Prayers, August 28: 12^th Sunday after Pentecost, C (Proper 17)

Proverbs 25:2-10 (Words about kings; behaving in the King’s presence; keeping confidences)

            ELW/RCL: Proverbs 25:6-7 (Only about comporting self in king’s presence)

Psalm 131 (I do not occupy myself with things too great and marvelous)

            ELW/RCL: Psalm 112 (The righteous and just are blessed by God)

Hebrews 13:1-17 (Words of advice about many things)

            ELW/RCL: Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16 (Eliminates “Don’t be led away by strange teachings,” Jesus’ death “outside the camp”)

Luke 14:1-14 (Healing on Sabbath; taking the lowest seat at the banquet table)

            ELW/RCL: Luke 14: 1, 7-14 (Eliminates healing on Sabbath)

Let us pray in the name of Jesus to our heavenly Father for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Gracious Father, thank you for making us like Jesus! Joined to him, who humbled himself for our sake, we too can be humble, without being doormats. Transformed by his Spirit, we can live in faith toward you and in fervent love for others. Thank you! Make us more and more the living image of your Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Fill your Church with obedient, humble faith in Christ alone. Give it pastors, bishops, theologians and lay leaders who speak your truth in love. By your Holy Spirit, inspire compassionate deeds and holy lives among all who name Jesus Christ as Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless the people of this congregation. Help us to remember that we always speak, act, and live in the presence of Christ our King. Let the way we treat everyone reflect his strong saving love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Calm the fears and give comfort and strength to your persecuted servants throughout the world. By their humble witness, cause their enemies to repent and to turn to you, their only King, Lord and God.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless this land with peace, justice, prosperity, concord, and integrity. Guide our leaders, and all who take counsel for the nations, so that they may always remember that they must give an account of their deliberations and deeds to you, the King of the Nations.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We are too fascinated by power, prestige, and popularity. Give us the grace to notice, and cherish, the humble and lowly who do your will. More than that, make us like Jesus, who is gentle and lowly of heart.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Those burdened with pain, sorrow, and adversity need the strength and healing that only you can give. We pray on their behalf, especially for: {List}. Quiet their fears, heal their bodies, minds, and hearts, and renew their hope. Bless all who care for them. Give them refreshment and resources to continue their ministry of loving service.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heavenly Father, thank you for receiving all who have died trusting in you. Quiet the souls of all who mourn. Teach us to live trustfully as your dear children. Lead us into your house, where with all whom you have redeemed, we will rest in your arms, delight in your goodness, and adore 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.  AMEN.

Prayers, August 21, 2013: 11^th Sunday after Pentecost, C (Proper 16)

Isaiah 66:18-23 (All nations shall worship the Lord and be his priests)

                ELW/RCL: Isaiah 58:9-14 (Do justice, and God will bless you)

Psalm 50:1-15 (Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, the Lord shines forth; he desires the sacrifice of thanksgiving, not of beasts)

                ELW/RCL: Psalm 103:1-8 (Bless the Lord, O my soul, for God’s mercy and justice)

Hebrews 12: 4-29 (Your suffering is how God disciplines beloved children. Pursue peace and holiness. You’ve come to Christ, whose blood speaks better word than Abel; don’t refuse him!)

                ELW/RCL: Hebrews 12:18-29 (Eliminates exhortation to faithfulness, holy living, God’s discipline of those he loves)

Luke 13:22-30 (Jesus says: strive to enter by the narrow gate, or you will see Abraham and the prophets enter the Kingdom, but you will be locked outside)

                ELW/RCL: Luke 13:10-17 (Jesus heals the woman bent over)

Let us pray for the Church, the world, and for one another.

A brief silence

Heavenly Father, thank you for showing us what you would have us do, even when it is hard. Give us strength and grace to worship you in the beauty of holiness, and to share your love, justice, and mercy with others. Thank you for establishing for us a kingdom that can never be shaken.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lead the Church you love in the narrow way of peace, holiness, and truth. Make it a trustworthy, open gate to Christ. Lead all who are wounded in soul and body to the salvation he offers them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Touch the hearts of the people gathered here with your beauty and goodness. Make our words gracious and our deeds lovely. Make of us a kingdom of priests, holy in your sight; and a family of servants, faithfully doing your will.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Join the sufferings of your persecuted Church to those of Christ. Give it a gracious word of testimony, truth, and forgiveness, so that its tormentors may repent and be saved.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bring to fruition Isaiah’s vision that all nations shall serve and worship you. Give leaders the strength and desire to work for for peace, righteousness, and justice for all people – especially the poor and those devastated by human malice or natural disaster. Help all of us to be true neighbors to one another.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

The school year fast approaches, to mingled dread and anticipation. Give students joy in learning and diligence in study. Help their teachers and aides to convey true love of their subject matter. Make them gentle disciplinarians, inspiring mentors, and worthy examples to their students.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant healing, hope and strength to everyone who suffers, especially: {List}. Assure them of your loving presence, and let them enter into your gates with thanksgiving and into your courts with praise.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy Father, receive into your Kingdom our beloved dead. Keep us faithful and true, holy and steadfast, as we walk the narrow Way established by Jesus. Give us hope and joy along that way. Help us encourage one another. Bring us into that Kingdom which you have promised to all whom you redeem by the sufferings of Christ. There let us know the unspeakable joy of abiding in your love forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Hear our prayers, gracious Father, offered through the power of the Spirit; and for the sake of your dear Son, grant us all that is in accordance with your merciful will, to your glory and for the good of your people. AMEN.

Prayers, August 14: 10^th Sunday after Pentecost, C (Proper 15)

OR Mary, Mother of Our Lord (transferred)

Pentecost 10 lessons and hymns:

Jeremiah 23:16-29 (Beware of false prophets who prophesy peace and plenty; God will act against wicked; his word is like fire and hammer)

                ELW/RCL: Jeremiah 23:23-29 (Eliminates warning against false prophets)

Psalm 119:81-88 (My soul longs for your salvation; I am persecuted but shall remain faithful)

                ELW/RCL: Psalm 82 (God calls for justice; psalmist prays God should enact justice)

Hebrews 11:17-31 (32-40); 12:1-3 (Old Testament roll call of faith; we are surrounded by great cloud of witnesses; run faith’s race; looking to Christ the pioneer and perfector of our faith)

                        ELW/RCL: Hebrews 11:29-12:2 (Eliminates some stories of faithfulness)

Luke 12:49-56 (Jesus will cast fire on earth, completing his baptism; interpret signs of times!)

Let us pray for the Church, the world, and for one another.

A brief silence

Father, sometimes your word dismays us! We don’t like to hear about divine fire, judgment, and division. Make us brave and steadfast in faith. Give us ears to rightly hear, and hearts to rightly repent. Give us grace to show the fruits of repentant faith, to your glory and for the good of your people.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make your Church a faithful witness to your Word. When it must speak of fire, judgment, or sin, let it do so humbly and lovingly, but also honestly and fearlessly. Help it always point to Jesus, the merciful pioneer and perfector of our faith, and the longed-for Salvation of the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Renew the faith, increase the zeal, and strengthen the deeds of everyone in this congregation. Cast the purifying fire of your Holy Spirit in our midst, so that all we say and do is in accordance with your Word. Use us to accomplish your will in the lives of our neighbors.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We are surrounded by a cloud of faithful witnesses, including Christians who are persecuted in this age of “tolerance and diversity.” Strengthen and encourage us by their example. Give them patient and steadfast hearts. And burn away the sin from the hearts of all who hate them, and you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Establish your peace among all people of this world. No plan or project of ours can heal the seeds of wickedness and violence in our hearts. Thus we plead: heal, purify, guide and direct the people and the leaders of every human endeavor, in accordance with your will and for our common good.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Until your peace is established, good men and women must risk their lives to protect others. We pray for all of them. Direct their decisions and deeds, so that even places of chaos and violence may begin to know your peace. Bring them safely home, and bless their hearts and lives with that same peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for everyone who is afflicted by the powers of sin, suffering, and sorrow. Especially we remember before you: {List}.  Be their sure hope and strong deliverer. Strengthen their faith in times of trial. Bring them safely into the fellowship of those who love them and into closer communion with you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heavenly Father, we commend our departed loved ones into your care. Renew to us the promise you make to all the faithful: that “when through fiery trials your pathway shall lie, my grace, all-sufficient, shall be your supply.” Keep our faith steadfast and firm in your excellent Word, until that day when you bear us in your bosom into your everlasting Kingdom, and make us stand before you with all whom you have upheld by your righteous, omnipotent hand.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Hear our prayers, gracious Father, offered through the power of the Spirit; and for the sake of your dear Son, grant us all that is in accordance with your merciful will, to your glory and for the good of your people. AMEN.

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Mary, Mother of Our Lord Lessons and Prayers

Isaiah 61:7-11 (I will rejoice greatly in the Lord, who has clothed me with garment of salvation, robe of righteousness, like a bride)

Psalm 45 (The princess approaches the king, dressed in glorious apparel)

Galatians 4:4-7 (Jesus born of a woman, so we may with him say Abba, Father to God

Luke 1:46-55 (The Magnificat)

For the Church, the world, and needs of all people, let us pray to the Lord.

A brief silence

Most gracious Father, with Mary we cry out, “My soul magnifies the Lord! My spirit rejoices in God my Savior!” Thank you for your dear Son, flesh of our flesh and bone of our bone, born of the Virgin Mary. Thank you for giving us, through him, the privilege of calling you Abba, Father.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Mary bore Jesus to the world in her body. Grant that your Church bears him to the world through its worship, words, witness, and works.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give wisdom, graciousness, and prudence to all who are persecuted for Jesus’ sake. Use their witness to strengthen our faith and to call their tormentors to repentance and salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Fill the members of our congregation with the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, counsel and might, knowledge and fear of the Lord, and joy in your presence. Help us gladly and graciously magnify your greatness in all we say and do.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless parents, foster-parents, and all who care for your little ones. Fill them with the same Spirit who overshadowed Mary, so that they may raise up their children in godliness and integrity.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give our earthly leaders prudence and wisdom. Remind them that you cast down the arrogant from their thrones but lift up the lowly. Teach them to fill the hungry with good things that sustain bodies and souls in hope, health, and peace..

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You hear the cries of the righteous and of all who suffer. Hear and graciously answer our prayers on behalf of all who are afflicted by pain, grief, shame, or despair, including: {List}. Restore their health, hope, and joy in the company of all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Father, thank you for all who died clinging to Mary’s Son and yours. Strengthen our faith in Jesus, and fill us with your Spirit. Lead us into your Kingdom, where with Mary and all the redeemed, we will rejoice and magnify you forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayers, August 7: 9^th Sunday after Pentecost, C (Proper 14)

Genesis 15:1-6 (Abram’s faith is reckoned to him as righteousness)

Psalm 33:12-22 (Happy is nation whose God is the Lord; he is our strength and shield; he delivers soul from death; trust in him!)

Hebrews 11:1-16 (Faith is conviction of things not seen; patriarchs, especially Abraham, saw God’s promises afar off and welcomed them; God not ashamed to be their God.)

                ELW/RCL: Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16 (Eliminates roll call of pre-Abraham faithful)

Luke 12:22-34 (35-40) (Part of Sermon on the Plain: consider lilies of the field; do not worry; where your treasure is, there is your heart also; be watchful for Son of Man’s coming)

                ELW/RCL: Luke 12:32-40 (Eliminates lilies, seek first the kingdom)

Let us pray for the Church, the world, and for one another.

A brief silence

Thank you, dear Father, for the beauty of earth, sea, and sky. Thank you for blessings without number, and for your great faithfulness. Increase our faith and gratitude, and give us joy amidst suffering and comfort in sadness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Adorn your Church with faith as steadfast as Abraham’s, and as lovely as the lilies of the field. Make it a storehouse for the treasures of heaven. Let it graciously and generously share those treasures with all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless this congregation with deep faith, untroubled hearts, kindly spirits, and loving deeds. Remind us that our treasures are not found in buildings, bank accounts, programs, or progress. Give us eyes to see our treasure in the souls of those whom you have loved, forgiven, and redeemed.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless and guide all who are discipleship guides, spiritual directors, and pastoral mentors. Give them grace to lead others along the path of obedience, love, and faithfulness to you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Send your Spirit abroad in the world, so that people in every land may say, “Happy is the nation whose God is the Lord; he is our strength and shield.” Help us to find our treasure not in possessions and power, but in faith toward you and in fervent love toward one another.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Be the strength and shield of all who risk their life in defense of others. Help them act with wisdom, integrity, and competence. When their work is done, let their homecomings be joyful, their bodies and minds be healed and refreshed, their service be honored, and their skills be used in new ways.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant healing, hope, and faith to all who are afflicted pain or sorrow. Especially we lift before you the needs of: {List}.  Let the love, mercy and goodness of bless all who suffer. Give gentle hands and patient hearts to those who care for them; and restore them to fellowship with all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Gracious Father, we thank you for receiving, as treasures and as your dear children, all who have died trusting in you. Keep our hearts firmly fixed on your mercy and loving-kindness toward us. Help us to encourage and help one another. Remind us of the treasures of eternal life and salvation that you have stored up for us through the merits of your dear Son. Bring us into your Kingdom, where, with all of your treasured people, we may enjoy those treasures and delight in your goodness forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Hear our prayers, gracious Father, offered through the power of the Spirit; and for the sake of your dear Son, grant us all that is in accordance with your merciful will, to your glory and for the good of your people. AMEN.

Prayers, July 31: 8^th Sunday after Pentecost, C (Proper 13)

Ecclesiastes 1:2, 12-14; 2:18-26 (Vanity of vanities, all is vanity…)

                RCL/ELW: Ecclesiastes 1:2, 12-14; 2:18-23 (Eliminates what God gives to righteous, sinners; all is still vanity!)

Psalm 100 (Praise the Lord, enter his courts with thanksgiving. He is good; his mercy endures forever.)

                ELW/RCL: Psalm 49:1-12 (I shall speak wisdom; none can ransom their life. Wealthy, poor, wise, fool all die)

Colossians 3:1-11(You have died; your life is hidden in Christ and will be revealed in his glory. Therefore put away all evil deeds; be clothed in Christ; all will be like him!)

Luke 12:13-21 (Parable of the rich fool)

Let us pray for the Church, the world, and for one another.

A brief silence

Heavenly Father, you bless greatly, us even when we think we have very little! You give us life and breath. Each new day gives us a chance to repent, forgive, and share Jesus’ love with another person. Help us to thank you for these things, to enjoy them rightly; and to share them generously.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Clothe your Church with Christ. Put away from it all evil desires, words, and deeds. Fill it with your Spirit, so it abounds in every good gift, overflows with Jesus’ life, and leads many to faith in him.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Fill the people of this congregation with wisdom and humility. Remind us that everything is done for you, not for ourselves, and that we must one day render an accounting of our stewardship of your blessings. Make us faithful, generous, and holy. Use us to draw many people into your fatherly embrace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Keep your persecuted Church in your care, and bless their faithful witness. Help us to provide for our suffering sisters and brothers from the storehouses of our spiritual and material abundance.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for your blessing upon our nation – and for all nations. Guide our leaders with your Spirit of wisdom and understanding, counsel and might. Remind them that they must give to you an account of how they have used the power and authority entrusted to them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord, lead us on the hard path of discipleship. Teach us virtues that are often unpopular: responsibility, accountability, and self-sacrifice, grounded in faith toward you and fervent love for one another.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We lift before you the suffering and sorrow of your people, especially: {List}. Anoint them with the oil of gladness. Heal wounds to body, mind, and soul. Grant that, with those who love them, they may enter your gates with thanksgiving, and go into your courts with praise.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heavenly Father, keep our beloved dead close to your heart.  Comfort all whose grief runs deep. By the power of your Spirit, turn our hearts from the folly of sin. Keep us focused on Jesus and his love for us. Make us channels of his forgiveness and grace, because so many people need them. By your mercy, bring us into your Kingdom, where with all the redeemed, we shall praise and adore you forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Hear our prayers, gracious Father, offered through the power of the Spirit; and for the sake of your dear Son, grant us all that is in accordance with your merciful will, to your glory and for the good of your people. AMEN.

Prayers of the Church July 24, 2022

St. James the Elder (Transferred)

1 Kings 19:9-18: (Elijah meets God at Horeb)

Psalm 7:1-11: David’s prayer against his persecutors)

Acts 11:27-12:3a: (Severe famine in Judea; James’ death at hand of Herod)

Mark 10:35-45: (James and John want special favors; are they able to drink Jesus’ cup, be baptized with his baptism?)

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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

Father, your servants Elijah and James knew the cost of obedience to your will. Thank you for their witness. Thank you for their steadfast faith. Like them, keep us faithful, true, and bold, always glorifying your holy Name and building up the Body of Christ.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify the testimony of your Church, so that it never wavers in the face of persecution. Keep it persistent in prayer and gracious in service. Let it never depart from the faith once delivered to the saints. Make it beautiful with holiness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for the persecuted Church; for all who face martyrdom at the hands of those who despise the Name of Jesus; and for missionaries who bravely preach the Gospel to an unheeding world. Keep them steadfast in faith, fervent in hope, and constant in love for you and for all whom you long to save.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Draw the people of this congregation into a life of prayer with you. Help us to ask for your mercy; to seek your guidance; and to knock at the door of your heart. Give us the courage and love to invite family, friends, and neighbors into a closer walk with you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Keep this country in your care. Guide our leaders in paths of righteousness. Help us to preserve and extend the blessings of liberty and justice for all. Give health and safety to all people; and establish your Kingdom among us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for our enemies; for those who are estranged from us; for those who work to harm us; and for all whose hearts are full of bitterness, malice, perversion, and other evils. Transform them, and conform them to your will. Help us to forgive them as you have forgiven us. And heal all our hearts, so that we reflect the holiness and mercy of your dear Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant strength, comfort, and hope to everyone who needs your healing and loving presence, especially: {List}. Thank you for all who care for them in their time of need. Bless them with patience and kindness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Father, keep in your care all who died clinging to the promises which have their Yes in Christ. Comfort those who mourn. Give each of us the daily bread we need throughout our earthly pilgrimage. Help us to readily give and humbly ask for forgiveness. Strengthen us when we are tempted to turn aside from your good will; and deliver us from the snares of the Evil One. Bring us into the Kingdom that you have prepared for all whom you have redeemed through the merits of your dear Son, so that in the power of the Holy Spirit, we may praise, adore, and bless 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. Amen.

Prayers, July 24, 2022: 7^th Sunday after Pentecost, C (Proper 12)

Genesis 18:17-33 (Abraham pleads with God: don’t destroy Sodom and Gomorrah if ten righteous people are found)

            ELW/RCL: Genesis 18:20-32 (Eliminates God debating whether to tell Abraham what he is about to do, and a concluding verse)

Psalm 138 (God is holy; his love endures; he regards the lowly, sends the haughty far away)

Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19) (Live rooted in Christ; in Baptism, you are dead to trespasses, alive to Him. Don’t get fussed about non-essentials; cling to Christ, the Head!)

Luke 11:1-13 (Lord, teach us to pray; Lord’s Prayer; ask-seek-knock)

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

Father, we have grown so used to praying to you that sometimes we forget what a privilege it is! Forgive us when we become careless, forgetful, or presumptuous. By your Spirit’s leading, make us eager to stand with Jesus’ arm around our shoulders, confidently and lovingly calling you “Abba, Father,” and talking with you about everything.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Keep your Church firmly rooted and grounded in Christ, its Head. Make it dead to sin and alive to righteousness. Give it the faith and the words to pray continually for the needs of all people, and for their salvation. Give it the strength and will to act in accordance with your will.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Draw the people of this congregation into a life of prayer with you. Help us to ask for your mercy; to seek your guidance; and to knock at the door of your heart. Give us the courage and love to invite family, friends, and neighbors into a closer walk with you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Deliver your persecuted servants from evil.  Help them to pray for their enemies. Help us to pray for them and with them. And guide and strengthen all missionaries. Help them find and use ways to introduce unbelievers to your dear Son, until all hearts are tuned to your praise.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Keep this country in your care. Guide our leaders in paths of righteousness. Help us to preserve and extend the blessings of liberty and justice for all. Give health and safety to all people; and establish your Kingdom among us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for our enemies; for those who are estranged from us; for those who work to harm us; and for all whose hearts are full of bitterness, malice, perversion, and other evils. Transform them, and conform them to your will. Help us to forgive them as you have forgiven us. And heal all our hearts, so that we reflect the holiness and mercy of your dear Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Hear the prayers of those who ask for healing; who seek for comfort; and who knock on doors that they fear are shut. We especially remember before you: {List}. Graciously answer them from the wellsprings of your mercy and steadfast love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Father, keep in your care all who died clinging to the promises which have their Yes in Christ. Comfort those who mourn. Give each of us the daily bread we need throughout our earthly pilgrimage. Help us to readily give and humbly ask for forgiveness. Strengthen us when we are tempted to turn aside from your good will; and deliver us from the snares of the Evil One. Bring us into the Kingdom that you have prepared for all whom you have redeemed through the merits of your dear Son, so that in the power of the Holy Spirit, we may praise, adore and bless 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. Amen.

Prayers, July 17: 6^th Sunday after Pentecost, C (Proper 11)

Genesis 18:1-14 (Abraham and Sarah entertain 3 divine visitors; they’re promised a son)

                ELW/RCL: Genesis 18:1-10 (Eliminates Sarah laughing)

Psalm 27: (1-6), 7-14 (The Lord is my light and salvation; whom shall I fear?  I’ll seek his face.)  

                ELW/RCL: Psalm 15 (Those who are blameless dwell with God)

Colossians 1:21-29 (The mysteries of God now revealed, including to the Gentiles; for His sake, Paul suffers, teaches, prays, warns, works to present Colossians as mature believers)

                ELW/RCL: Colossians 1:15-28 (Adds description of Christ, “firstborn of creation”)

Luke 10:38-42 (Mary and Martha entertain 1 divine visitor!)

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

Lord, thank you for the gift of hospitality. You let us entertain angels unaware! Give us generous hearts, so we may refresh and gladden the hearts of others. Fill us with your Spirit, so that by faith, we may gratefully receive the hospitality of heaven, given to us in your well-beloved Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Build up your Church in mature faith, patient suffering, generous service, and gracious hospitality. Use it to reveal the mysteries of your love, so that many people seek your face, and live.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Help the people of this congregation to rightly balance the loving hospitality of Martha with the loving listening of Mary. Let all we say and do to lead our neighbors to “the one thing needful” – the strong saving love of Jesus.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Your servant Paul suffered for the sake of the Gospel, as do many Christians in this day. Make them desire to glorify you. Help them encourage one another to be witnesses to their Savior, who prayed even on behalf of his persecutors.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for our nation, for our leaders, and for all the people and nations on earth. Let your holy presence dwell with us. Grant that we may know your will, and seek your peace. Teach us to sit at your feet; to love your Law; to display your mercy; and to share your blessings with one another.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Be the strength and shield of all who stand in harm’s way to protect life and liberty. Give them courage and competence. Heal wounds of body, soul, and mind. Restore them to their loved ones. And help them find new ways to serve you, their communities, and their nation, when their duties have ended.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Be the light and salvation of all who suffer in body, mind, or spirit, especially: {List}. Strengthen their bodies, refresh their hearts, take away their fears, and give them your peace. Bless all who care for them with kindness and competence.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heavenly Father, we thank you for our departed loved ones who now receive that good portion that shall never be taken from them. Help us to comfort those who mourn. Help us to nourish all who hunger for food, fellowship, or forgiveness. Help us to grow in faith, hope, and love. Welcome us, and all whom you have redeemed, into your spacious House. There, let us no more be strangers, servants, or guests, but your dear children, who see you face to face 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.

THE PRAYERS, 

5^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 10, Cycle C (July 10, 2022)

Leviticus 18:17-19; 19:9-18 (you shall not be sexually impure, nor lie, cheat, or show partiality; you SHALL reprove your neighbor; love your neighbor as yourself, I am the Lord your God)

          ELW/RCL: Deuteronomy 30:9-14 (God will prosper those who obey his commands. His word is very near you)

Psalm 41 (Love the poor; Lord, defend me from my enemies)

            ELW/RCL: Psalm 25:1-10 (Lead me in truth, remember me in mercy)

Colossians 1:1-14 (You are bearing the Gospel’s fruit; lead lives worthy of Christ; clothed in his power, you shall endure, be joyful & give thanks)

Luke 10:25-37 (Who’s this neighbor I’m supposed to love? Parable of Good Samaritan)

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

Thank you, Lord, for giving us the ministry of showing mercy to others. But sometimes we are distracted or self-absorbed. We make excuses for “passing by on the other side.”  Forgive us, dear Father, and kindle your Holy Spirit within our hearts. Make us signs of your love to those who need it most.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

When your Church lies wounded and bleeding, and its leaders pass by on the other side, send your dear Son to be her Good Samaritan. Anoint her with the oil of healing and gladness. Feed her with the medicine of immortality, the Body and Blood of her Savior. And raise her up to be your “Mercy Hospital” for a hurting and hurtful world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Fill the hearts of everyone in this congregation with kindness and mercy. Make us holy and humble, gentle and good, courageous and compassionate, all in equal measure. Make us into your kindly beasts of burden who bear wounded and dying souls to the healing presence of Jesus, their Good Physician.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Our persecuted sisters and brothers cry to you for help. Give them strength, hope, and courage in their suffering. Do not let us ignore their plight. Forgive and transform evildoers who have wounded them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give sharp eyes, wise hearts, and generous hands to our elected and appointed leaders, wherever they are given authority and power. Help each of us to notice our neighbor’s distress. Give us all the grace and the willingness to show them mercy.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord, protect the farms, businesses, and homes of everyone affected by flood, fire, wind, or drought. Keep safe all who work to repair and strengthen bridges, roads, dams, and levees. Open wide the hands of all your people, to help provide for those whose homes and livelihoods have been washed or shriveled away.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bring the healing balm of Jesus’ grace and mercy to all who are wounded in body, mind, or spirit, especially those we name before you now. Bless all who act as Good Samaritans to them. Let all that is needed for health and hope be provided, and restore them to full fellowship with all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Dear heavenly Father, thank you for giving your fullest healing to our beloved dead. Bind up the hearts of those still wounded by grief. Help us to show kindness and mercy to everyone we meet throughout our earthly pilgrimage; we do not know the burden of suffering that they bear. Fill us with your life-giving Spirit. And, by your grace, bring us into your house of healing, life, love, and peace, which your Son has prepared for all whom he has redeemed, and where we shall abide with 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.

July 3: 4^th 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.