August 27: 13^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 16)

Isaiah 51:1-6 (Listen for God’s teaching, wait for his deliverance)

Psalm 138 (God is faithful; he listens to the lowly)

Romans 11:33-12:8 (The depth and riches of God’s wisdom! Present your bodies

as living sacrifice to him)

            (ELW, Romans 12:1-8, Present your body as a living sacrifice to God;

do not be conformed to this world, but transformed by renewal of your mind)

Matthew 16:13-20 (Peter’s confession; on this rock I will build my Church)

Let us pray for the church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence is kept.

Heavenly Father, thank you for Peter! He was so very human, and yet you gave him faith to confess Jesus as your Son and Messiah. As you used him, please use us, too, to do your work of forgiving, confessing, and proclaiming Jesus as Lord to the world.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Establish the Church upon the solid rock of Christ, and on the faithful witness of your apostles. Make the Church truly the one body of Christ upon this earth. Do not let the gates of hell prevail against its faithful proclamation and teaching. By your Holy Spirit, make it wise, gracious, and steadfast in rightly forgiving and retaining sin. Use it to bring many to faith in Jesus their Savior.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Keep safe your servants who are persecuted for naming Jesus as Christ and God. Visit them with your righteousness and draw near with your salvation. Let our words and deeds never tarnish their witness. We also pray for missionaries, seminarians, and theologians entrusted with proclaiming your word.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Conform this congregation to your good, acceptable, and perfect will. Help us to not think too highly of ourselves, but with sober judgment to use our talents according to the grace you have given each of us. Build up the body of your beloved Son among us through sound preaching and teaching, generous giving, cheerful service, and loving kindness.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Bless all those who have instructed and shaped our faith – parents, grandparents, pastors, Sunday School teachers, and everyone whose love for Jesus shines brightly in word and deed. Thank you for the saints whose confession of Jesus as Lord has been a blessing to others, and has formed the unseen foundation of our own faith. Use us to encourage, instruct and guide others in lives of discipleship and service, to your glory and for the building up of your people.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Teach the world’s rulers listen to you, the giver of justice and the author of salvation. Conform their decisions and deeds to your righteous will, so that they care for the lowly and give hope to all who cry out to you. Heal the divisions that fracture families, communities, and nations; and help us to live at peace with our neighbors.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Bless all who risk their lives to protect, defend, and rescue others. Give them valor, loyalty, wisdom, and competence. Help them to act according to your will and for the benefit of your people. Heal their wounds; reunite them swiftly with loved ones; and crown their labors with the blessing of your peace.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Graciously answer the prayers of all who call upon you for help, including: {List}. Keep them safe in the midst of suffering and sorrow. Increase their strength and faith. Let them see the light of your salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Gracious Father, your love endures forever. In your mercy, draw near and make good your purpose for us. Keep us steadfast in faith, bold in witness, generous in sharing, cheerful in helping, gentle in exhorting, frequent in forgiving, and constant in thankfulness to you, our rock, and our salvation. Lead us into presence of Christ our Lord. Give to us, and to all whom he has redeemed, eternal joy and gladness; thanksgiving and the voice of song.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Hear our prayer, O Father, and grant all that glorifies you and builds up your people. This we ask for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

August 20: 12^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 15)

Isaiah 56:1, 6-8 (My house shall be a house of prayer for all peoples)

Psalm 67 (God judges the nations with equity and guides all the people of earth)

Romans 11:1-2a, 13-15, 28-32 (God’s election of Jews irrevocable; he will show mercy!)

Matthew 15:21-28 (Healing of Syro-Phoenecian woman’s daughter)

Let us pray for the church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence is kept.

Dear Father, we are so slow to see others as your beloved children! Soften our hearts to lead people different from ourselves into Jesus’ presence. Help us to discover that at the foot of his Cross, we truly are sisters and brothers.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Fashion your Church into your house of prayer upon the earth. By your Holy Spirit, show it how to rightly welcome all people into its midst.  Through your Word and holy Sacraments, draw many close to your beloved Son. Let them receive his promised mercy, forgiveness, healing, and salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

There are many who refuse your mercy, reject your Son, and persecute your servants. Forgive them and soften their hearts. Strengthen Christians who suffer because of Jesus, to witness to him with humility, boldness, and steadfast endurance.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Make this congregation a house of prayer. Fashion us into people of prayer. Transform our ministries into expressions of prayer, offered to you on behalf of our neighbors and our world. Help us to welcome fellow sinners. Give us grace to walk with them on the lifelong journey of repentance and obedient faith.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

O God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, we pray for our elder brothers and sisters in the faith, your people Israel. Grant to the Jews lively faith in you, fervent love for others, and joyful obedience to your holy Word. Let us, together with them, receive your promised mercy, which was entrusted to Abraham, and was ratified in the death and resurrection of his offspring and yours, Jesus of Nazareth.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Forgive and heal the hatred and violence that destroy peace, justice, and goodwill. Teach our rulers diligently seek the good of everyone entrusted to their care. Increase understanding, cooperation, and kindness between those of different backgrounds or beliefs. Teach us all to look beyond those things which divide, and to cling to your merciful will to heal and save all who will receive you.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

As the school year starts, we pray for students, parents, teachers, and aides. Let them teach, learn, and share all useful knowledge, and cherish truth, wisdom, and righteousness. Bless seminaries and Christian colleges and schools with faithfulness to Jesus, love of neighbor, and the practice of virtue.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Jesus showed that your mercy and salvation are for all who call upon your name. Thus we are bold to pray for all who suffer – including: {List}. Be gracious to them, and bless them. Show them the light of your countenance. Draw them, and all who care for them, closer to your Son. Bestow upon them the joy of your saving help.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Thank you, dear Father, for giving your fullest healing to the faithful departed. We commend them into your care, especially those dearest to us. Keep us united with them and with each other, by uniting us all with Jesus, and filling us with your Spirit. Grant us the unmatched joy of life in your house – not as pet dogs under the table; nor as strangers or as guests; but as your children, at home with you forever.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Hear our prayer, O Father, and grant all that glorifies you and builds up your people. This we ask for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

August 13: 11^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 14)

Job 38:4-18 (Where were you when I laid out the foundations of the earth?!)

            (ELW, 1 Kings 19:9-18, Elijah encounters God as still small voice)

Psalm 18:1-16 (“His chariots of wrath the deep thunderclouds form,

 and dark is his path on the wings of the storm!”)

            (ELW, Psalm 85:8-13, God will speak peace to his people;

righteousness and peace have kissed)

Romans 10:5-17 (Righteousness of faith comes through hearing the Gospel preached)

Matthew 14:22-33 (Jesus and Peter take a watery walk on the sea)

Let us pray for the church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence is kept.

Holy Father, we bow in adoration before your majesty. We stand in awe of your wisdom, power, and goodness. And we thank you for your strong saving love, made real for us in your dear Son. Send us your Spirit, so we boldly obey his commands and humbly crave his mercy.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Send your Church into every corner of the world to preach the Gospel of salvation through Christ alone. By your Spirit, give it humility, faith, and courage to proclaim your holy Word with faithful clarity and winsome charity.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Give such endurance and faith to all who are persecuted for being Christians, that even their tormentors might repent, call upon your name, and be saved.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Protect this congregation from storms of contention, controversy, and confusion. Shelter us, and help us trust you. Help us to say in word and deed, “I love you, O Lord my strength, O Lord my stronghold, my crag, and my haven. My God, my rock in whom I put my trust, my shield, the horn of my salvation, and my refuge; you are worthy of praise!”

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Look kindly upon those who are overwhelmed by winds and waves of grief and suffering. We know they sometimes feel abandoned by others – and even by you. Help us to encourage, strengthen, and aid them. Help us to take their hand and walk with them across their stormy seas, towards the nail-scarred hands of Jesus, who alone can lift them up and save them.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Shield us from natural disasters and from human malice and stupidity. Come down, O Lord, on the wings of wind. Scatter our enemies and deliver us from our anguish! Speak your word of peace upon the troubled earth and every human heart; and reign undisturbed as King and Lord of all.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Clothe with righteousness and wisdom all your servants who risk their lives in defense of life and liberty. Be their stronghold, shield, and refuge. Make them models of justice, integrity, and service.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Many people can say with the Psalmist, “The breakers of death rolled over me, and the torrents of oblivion made me afraid.” We lift them before you – including: {List}. Save them from everything that threatens to undo them. Lead them to a place of shelter, healing, and hope. Bless everyone who cares for them in any way.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Thank you, dear Father, for your servants who now rest from their earthly labors – especially those whose death touches us most closely. Give to us, who still sail life’s stormy seas, faith to call upon you in confidence and hope. Give us love to encourage and help our neighbor in distress. And give us hope, that clinging to your Son for dear life, we come safely into your embrace. Grant that we, with all whom you have redeemed, may sing with joy and worship you forever.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Hear our prayer, O Father, and grant all that glorifies you and builds up your people. This we ask for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

August 6: 10^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 13)

Isaiah 55:1-5 (Buy wine and milk without money; don’t spend for bread that doesn’t satisfy)

Psalm 136:1-26 (God’s mercy endures forever!)

            (ELW, Psalm 145:8-9, 14-21, God is gracious and merciful, opens his hand,

feeds every living thing)

Romans 9:1-13 (Paul’s anguish for fellow Jews who do not have faith in Christ)

            (ELW, Romans 9:1-5)

Matthew 14:13-21 (Miracle of feeding 5000)

Let us pray for the church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence is kept.

Heavenly Father, thank you for daily bread that nourishes soul and body. Thank you for the Bread of Life, Jesus your Son. Give us this bread always. Help us share with those who are famished.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Feed your Church with the Bread of Heaven. Refresh it with living water. Heal it with the wine of forgiveness. Nourish it with the milk of your kindness. Then, send the Church into the world, to invite those who do not yet know you to drink from the waters of salvation and feast on the bread of life.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We pray for Christians around the world who are imprisoned and killed because they name Jesus as Lord. Bestow on them your steadfast love and, so that they may be bold, faithful, and gracious in their witness to their Savior. Help us to serve, defend and provide for them however we can.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Make the people of this congregation hungry for your truth and thirsty for your mercy. Let us feast upon Jesus in Word and Sacrament. And then, make us overflow with holy love, so we eagerly share him with those who need it most.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

There are so many hungry people! Bless every food pantry, community garden, meal program, and aid organization that feeds the hungry. Help us to endow poor communities with skills and resources, to feed themselves and be a blessing to many others.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Teach the leaders of the nations to incline their ears to you; to rightly lead their people; and to seek that good which endures. Give them the desire and the means to provide food, jobs, education, and safety for those entrusted to their care. And grant to all people those good things which sustain life and hope.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Jesus’ disciples learned his power by obeying his command to feed the people. We are his disciples, too. We’re sometimes overwhelmed by the size of the task, or daunted by our puny resources. Give us the obedient hearts of the first disciples. Help to follow Jesus by little steps. Remind us that Jesus will take, break, and bless our small gifts, and use them to feed a world starved for him.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Grant refreshment, strength, and healing to everyone who struggles with any sort of adversity. Especially we lift before you the needs of: {List}. Give compassion and competence to all who care for them. Hasten the day when they may joyfully say, “You remembered us in our low estate, for your mercy endures forever; and delivered us from our enemies, for your mercy endures forever.”

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Heavenly Father, keep in your care all who have died trusting in your promises. Turn our sorrow into joy, and our tears to laughter. Have compassion on us. Nourish, sustain, guide, and protect us. Teach us to care for each other. Gather us around your Son. Let him lead us, and all your people, to the banquet you have prepared. There may we eat and drink and gaze upon him, our heart’s desire, forever.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Hear our prayer, O Father, and grant all that glorifies you and builds up your people. This we ask for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

July 30: 9^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 12)

Deuteronomy 7:6-9 (Israel chosen because of God’s love, not their deserving)

            (ELW, 1 Kings 3:5-12, Solomon asks for wisdom)

Psalm 125 (God stands round his people like the hills surrounding Jerusalem)

            (ELW, Psalm 119:129-136, Your words enlighten the simple; keep my steps steady

 in your precepts)

Romans 8:28-39 (Nothing can separate us from God’s love in Christ Jesus)

Matthew 13:44-52 (Parable of the pearl of great price)

            (ELW, Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52, Mustard seed, yeast, pearl)

Let us lift our hearts, hands, and voices in prayer to God on behalf of all people.

A brief silence is kept.

Dear Father, thank you for giving to your Chosen People the pearl of your holy Word in the Hebrew Scriptures. Thank you for perfectly enfleshing your Word in the Pearl of great price, your dear son Jesus. Thank you for making us, through him, into your pearl, your hidden treasure, and your beloved people!

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Make the Church lovely with Jesus’ goodness. May it always treat your Word and Sacraments as precious, living treasures. By the gracious power of your Spirit, draw many to faith in Jesus, so they may never be separated from your love.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We pray for our persecuted sisters and brothers, who face “tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword.” Make them more than conquerors through the Cross of Christ; and soften the hearts of those who torment them.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Keep this congregation in your care, knowing that nothing can separate us from your love for us in Christ Jesus. Use our words and deeds to share that love with those around us who need it most.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Bless your people the Jews. You chose them not because they were great but because you loved them. From them you brought forth the pearl of great price, your dear Son Jesus. Keep them in your protective and loving embrace. Bring them and us into the fulness of joy you have prepared for all who love you.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Establish your justice among the nations, O Lord; and do not let the scepter of evil hold sway over us. Establish your justice among rulers of countries and captains of industry; among leaders in every field of inquiry and endeavor; and among your people everywhere. Turn our hearts from evildoing and crooked ways; and fix them firmly upon faith toward you and fervent love toward one another.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We pray for justice, concord, and safety to flourish in this land. We pray for wrongdoers to be held accountable for their deeds, and to repent of them. We pray for wise words, not inflamed rhetoric, from our leaders. We pray for constructive decisions, not rash actions or empty gestures, from those entrusted with authority. We pray for those who risk their lives on behalf of others, that even in difficult circumstances they exhibit integrity and valor. We pray that in all circumstances, your will be done.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We pray for the sick, injured, dying and bereaved; for the troubled, confused, lonely, or despairing; and for everyone who struggles with the tribulations of this life. Therefore we also pray for our dear ones, including: {List}. Help us to show them that though the world seems against them, you are for them; you love them; you justify them; and you shall indeed make them more than conquerors.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Most Holy Father, we remember before you beloved dead. Remember your faithfulness and loving-kindness to us, though we are in the thousandth generation of those whom you name as your own. Teach us to treasure your Son, our Pearl of great price. Whatever trials we endure in this life, grant the blessed outcome promised to all who love you. In your great mercy, bring us into your Kingdom. There, with all the redeemed, may we rejoice in your love and delight in you forever.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Hear our prayers, dear Father, as they touch your heart through the Spirit who searches our hearts. For the sake of your beloved Son, answer them as may be best for us and give you glory. Amen.

July 23: 8^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 11)

Isaiah 44:6-8 (I am the first and last; beside me there is no god.)

Psalm 119:57-64 (I hasten to keep your commandments)

            (ELW, Psalm 86:11-17, Teach me your way; you are gracious and merciful,

slow to anger, abounding in steadfast love)

Romans 8:18-27 (Creation is in travail; we groan, but Spirit searches heart, intercedes for us)

            (ELW, Romans 8:12-25)

Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43 (Parable of the wheat and the weeds)

Let us lift our hearts, hands, and voices in prayer to God on behalf of all people.

A brief silence is kept.

Holy Father, thank you for stating what we ignore or forget: we’re all a weedy field! Thank you for giving us Jesus’ wise words to stand against “cancel culture” that seeks only to uproot and destroy. Thank you for his patient tending, that alone can “cancel” our sins and heal us. Thank you for your promise to gather us, from every race, tribe, and nation, as your treasured, holy, precious, and redeemed people.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You are the first and the last; beside you there is no god. Make your Church faithful and persistent in telling the world that in Jesus, crucified and raised from the dead for the forgiveness of sins unto eternal life, you have revealed to us your very heart.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Come to the aid of all who suffer scorn and violence because they name a crucified Jewish carpenter as the one, true, and only God. Grant that they bear faithful witness to that precious truth.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We confess that our congregation is sown with weeds as well as wheat. Forgive us. Deal mercifully with us. By the grace of your Spirit, help us to bear one another’s faults with patience and gentleness. Remind us that you alone will make us pure, holy, and good, by conforming us to your dear Son.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We pray for our enemies – especially those who hate us because of our faith in Jesus. We pray for all who deny and despise him. We pray for all who do not know him, or who only know a shriveled, distorted image of him. Soften their hearts; enlighten their minds; and fill them with your Spirit, so they may repent and believe in the Good News.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We know there are no perfect rulers or programs – only sinful people in a fallen and death-shadowed world. Therefore, we groan in travail, pleading that you would free us from bondage and futility. We cry out for redemption and righteousness; for healing and wholeness; and for your Sabbath rest, your Shalom. Until then, make us humble, gentle, and wise; and heal the evil we have caused.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Your Son’s parable counseled letting weeds and wheat grow together. Yet for the sake of your people, we must stem the spread of deadly weeds: violence, injustice, and hatred. Therefore, we plead on behalf of those in the military, police, security, intelligence, and first response. Give them wisdom, integrity, and honor, so that by their labors, those they serve may have a measure of justice and safety.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Sickness, sorrow, and adversity take root in every life. We cannot uproot them all, yet we know you desire abundant life for your servants. And so, we are bold to pray for everyone who suffers, including: {List}. Heal and encourage them. In your good time, complete in them and in us all, the full and perfect healing that you have promised in Christ Jesus.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We thank you, heavenly Father, for those who have gone before us and are at rest in you. Teach us to pray confidently for each other, knowing that you have made us your children. Teach us to care for each other, knowing that you will prosper your handiwork in us. Gather us to yourself as your rich and fruitful harvest in Jesus, so that with all your forgiven sinners, we may abide with you forever.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Hear our prayers, dear Father, as they touch your heart through the Spirit who searches our hearts. For the sake of your beloved Son, answer them as may be best for us and give you glory. Amen.

July 16: 7^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 10)

Isaiah 55:10-13 (God’s Word does not return to him empty)

Psalm 65:1-13 (A song of praise for God’s bounty in nature)

                (ELW, Psalm 65:1-13, Happy are they whom you choose to live in your courts;

thanksgiving for the bounty of creation)

Romans 8:12-17 (The Spirit bears witness to our adoption by God, so we cry Abba, Father)

                (ELW, Romans 8:1-11, The mind set on the flesh cannot please God;

but you are in the Spirit, and the life of Christ dwells in you)

Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 (Parable of the good seed on different soils)

Let us lift our hearts, hands, and voices in prayer to God on behalf of all people.

A brief silence is kept.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the simple images of seeds and soil. Thank you for using what we’re familiar with to convey deep truths. Thank you that we don’t need a Ph.D. or a million Twitter followers to bear rich fruit. Let us always give you glory and nourish people hungry for your healing and love.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Fill the Church with the Holy Spirit. Make it beautiful with holiness and rich with wisdom. Let your Word take root in it and accomplish your purpose. Draw all people into its courts. Hear their prayers, forgive their sins, and accomplish their salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Grant patience, courage, and faith to those who are persecuted for Jesus’ sake. Do not let their witness to you return to you empty. Uproot the stones and weeds from the hearts of all who hate them, so they, too, bear the fruits of repentance and are saved.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Deal mercifully with this congregation. Make everything we say and do faithful and fruitful. Uproot the deep-rooted weeds and remove the stubborn stones of sin from the fields of our lives. Break down the hard-trodden paths of worldly customs. Make your Word grow richly in us, so that many are fed by it.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Thank you for favorable weather and fruitful earth; for the fields and orchards, flocks and herds, streams and seas, which nourish us all. Bless farmers and ranchers, fishers and shepherds, gardeners and all whose knowledge and effort helps to protect, preserve, and wisely use the gifts of creation. Help us to be generous stewards of your bounty, sharing with all who are in need.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We pray for this nation, beset by troubles and strife, yet still our beloved country. Reform its laws, purify its speech, instruct its leaders, and soften every heart to see one another as your beloved children, created in your image and redeemed at great cost by your dear Son.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Help us to walk alongside just one other person who struggles with doubt, grief, or despair. Help us speak words that are clear, faithful, truthful, and loving. Help us to enrich their faith in you. Help us, and them, to bear much fruit, to your  glory and for the sake of those still hungering for your goodness.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Bring healing and hope to everyone who is afflicted by sorrow, suffering and sin, including: {List}. Lead them out of their darkness into the brightness of your saving love. Grant peace to their hearts and joy to their loved ones. Give them clear reason to praise your awesome deeds of salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Thank you, dear Father, for all who have died trusting in you. Lead and guide us, who still walk a road that is stony and desolate, overgrown with the thorns of sin and briers of violence. Refresh us in this wilderness. Give us nourishment for our bodies, hope for our hearts, and your Spirit to abide with us along life’s way. Crown our years with blessing. By the merits of your dear Son, gather us safely to yourself, where with all whom you have redeemed, we may sing with joy forever.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Hear our prayers, dear Father, as they touch your heart through the Spirit who searches our hearts. For the sake of your beloved Son, answer them as may be best for us and give you glory. Amen.

.

July 9: 6^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 9)

Zechariah 9:9-12 (Rejoice, daughter of Zion, your lowly King comes to you)

Psalm 145:1-14 (The Lord is gracious and full of compassion; all his works praise him)

Romans 7:14-25 (I don’t do the good I want to do; another law is at work in me!)

Matthew 11:25-30 (My yoke is easy, my burden light)

            (ELW, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Jesus, friend of sinners; take my yoke…)

Let us lift our hearts, hands, and voices in prayer to God on behalf of all people.

A brief silence is kept.

Dear Father, thank you for Jesus, our friend and yokefellow. Thank you for soul’s refreshment and heart’s ease; for mind’s nourishment and body’s rest. Thank you for the countless blessings we so often take for granted.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Grant that your Church should always be as gentle and lowly of heart as its Savior. Use it to draw people who are burdened sin, suffering, and sorrow, to the One who will give them rest. Let the Church’s mission – faith toward you and fervent love toward others – be a light and joyous burden to bear.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Give encouragement and respite to your persecuted Church. Help us, who are richly supplied with your good gifts, to share generously with them. Teach us to pray for them and to speak and act on their behalf. Give us , and them, grace to pray for their tormentors to repent and believe the Good News.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Thank you for this congregation. Help us to see others through Jesus’ eyes. Some are carrying heavy burdens, known only to them and to you. Ease their load. Help us to refresh their spirits. Shape all we say and do, so that many find forgiveness, hope, and renewed joy in loving and serving you.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Thank you for this beautiful world, over which you have set us as your stewards. Let your Holy Spirit guide us to be wise, responsible, and compassionate as we tend the land and its creatures. Help us to enjoy the loveliness of creation, finding in it refreshment for our souls and relaxation for our bodies.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Bless, purify, and guide this nation. Let the words of the song be our prayer on its behalf. “America, America, God mend thine every flaw; confirm thy soul in self-control, thy liberty in law!” Grant to the people of every nation favorable weather, peaceful times, and respite from the burdens of sickness, poverty, and violence. Teach us all to eagerly seek and share your mercy, guidance, and blessings.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Ease the burdens borne by all who risk their lives to keep us safe, just, and free. Prosper all they do in accordance with your will. Heal those who are wounded, and comfort and strengthen their loved ones. Help us honor their service and value their skills when their duties are finished.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Give rest and healing to everyone weighed down by sin, sorrow, or suffering, including: {List}. Ease the load of care and worry that their loved ones shoulder. Give to us all the joy of your saving help.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Thank you, dear Father, for our departed loved ones. Until we are reunited with them and with your children of every time and place, bless us with your steadfast mercy and loving-kindness. Yoke us to our Savior, and guide us by his Spirit. Strengthen us to help each other bear the burdens of life. Lead us into the eternal rest and unending joy which you have promised to everyone redeemed by the work of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Hear our prayers, dear Father, as they touch your heart through the Spirit who searches our hearts. For the sake of your beloved Son, answer them as may be best for us and give you glory. Amen.

July 2, 5^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 8); Independence Day Weekend

Jeremiah 28:5-9 (Would that the word of the prophet who speaks peace come to pass!)

Psalm 119:153-160 (Preserve my life from those who do not heed your law)

                (ELW, Psalm 89:1-4, 15-18, God’s covenant with David)

Romans 7:1-13 (We have died to Law in Christ; sin caused the Law to be death for us)

                (ELW, Romans 6:12-23, Delivered from slavery to sin, now be slaves to righteousness)

Matthew 10:34-42 (I come not with peace but a sword; whoever doesn’t take up cross and follow isn’t worthy of Jesus, but whoever gives cup of water in His name will receive reward)

                (ELW, Matthew 10:40-42, Whoever welcomes you welcomes me)

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

A brief silence is kept.

Father, you pay us the compliment of revealing difficult truths to us. You expect us to see the world honestly, and to value your truth above even earthly peace. You speak to us of sin and death, cross bearing and persecution, suffering and service. Give us a double measure of your Spirit as we seek to be disciples of Jesus, because, dear Lord, we’re going to need it!

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Give the Church courage to speak your truth, even when that seems to bring not peace but a sword. Keep it faithful to the testimony of apostles and martyrs, saints, and doctors of your one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church throughout all time and space. Grant that it should prefer nothing whatsoever to Christ; and that it should count as its greatest honor the bearing of his Cross in this sin-shadowed world.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Preserve the lives of your persecuted servants from those who despise your Law. When they must bear a bitter cross, keep them faithful, firmly fixed on the joy set before them. Give us courage to defend and assist them. Give us grace to faithfully serve the Lord for whom they are willing to die.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Bless the people and ministries of this congregation. Give us fresh ways to reach, speak with, and walk alongside people who don’t know your love. We ask a special blessing upon all Vacation Bible School programs this summer. Give them dedicated volunteers and lots of happy children.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Even in the lazy days of summer, you call us to be Jesus’ apprentices in the art of healing souls, teaching minds, and softening hearts to receive your great gifts. Bless and guide everyone learning to be disciples of Jesus, walking with him as he seeks the hurting and lost.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Our nation is facing challenges, divisions, and discontent. Remind us of the great gifts you have bestowed upon us. Fill us with your Spirit, so that we always seek your will and strive to do it. Bless us with peace, and with freedom from every evil  and falsehood. Teach us all to live together as your children, and to work together for the prospering of all.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Keep safe those in the military, and all on the front lines of chaos, danger, and disease. Prosper all they do that is in accordance with your will. Give them clear heads, capable hands, and upright spirits. Bring them safely home when their task is done, and heal those who are injured in any way.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We pray on behalf of your servants who suffer in body, mind, spirit, or circumstance, and for all who crave your mercy and blessing, including: {List}. Restore them to health, wholeness, and hope. Help us to give even a cup of cold water for the sake of our Lord and his love for them. Bless all caregivers, doctors, nurses, technicians, and therapists with compassion, expertise, and cheerful service.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

With reverence and affection, we remember before you our beloved dead. Comfort all who grieve. Help us care for each other for Jesus’ sake. Help us speak hard truths with humility and love. Give us grace to take up our cross and follow Jesus, knowing that he will lead us through danger, evil, and death, and will bring us home to you forever.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Hear our prayers, dear Father, as they touch your heart through the Spirit who searches our hearts. For the sake of your beloved Son, answer them as may be best for us and give you glory. Amen.

June 25, 4th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 7)

Jeremiah 20:7-13 (I must speak God’s Word, though I’m mocked for it)

Psalm 91:1-16 (God will deliver from snares, pestilence and evil)

                (ELW: Psalm 69:7-18, Zeal for your house has consumed me; save me from the mire)

Romans 6:12-23 (Having been delivered from slavery to sin, now be slaves to righteousness)

                (ELW, Romans 6:1-11, Baptized into Jesus’ death and resurrection)

Matthew 10:5, 21-33 (Jesus instructs disciples before their mission;

fear the One who can destroy body and soul!)

                (ELW, Matthew 10:24-39, Disciple not above teacher, but you are of great value

to your Father. I have not come to bring peace but a sword.)

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

A brief silence is kept.

Thank you, dear Father, for Jesus. We may trust him even when he brings not peace but a sword. Thank you for the severe mercy of death and resurrection; Law and Gospel; repentance and forgiveness. Thank you for entrusting your Kingdom and your Word to us, even though we often feel unequal to that trust!

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You established your Church as a school for mission to the world. Rekindle that missionary zeal throughout the Church. Let all Christians be eager witnesses to the love of Jesus. Free the Church from worldly preoccupations. Free it to announce and share with the world the Gospel of salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Strengthen those who are persecuted for naming Jesus as Lord. Keep them from repaying evil with evil. By their gentleness, patience, and faith, turn the hearts of their tormentors to trust only in you.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Fashion this congregation into a missionary outpost; a school for discipleship; a hotbed of generous service; and a temple resounding with your praise. Teach us simple ways of sharing your love with everyone we meet; and give us the strength and will to do them.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

There is such a great need for pastors, evangelists, and disciple-makers! We know the world is starving for the living bread of your Word. Help us to nurture faith, help fellow believers to discern God’s call to ministry, and support them in every way possible as they respond to his gracious invitation. And if others say to us, “Perhaps you are the one God is calling,” help us to say, “Here I am, Lord.”

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Fill the leaders of nations, and everyone in positions of authority, with righteousness, wisdom, and integrity. Help us to live, insofar as it’s up to us, at peace with our neighbors, even when we’re annoyed with them. Help us to care for one naother, even when we’re stressed out and stretched thin. And help us to forgive each other, even when that seems hard.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Deliver from evil all who risk their lives in defense of life and liberty. Guide them in pathways of righteousness. Heal them when they are wounded in body, mind, or spirit. Return them safely to their families and communities.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Bring health and gladness to all whose lives are shadowed by pain, suffering or sorrow – including: {List}. Be their light and life, their guide and joy. Raise them up from the dark valleys in which they wander. Give compassion, gentleness, and patience to all who care for them. Shelter them always with your love.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Father, we entrust our beloved dead into your care. Hold them in the palm of your hand. Keep us firm in faith and constant in affection. Command your holy angels to shield us from the Evil One’s flaming darts. By the Cross of your beloved Son, lead us safely into your presence. There, with all whom you have redeemed and raised up, grant that we may delight in praising your goodness and mercy forever.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Hear our prayers, dear Father, as they touch your heart through the Spirit who searches our hearts. For the sake of your beloved Son, answer them as may be best for us and give you glory. Amen.