your will in dangerous places. Speed the day when everyone may walk in safety and tranquility throughout this world.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We remember before you all for whom this season of light is shadowed by sorrow or suffering, especially: {List}. Equip us to touch their lives with gentleness and hope; to speak words of forgiveness and encouragement; and to accompany them in their wilderness. Grant them the sure hope that you will embrace us all in your everlasting arms.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Happy are those who, in this life, put their trust in you, dear Lord. Their hope has been fulfilled. Comfort all the bereaved whose grief runs deep. And we pray: Save us from folly and defend us from evil. Strengthen our faltering hands and make firm our feeble knees. Establish our hearts in steadfast patience and the spirit of encouragement. Lead us into Zion, where, with all the redeemed, we shall praise your glory; delight in your love; and see you face to face.

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.

THE PRAYERS, Advent 2, Cycle A

December 4, 2022: Advent 2

Isaiah 11:1-10 (A shoot springs up from Jesse’s root; God’s Spirit is upon him)

Psalm 72:1-10 (Prayer for the King’s son to rule with justice)

            ELW/RCL: Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19

Romans 15:4-13 (Live in harmony; Gentiles have also received God’s mercy)

Matthew 3:1-12(John the Baptist: prepare the way of the Lord!)

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

Come quickly, Lord! Thank you for promising to deliver us from sin, evil, and death – but even so, come quickly! Thank you for being our King, Savior, Healer, and Redeemer – but come quickly to establish your reign, perfectly and forever.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Come quickly, righteous Branch from Jesse’s root. Make your Church holy, faithful, and tireless in proclaiming your coming. By its words and deeds, lead many to repentance and faith in you.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Come quickly, King foretold by prophets. Rule in our hearts and in this congregation. Grant us your gracious Spirit. Help us to show your mercy to fellow sinners, and to live in your peace.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Come quickly, righteous and faithful Savior. Vindicate those who are persecuted on account of your holy Name. Decide with equity on their behalf. Lay low the wicked who refuse to repent. And hasten the day when no one shall hurt or destroy on your holy mountain.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Come quickly, wise counsellor. Direct the thoughts and actions of seminarians and all who are called into holy ministry. Grant them right judgment, godly actions, and joy in your presence. Bestow your Spirit upon them, and upon missionaries, evangelists, teachers, and theologians, until the whole earth is full of the knowledge of your saving mercy.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Come quickly, Ensign and signal to all peoples. Establish your glorious and gentle rule among the nations. Teach our earthly leaders to judge with righteousness, to deliberate with equity, and to care for the poor and needy in their charge. Give us grace to live in peace and to be merciful, even when that is hard.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Come quickly, gentle Savior. Protect our little ones from every danger and harm. Keep them safe from the fangs of predators and abusers, the poison of sickness and despair, the venom of lies and hateful words, and the claws of warfare and every form of violence. Protect their innocence and help us to raise them in knowledge, fear, and joy in the Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Come quickly, King of Mercy. Banish those things which trouble your people in body, mind, heart or soul. Especially we lift before you all who crave your healing touch: {List}. Keep them safe from every evil, and restore them to health, hope, and fellowship with all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Come quickly, Lord of Life. Reunite us with all the saints who from their labors rest. As we walk through life’s dark shadows and winding pathways, bestow on us your righteousness, wisdom, and mercy. Help us to withstand the bitter challenges we face, and support one another along our pilgrim road. Bring us to your holy mountain, where with all the redeemed, we shall delight in your presence and sing of your mercy and love forever.

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.