Tomorrow's Offering

Another week is past. It was chocked full like the others. As much as I have enjoyed teaching at Milligan, I'm glad there is only one more week left. Pastorally the week was full as well. As of today, though, we have no members in the hospital for the first time in about two months. Some have been moved physical therapy and rehab facilities and others are home.

The sermon for tomorrow is almost ready. Tomorrow's focus is on the joy that should be a part of our inclusion in the kingdom of God. We'll look at Levi the Tax Collector and his response to Jesus' invitation.

Here's the prayer. Hope to see you tomorrow.

Prayers of the Church for Grandview

September 16, 2007

O God, who prepares for us a table in the presence of our enemies, fill us with the joy you feel when we gather around this table that has been prepared for us with the body and blood of your Son. Fill us with the joy that comes from seeing your gift to us bear fruit in a fallen world. Fill us with the joy of enemies who have become friends and of families who unite under the banner of your grace.

By the power of your Spirit, poured out upon all flesh, help us to celebrate this morning! You created us. We exist. You redeemed us when we were in a dark place of our own making. You called us into the kingdom of God. We have purpose. You are calling more and more people to be a part of your work. We have company in your kingdom, and so we celebrate that in every minute of every day your Spirit works, unseen, like the mustard seed that becomes big enough for tree houses and swings and shelter and shade.

You love us. You want us to be with you. You moved heaven and earth, empires and armies, transgressions and tombs, in order to show us that it’s true. It’s not a rumor. It’s not wishful thinking. The God who made everything there is; everything we can know and everything beyond our senses of hearing, smell, sight, taste, touch is passionately in love with all people.

So forgive us Lord, for despising what you love; for despising our enemies, for despising people who try our patience, people who aren’t like us. Forgive us for despising people who are like us. Forgive us for despising our selves. Give us fresh goggles to see as you see and to love as you love.

Bring your gift of healing to the sick, of peace to the dying, of comfort to those who are grieving, of protection for soldiers and civil servants, and of hope to those who have had their peace shattered. Send a new song for those who need to sing with fresh fire, a spirit of community for those who are inclined to be alone, and bright new challenges for those who have lost the oomph and enjoyment of life.

In the silence we remember our unvoiced requests and we listen for the still, small, voice that whispers love and challenge to us.

silence

Lord, give us the power of your Spirit so that when we invite people to follow you, they—like Levi the tax collector—will spring forward, recognizing the presence of the God who creates, calls, and recreates.

We pray as your Son has taught us: