Baptism of Our Lord, Cycle B (January 10, 2021)
Genesis 1:1-5 (God creates light)
Psalm 29 (the voice of the Lord upon the waters)
Acts 19:1-7 (baptism in name of Jesus);
Mark 1:4-11 (the Baptism of Jesus)
THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH
With gratitude for the gift of Christ, let us draw near to our heavenly Father in prayer, asking his mercy for the Church, the world, and all who need his loving-kindness.
A brief silence
Most holy God, give us ears to hear your voice thundering amid the floodwaters of this world. Give us lips to cry “Glory!” Give us hearts to love you above all things. Give us faith to trust you in all things.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Fill the Church with your glory. Make it faithful in proclaiming your promise of salvation to those who do not know you. Let it rejoice when many repent, believe, and are joined to the Body of Christ.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Guide, guard and bless your persecuted servants throughout the world. Let your Word be found upon their lips and in their hearts. By their faithful witness, lead even their enemies to the light of your salvation.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Let your Word thunder in this congregation. Unlock our lips to cry “Glory” and proclaim your holy Name in word and deed. Conform our lives to the image of Christ. Let the light of his holy and forgiving love shine brightly in all we say and do.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Pour your Spirit upon those who waver between doubt and faith, despair and hope, rebellion and repentance. Nudge them to take the next small step of faith, even if it feels like a giant leap. Help us to walk with them along that path.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Let your Word shape the minds, hearts and wills of our elected and appointed leaders. Fill all of us with your Spirit of wisdom and understanding, counsel and might, knowledge and fear of you, and joy in your presence. Banish those things which lead to hatred and suffering. Speak your Word of peace to us all.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Be the shield, light and safety of all who risk their lives for the sake of others. Give them such integrity and strength of character that the innocent and defenseless may always look to them for help. When their work is done, bring them home in safety to their loved ones.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Let your living Word bring health, wholeness and hope to all who suffer, especially: {LIST}. Bless all who minister to them; and let the radiance of your Son’s love gladden their hearts.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
We thank you, heavenly Father, for your powerful voice that splits open the tombs of your servants, and calls them out of death into eternal life. Give comfort and strength to all who grieve. Protect and guide for each of us, until we join those who continually cry “Glory” in your blessed presence, and dwell with you in the splendor of eternal light and life that you share with your Son and the Holy Spirit.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Graciously hear, and generously answer our prayers and petitions, dear Father, as may be best for us and to your greater glory, thorough your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
