Almighty God,
In a world that forms and shapes us for distraction, be our firm foundation, be our rock. In a world full of so many voices, so much noise and information that can leave us disenchanted and disillusioned, draw us into your Word. Before we take in the countless voices of the day, have us hear, in these early hours, the voice of our Creator and Redeemer. Waken our ears to hear and to believe in your promises.
Lord Jesus,
By the light of your Word we see the dark mark of our sin. Yet by the light of your Word we are also marked with forgiveness and new life in you. Let us be marked not for sorrow, but marked as ones who are claimed by the “man of sorrows”. Let us be marked not for our shame, but marked by the Holy One who was shamed by the world that He might save it. Have us hear the glorious whisper of your voice through the loud and unceasing tide of voices all around us. Speak, Lord, and bring to our sinfulness the cleansing waters of your forgiveness, that having been washed, we might know true release and freedom in you.
AMEN.