Almighty God,
In your graciousness, and by your Holy Spirit, you bless us with this time and place of sanctuary and rest in your son Jesus Christ. We thank you for the miracle of this church family, each and every one of us whom you’ve gathered by your Holy Spirit to receive your gifts this morning. Turn our hearts from entitlement to gratitude. Gratitude for the person and work of Jesus Christ, through whom, by his mercy and grace, we receive forgiveness, renewal, restoration, and reconciliation with you and with each other.
Lord,
By your word all things were created, each in its allotted space and time. You breathed life into us through your Spirit, and in the movement and sound of the wind we are reminded of your Spirit's continual presence. The whole of creation declares your glory, Lord. A symphony of sound and color surrounds us. Prompt us to pause in our busy day to day routines, to just be still, with our eyes and ears attuned to the work and blessings of your creative hand.
King Jesus,
Where we are exhausted by the demands and obligations and struggles of this world, be our sabbath, our rest. Where we feel beat down or sputtering or empty, invade with your fulfilled promise that a bruised reed you will not break, a faintly burning wick you will not quench, and a hungry heart you fill with the bread of life. Where we are parched for joy, remind us that we are soaked in living water. Remind us that by your wounds we are healed, adopted into your perfect Sonship, never to be forsaken.
In the name of the living God, Jesus Christ, we pray,
AMEN.