October 24: 22^nd Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 25

 

Jeremiah 31: 7-9 (God saves, consoles, and leads back the remnant of his people)

Psalm 126 (Israel’s fortunes restored; those who sowed in weeping bring in the sheaves with joy)

Hebrews 7:23-28 (Our perfect, great High Priest is the blameless eternal Son of God)

Mark 10:46-52 (Blind Bartimaeus is healed and follows Jesus on the way)

 

THE PRAYERS 

 

Let us intercede before the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ for the sake of the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Dear Father, thank you for the mercy, healing, forgiveness, and salvation you lavish upon us in Jesus! Give us courage and persistent faith, so we always trust and follow him along his Way.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify and shape your Church into the perfect Temple for your Son, our great High Priest. Make it lovely with holiness, beautiful with mercy, and radiant with truth. Use it to enlighten the spiritually blind, and equip it to lead them along Christ’s way.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

As you consoled and healed the remnant of Israel, do so and more for your persecuted Church. Make it rich in faith, hope, and love. By its witness to Jesus, open the eyes of its sin-blinded enemies, and lead them also along Christ’s way.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless this congregation with such lively faith that we always see opportunities to bring other people to Jesus and his healing love. Make us eager to be companions to those who don’t yet know him. Help us to be their guides along Christ’s way.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Lord, blindness isn’t just a metaphor. It’s a physical reality. We lift before you the challenges and needs of those who are impaired in vision, hearing, and mobility. Help us to bring the light of your love and the music of your Word to them. Help us also to provide the assistance, training, and support they need to flourish. Let us be their “guide dogs” along Christ’s way.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Pound into the heads of our country’s leaders some common sense, humility, and virtue. Teach them that power, wealth, and fame matter less than wisdom, justice, mercy, and integrity. Use them to lead their people along your way.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Thank you for the brave, wise, and good among us who risk so much to protect life, health, liberty, and justice. Renew and sustain their strength and resolve. Use them to mend communities fractured by sickness, violence, and injustice, and to lead many along your way.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Like Bartimaeus’s friends, we plead that Jesus would bring healing and encouragement to all who suffer in body, mind, or spirit. Especially we plead for: {List}. Bring them healing and hope, light and life. Refresh all who care for them, so together they may walk along your way.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Dear Father, we entrust into your care our beloved dead. Ease the sorrow of those whose grief runs deep. Give us strength to encourage and support each other as we follow our blessed Savior along the way that leads to your spacious house and our eternal homecoming.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

October 17: 21^st Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 24

 

Ecclesiastes 5:10-20 (Pointlessness of amassing wealth)

      RCL/ELW: Isaiah 53:4-12 (Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows)

 Psalm 119:9-16 (How can young remain pure? Follow God’s commandments)

      RCL/ELW: Psalm 91:9-16 (God promises deliverance to those whom he loves)

 Hebrews 4:1-16 (Don’t harden your hearts against God. God’s word sharper than 2-edged sword; we confidently approach High Priest who was tempted but didn’t sin)

      RCL/ELW: Hebrews 5:1-10 (Great high priest is gentle with us: he suffered too)

 Mark 10:23-31 (Hard for rich to enter Kingdom; disciples promised much, with persecution)

      RCL/ELW: Mark 10:35-45 (James and John want special honors; true greatness is in suffering and serving as Jesus does)

 

 

 

THE PRAYERS 

 

Let us intercede before the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ for the sake of the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Father, thank you for the wealth and pleasures we have. Help us not get too attached to them. Thank you for Jesus’ hard words and loving example. Help us stay forever attached to him.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make your Church rich in faith, generosity, humility, compassion, and witness. Impoverish it with regard to pride, heresy, ingratitude, and fearfulness. Fill it with your Spirit. Conform it always to Christ, your righteous Suffering Servant, and our great High Priest.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Increase the faith, hope, and joy of your persecuted Church. Let the radiance of its faithful witness illuminate the hearts of its foes with your divine mercy.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Protect our congregation from being tempted to cling to treasures instead of sharing them, to your glory and for the benefit of our neighbors. Help us to prefer nothing whatsoever to Christ.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

We pray for young adults in our congregation and community. Let them not be preoccupied with possessions or prestige, but seek to please you each day in self-forgetful service and love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

We remember before you the poor of the earth, that their suffering might be eased. We pray for the wealthy and powerful, that they may use their gifts wisely and generously. Lead the rulers of the nations in the pathway of your commandments. Teach everyone to find true contentment in seeking and doing your will.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Thank you for all who stand between us and the threatening dangers of this world. Keep them faithful, true, and bold. Help them to heal rifts caused by violence and suspicion. Use their gifts to protect justice and freedom. Strengthen them when they falter; support their loved ones; and bring them home safely and soon.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Grant that all who suffer find hope and refreshment in Jesus’ mercy. We pray this day for {List}. We also plead on behalf of the poor, homeless, and unemployed. Give them the resources and courage they need to succeed. Let us display caring hearts, sound judgment, and practical assistance. Together let us flourish, and serve and glorify you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you, dear Father, for receiving all who have died in the covenant of their Baptism. Keep us always in that covenant. Help us to encourage one another and bear each other’s burdens. Help us to guide our neighbor into Jesus’ presence. Together with all of your redeemed people of every time and place, let us forever rejoice in your goodness, and see you face to face.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

October 10: 20^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 23

 

Amos 5:6-7, 10-15 (seek good, not evil, that you may live)

Psalm 90:12-17 (Teach us to have wise heart; prosper our handiwork)

Hebrews 3:12-19 (Do not have evil, unbelieving heart; exhort against sin)

            RCL/ELW: Hebrews 4:12-16

Mark 10:17-22 (Rich man told to sell all, give to poor, and follow Jesus)

            RCL/ELW: Mark 10:17-31 (adds disciples perplexity over leaving riches, wondering how they’ll be rewarded for following Jesus)

 

THE PRAYERS 

 

Let us intercede before the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ for the sake of the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Thank you, dear Father, for the priceless gift of your dear Son. Thank you for the wisdom, mercy, and salvation he brings. Thank you most of all for bringing us close to your heart.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bestow your Holy Spirit upon the Church, so it loves you with heart, mind, and strength. Help the Church to follow Jesus wherever he leads it to preach the Gospel and serve our neighbors. In word and deed, let it equip all people to find their treasure, joy and life in Christ alone.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

We remember before you Christians who have been stripped of freedom, health, and even life, because they prize Jesus above all else. Enrich them with the joy of salvation. Through their faithful witness, bring many to repent and believe in Christ.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you for blessing our congregation with so many gifts, spiritual and physical. Fill us with your Holy Spirit, so that we always love the Giver more than the gifts.  Help us to willingly share those gifts with the spiritually and physically poor in our community.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Enrich the hearts and minds of students – from preschool through graduate school, and especially students called to be pastors and teachers in your Church. Let them love wisdom, seek understanding, and cling to Christ, their highest good and dearest treasure.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Teach the world’s leaders, and especially those of our own country, to care for people more than prestige; to love justice more than popularity; and to use resources and power for the benefit of all. Grant that they should seek your will above partisan politics or personal gain.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Bless, guide, and protect our military and first responders. Proper all they do that is in accordance with your will. Help us to support and encourage their loved ones; to heal and help the wounded; and to prize and use their gifts in civilian life when their present duties are done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

We plead on behalf of all who are sick or injured, imprisoned or lonely; addicted or abused. We pray for all who are troubled by the powers of sin, evil, and death.  Especially we remember before you: {List}. Grant them the joy of your saving help. Restore them to health, hope, and communion with you and with those who love and care for them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Gracious Father, keep in your care all who have died trusting in you; and console all whose grief runs deep. Sustain, encourage, and refresh us through the toils and trials of this life. Keep us strong in faith toward you, and fervent in love for one another. Bring us into the joy of your Kingdom. There, with all your people, let us forever feast on your goodness, and delight in adoring our Savior, united in the power and love of your Holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

October 3: 19^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 22

 

Genesis 2:18-25 (It is not good for the man to be alone; creation of woman)

Psalm 128 (The happy home of the faithful)

      RCL/ELW: Psalm 8 (What is man, that you are mindful of him?)

Hebrews 2:1-18 (Pay attention to the message; if we ignore it, how can we escape penalty; Jesus tested in all things as we are, not ashamed to call us brothers; is our merciful high priest)

      RCL/ELW: Hebrews 1:1-4, 2:5-12 (Excellence of God’s Son; omits section from above on penalty for drifting from message of salvation)

 Mark 10:2-16 (Teaching on divorce; let the children come to me)

 

 

 

THE PRAYERS 

 

Let us intercede before the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ for the sake of the Church, the world, and one another.

 

A brief silence

 

Thank you, dear Father, that we may call you Father, and Jesus Brother, and know each other as sisters and brothers, united to Jesus through your Holy Spirit. Thank you that this happens even when our earthly family is troubled or absent. Help us extend your family-love to all who need you most.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

You appointed Jesus as our High Priest and elder brother. Form your Church into his temple and his home. Make it attentive and faithful to your Word. Use it to challenge and comfort to us, for we struggle with sin and temptation. Let us take heart and cling to Jesus, who was tempted as we are, save without sin. Grant that we may share his life forever.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Give strength, faith, and charity to your persecuted servants. Soften the hearts of their tormentors, and turn many from scorn and hatred of Christ to life-giving faith in him.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

By ties of blood and faith, this congregation is a family. Help us to be your family, and to lovingly befriend and mentor new sisters and brothers in Christ. Give us boldness to invite, patience to teach, wisdom to counsel, kindness to embrace, and gentleness to encourage them.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Deal gently with families who are struggling, especially when divorce looms large. Help couples to forgive, repent, repair, and renew. It’s easy to tear asunder. By your grace, cause them to remain joined together according to your will. Heal the bitterness and anger that poison hearts and lives. Help parents to be mindful of their children’s welfare, even above their own.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Grant wisdom, integrity, and humility to earthly leaders. Make the welfare of their people more important than their own agenda or power. Teach us to live, so far as it is possible, in peace with one another.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

We pray for all who stand in harm’s way on our behalf. Equip them with courage and compassion; competence and fairness; a zeal for justice and a heart for mercy. Bring them home safely and soon when their task is done; and bestow your peace on us all.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Let all who suffer in mind, body or spirit find welcome and healing in our Savior’s arms.  We pray especially for: {List}. Besides these, we pray for those who have been divorced; for our gay and lesbian brothers and sisters, and for all who may find your words about marriage and divorce to be hard or hurtful. Bless, heal, forgive, and love them. Help us to be gentle and humble, that they may firmly believe that we love them too.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Most holy Father, thank you for your steadfast mercy and loving kindness to all who died trusting your dear Son. Unite us with Jesus by the power of your Holy Spirit. Help us to live in faith toward you and in fervent love toward one another. In your good time, gather us into your house, where with all the redeemed, we shall delight in beholding our Elder Brother and rejoice in your fatherly love forever.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Lessons and Suggested Hymns,

16^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 19) – Christ the King Sunday

September 12 – November 21, 2021

 

NOTE: LBW – Lutheran Book of Worship (The Green Book)

WOV – With One Voice (The Blue Book)

ELW – Evangelical Lutheran Worship (The Cranberry Book)

LSB – Lutheran Service Book (The Maroon Book)

 

 

There are versions of some hymns that are superior in LSB and I recommend using them if possible. Also, there are some superb hymns in LSB that aren’t available in the other hymnals. When I suggest one of the latter, I try to include an alternative from LBW or WOV. I recommend that a license and DVD of downloadable hymns from LSB be purchased if you are looking to expand your hymnody. There are, in ELW, some familiar hymns that have been drastically altered, which I try to note. ELW also has some fine hymns not available in the other hymnals, or has, interestingly, a more “traditional” translation or harmonization.

 

Color for the day is indicated for each Sunday. Primary liturgical calendar taken from Sola Publishing (www.solapublishing.org), based on LSB. Also, I include the lessons from the Revised Common Lectionary (RCL) found in ELW and used in some congregations. It often overlaps the Sola/LCMS calendar lectionary, but when there are differences, I will note them.

 

Because some of the prayers of confession, as well as offertory and post-communion prayers, provided on certain resource pages lack theological heft or linguistic elegance, I have added some seasonal prayers that you are free to cut, paste, and revise as needed. They are modified from the copyright-free Online Book of Common Prayer, or are my own creation. These are found on the following pages. The regular prayers of intercession will, as usual, be provided weekly in their own Word documents.

 

 

 

For General/Green Season Use: A Brief Order of Confession and Holy Absolution

 

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son+, and of the Holy Spirit: Amen.

Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy Name; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.

Silence may be kept.

Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen.

Almighty God have mercy on you, forgive you all your sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen you in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep you in eternal life. Amen.

 

For General/Green Season Use: The Gospel Acclamation (Spoken)

Alleluia. Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life; you have the words of eternal life. Alleluia.

OR

Alleluia. Your Word, O Lord, is truth; consecrate us in the truth. Alleluia.

 

 

For General/Green Season Use: The Offertory Prayer

Let us pray. Almighty and eternal God, so draw our hearts to you, so guide our minds, so fill our imaginations, so control our wills, that we may be wholly yours, utterly dedicated unto

you; and then use us, we pray you, as you will, and always to your glory and the welfare of your people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

 

OR

 

Let us pray. Heavenly Father, we humbly offer to you the gifts of our treasures, talents, and time. Use them to you glory, and for the benefit of all your people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

 

 

For General/Green Season Use: The Great Thanksgiving and Proper Preface

 

The Lord be with you. And also with you.

Lift up your hearts. We lift them to the Lord.

Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. It is right to give him thanks and praise.

It is right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to give thanks to you, Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth. For you are the source of light and life, you made us in your image, and called us to new life in Jesus Christ our Lord; who on the first day of the week overcame death and the grave, and by his glorious resurrection opened to us the way of everlasting life. Therefore we praise you, joining our voices with Angels and Archangels and with all the company of heaven, who forever sing this hymn to proclaim the glory of your Name:

 

For General/Green Season Use: The Eucharistic Prayer

 

Holy and gracious Father: In your infinite love you made us for yourself, and, when we had fallen into sin and become subject to evil and death, you, in your mercy, sent Jesus Christ, your only and eternal Son, to share our human nature, to live and die as one of us, to reconcile us to you, the God and Father of all. He stretched out his arms upon the cross, and offered himself, in obedience to your will, a perfect sacrifice for the whole world.

On the night he was handed over to suffering and death, our Lord Jesus Christ took bread; and when he had given thanks to you, he broke it, and gave it to his disciples, and said, “Take, eat: This is my Body, which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.” After supper he took the cup of wine; and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and said, “Drink this, all of you: This is my Blood of the new Covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.”

Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith:

Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.

We celebrate the memorial of our redemption, O Father, with praise and thanksgiving. Recalling our Savior’s death, resurrection, and ascension, we pray that you would sanctify these gifts by your Holy Spirit, to be for your people the Body and Blood of your Son, the holy food and drink of new and unending life in him. Sanctify us also that we may faithfully receive this holy Sacrament, and serve you in unity, constancy, and peace; and at the last day bring us with all your saints into the joy of your eternal kingdom.

 

All this we ask through your Son Jesus Christ: By him, and with him, and in him, in the unity of the Holy Spirit all honor and glory is yours, Almighty Father, now and forever. AMEN.

 

OR

 

And so, Father, we bring you these gifts. Sanctify them by your Holy Spirit to be for your people the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ our Lord.

 

On the night he was betrayed he took bread, said the blessing, broke the bread, and gave it to his friends, and said, “Take, eat: This is my Body, which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.”

 

After supper, he took the cup of wine, gave thanks, and said, “Drink this, all of you: This is my Blood of the new Covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.”

 

Father, we now celebrate the memorial of your Son. By means of this holy bread and cup, we proclaim his death and resurrection, until he comes again. Gather us by this Holy Communion into one body in your Son Jesus Christ. Make us a living sacrifice of praise. By him, and with him, and in him, in the unity of the Holy Spirit all honor and glory is yours, Almighty Father, now and forever. AMEN.

 

 

For General/Green Season Use: Post-Communion Prayer

Eternal God, heavenly Father, you have graciously accepted us as living members

of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ, and you have fed us with spiritual food in the Sacrament of his Body and Blood. Send us now into the world in peace, and grant us strength and courage to love and serve you with gladness and singleness of heart; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

OR

Almighty and ever-living God, we thank you for feeding us with the most precious Body and Blood of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ; and for assuring us that we are living members of the Body of your Son, and heirs of your eternal kingdom. Send us out to do the work you have given us to do, to love and serve you as faithful witnesses of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

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September 12: 16^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 19

 

Isaiah 50:4-10 (Suffering Servant’s humiliation and vindication)

            RCL/ELW: Isaiah 50:4-9a (eliminates punishment of Suffering Servant’s accusers, and also the verse about obeying God while walking in darkness)

 Psalm 116:1-9 (You deliver soul from death, eyes from tears, feet from stumbling)

 James 3:1-12 (Taming the tongue)

 Mark 9:14-29 (Jesus heals the boy with epilepsy)

            RCL/ELW: Mark 8:27-38 (Peter’s confession, Jesus’ rebuke, following him involves self-denial)

 

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Opening hymn: Look, O Look, (Look Ye Saints) the Sight is Glorious LBW #156, LSB #495

Hymn of the Day: O Jesus, King Most Wonderful: LBW #537, LSB #554

OR In All Our Grief: ELW #615

OR, if using ELW lectionary, Take Up Your Cross, the Savior Said: LBW #398, ELW #667

 Communion Hymn #1: O Master, Let Me Walk With You: LBW #492, ELW #818

 Communion Hymn #2: Oh, for 1000 Tongues to Sing: LBW #559, ELW #886, LSB #528

 Closing Hymn: O God, My Faithful God: LBW #504, ELW #806, LSB #696

OR Thy Strong Word Did Cleave the Darkness: LBW #233, ELW #511, LSB #578

 

 

September 19: 17^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 20

 

Jeremiah 11:18-20 (Jeremiah’s life threatened, like lamb led to slaughter)

 Psalm 54 (Save me, O God, by your name; vindicate my by your might)

 James 3:13-4:10 (Earthly versus heavenly wisdom and friendship)

            RCL/ELW: James 3:13-4:3, 7-8a (Eliminates “Adulterers! Friendship with world isenmity with God,” and exhortation to lament sin, humble self that God may exalt)

 Mark 9:30-37 (Passion prediction; argument over who is greatest)

 

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Opening hymn: Son of God, Eternal Savior: LBW #364, ELW #655, LSB #842

 Hymn of the Day: Ah, Holy Jesus: LBW #123, ELW #349

OR The Son of God Goes Forth to War: ELW #183, LSB #661

          OR Lamb of God (Your Only Son): ELW #336, LSB #550

 Communion Hymn #1: Jesu, Fill Us with Your Love: WOV #765, ELW #708, LSB #980

 Communion Hymn #2: Lamb of God, Pure and Sinless (Holy): LBW #111, ELW #357; LSB # 434

 Closing Hymn: Lord of Glory, You Have Bought Us: LBW #424, ELW #707, LSB #851

 

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September 26: 18^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 21

 

Numbers 11:4-6, 10-16, 24-29 (Israel kvetches to Moses. Moses kvetches to God. God appoints 70 to help him deal with aforementioned kvetching)

Psalm 104:27-35 (You give food in due season; your Spirit gives them breath) 

            RCL/ELW: Psalm 19:7-14: (God’s perfect law keeps one from sin; let words of mouth, meditation of heart be acceptable in his sight)

 James 5:1-20 (Warning to rich oppressors; patience in suffering; prayers, anointing, and confession; bringing one back from sin a great thing) 

            RCL/ELW: James 5:13-20 (omits first 2 things)

 Mark 9:38-50 (Who is not against me is for me; cup of cold water; solemn warning about temptations to sin)

 

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Opening hymn: Gracious Spirit, Heed Our Pleading: WOV #687, ELW #401

OR Come Down, O Love Divine: LBW #508, ELW #804, LSB #501

Hymn of the Day: Lord, Whose Love in (through) Humble Service: LBW #423, ELW #712, LSB #848

         OR Love Divine, All Loves Excelling: LBW #315, ELW #631, LSB #700

 Communion Hymn #1:  Amazing Grace: LBW #448, ELW #779, LSB #744

Communion Hymn #2: Eternal Spirit of the Living Christ: LBW #441, ELW #402, LSB #769

Closing Hymn: Praise the Lord! O Heavens, Adore Him: LBW #540, ELW #823

 

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October 3: 19^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 22

 

Genesis 2:18-25 (It is not good for the man to be alone; creation of woman)

 Psalm 128 (The happy home of the faithful) 

RCL/ELW: Psalm 8 (What is man, that you are mindful of him?)

Hebrews 2:1-18 (Pay attention to the message; if we ignore it, how can we escape penalty; Jesus tested in all things as we are, not ashamed to call us brothers; is our merciful high priest) 

            RCL/ELW: Hebrews 1:1-4, 2:5-12 (Excellence of God’s Son; omits section from above on penalty for drifting from message of salvation)

 Mark 10:2-16 (Teaching on divorce; let the children come to me)

 

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Opening hymn: O Blest, the House: LBW #512, LSB #862

(If tune is unfamiliar, use tune for LBW #51, “From Heaven Above to Earth I Come”) 

         OR Blest Be the Tie that Binds: LBW #370, ELW #656, LSB #649

Hymn of the Day: When Love is Found: WOV #749

OR Our Father, By Whose Name: LBW #357, ELW #640

         OR O Father, All Creating LSB #858 (You might get the license if you don’t have LSB; it’s good for today’s texts AND for weddings! And the tune is Aurelia, The Church’s One Foundation)

Communion Hymn #1: O Christ, You Walked the Road:  LSB #424

OR Children of the Heavenly Father: LBW #474, ELW #781, LSB #725

Communion Hymn #2: All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name: LBW #328/329, ELW #634, LSB #549

 Closing Hymn: O Christ, the Same: WOV #778, (ELW #760)

 

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October 10: 20^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 23

 

Amos 5:6-7, 10-15 (seek good, not evil, that you may live)

 Psalm 90:12-17 (Teach us to have wise heart; prosper our handiwork)

 Hebrews 3:12-19 (Do not have evil, unbelieving heart; exhort against sin) 

            RCL/ELW: Hebrews 4:12-16

 Mark 10:17-22 (Rich man told to sell all, give to poor, and follow Jesus) 

            RCL/ELW: Mark 10:17-31 (adds disciples perplexity over leaving riches, wondering how they’ll be rewarded for following Jesus)

 

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Opening hymn: Blest are They: WOV #764, ELW #728, LSB #982

OR Take My Life, That I May Be: LBW #406, ELW #583, 685;  Take My Life and Let It Be: LSB #783, 784

 Hymn of the Day: Jesus, Priceless Treasure: LBW #457/458, ELW #775, LSB #743

OR Will You Come and Follow Me: ELW #798

 Communion Hymn #1: Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God: WOV #783, LSB #712

OR Great is Thy Faithfulness: WOV #771, ELW #773, LSB #809

Communion Hymn #2: Praise and Thanksgiving: LBW #409, ELW #689, LSB #789

Closing Hymn: Lord, Dismiss Us with Your Blessing: LBW #259, ELW #545, LSB #924

 

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 October 17: 21^st Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 24

 

Ecclesiastes 5:10-20 (Pointlessness of amassing wealth) 

            RCL/ELW: Isaiah 53:4-12 (Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows)

 Psalm 119:9-16 (How can young remain pure? Follow God’s commandments) 

            RCL/ELW: Psalm 91:9-16 (God promises deliverance to those whom he loves)

 Hebrews 4:1-16 (Do not harden your hearts against God, lest you not enter his promised rest. God’s word sharper than 2-edged sword; we may confidently approach High Priest who has been tempted but did not sin) 

            RCL/ELW: Hebrews 5:1-10 (Great high priest, deals gently with us because he himself has suffered)

 Mark 10:23-31 (Hard for rich to enter Kingdom; followers promised much – with persecution) 

            RCL/ELW: Mark 10:35-45 (James and John want special honors; true greatness is in suffering and serving as Jesus does)

 

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Opening hymn: Today Your Mercy Calls Us: LBW #304, LSB #915

OR O Christ, Your Heart, Compassionate: ELW #722

 Hymn of the Day: Lord, Whose Love in Humble Service: LBW #423, ELW #712, LSB #848

 Communion Hymn #1: We Give Thee but Thine Own: LBW #410, ELW #686, LSB #781

 Communion Hymn #2: When I Survey the Wondrous Cross: LBW #482, ELW #803, LSB #425/426

 Closing Hymn: God of Grace and God of Glory: LBW #415, ELW #705, LSB #850

          OR Send Me, Lord (Jesus): ELW #809, WOV #773

 

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October 24: 22^nd Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 25

 

Jeremiah 31: 7-9 (God saves, consoles, and leads back the remnant of his people)

 Psalm 126 (Israel’s fortunes restored; those who sowed in weeping bring in the sheaves with joy)

 Hebrews 7:23-28 (Our perfect, great High Priest is the blameless eternal Son of God)

 Mark 10:46-52 (Blind Bartimaeus is healed and follows Jesus on the way)

 

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Opening hymn: Father Most Holy, Merciful, and Tender: LBW #169, ELW #415, LSB #504

OR Let the Whole Creation Cry: LBW #242, ELW #876

Hymn of the Day: You Are the Way: LBW #464, ELW #758, LSB #526

Communion Hymn #1: Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven: LBW #549, ELW #865, LSB #793

Communion Hymn #2: How Great Thou Art: LBW #532, ELW #856, LSB #801

Closing Hymn: Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing: LBW #562, ELW #841, LSB #964

 

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October 31: Reformation Sunday

 

Jeremiah 31:31-34 (God’s new covenant will be written on the heart)

 Psalm 46 (The God of Jacob is our stronghold!)

 Romans 3:19-28 (We are justified by faith, apart from works of the law)

 John 8:31-36 (If the Son makes you free, you are free indeed)

 

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Opening hymn: A Mighty Fortress: LBW #228/229, ELW #503-505, LSB 656/657

Hymn of the Day: Thy Strong Word: LBW #233, ELW #511, LSB #578

OR Word of God Come Down on Earth: WOV #716, ELW #510, LSB #545

 Communion Hymn #1: The Church’s One Foundation:  LBW #369, ELW #654, LSB #644

 Communion Hymn #2: My Hope is Built on Nothing Less: LBW #293/294, ELW #596/597, LSB #575/576

Closing Hymn: Built on a (the) Rock the Church Shall Stand: LBW #365, ELW #652, LSB #645

 

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November 7: All Saints’ Sunday

 

Isaiah 25:6-9 (The feast; God wipes away tears, removes shame, destroys death)

 Psalm 24 (Who ascends the holy hill of God, enters temple? Those with clean hands and pure hearts)

 Revelation 21:1-6a (The new heaven and earth, New Jerusalem; death is no more)

 John 11:32-44 (Jesus raises Lazarus)

 

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Opening hymn: For All the Saints: LBW #174, ELW #422, LSB #677

 Hymn of the Day: Arise, My Soul, Arise: LBW #516, ELW #827 

          OR At the Lamb’s High Feast We Sing: LBW #210, ELW #362, LSB #633

 Communion Hymn #1: I Am the Bread of Life: WOV #702, ELW #845

OR Day by Day: WOV #746, ELW #790

           OR Jesus Loves Me: ELW #595, LSB #588

 Communion Hymn #2: Rejoice, O Pilgrim Throng: LBW #553, LSB #813

Rejoice, Ye Pure in Heart: ELW #873/874

 Closing Hymn: In Thee is Gladness: LBW #552, ELW #867, LSB #818

            OR Go, My Children, With My Blessing: WOV #721, ELW #543, LSB #922

 

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November 14: 25^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 28

 

Daniel 12:1-3 (Some will be raised to everlasting life, others to shame)

 Psalm 16 (You show me the path of life. In your presence there is fullness of joy)

 Hebrews 10:11-25 (We have confidence to approach God, having been made clean. Let us persevere in faith)

 Mark 13:1-13 (Jesus foretells destruction of Temple, persecution of his followers) 

            RCL/ELW: Mark 13:1-8 (Omits persecution and testimony)

 

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Opening hymn: When Morning Gilds the Skies (LBW #546, ELW #853, LSB #807 

           OR All Who Would Valiant Be: LBW #498

           OR My Lord, What a Morning: WOV #627, ELW #438

 Hymn of the Day: Lord, Keep Us Steadfast in Your Word: LBW #230, ELW #517, LSB #655

           OR O God of Youth: LBW #510 (I know, I know. Don’t know the tune. No substitutes available. It’s pretty straightforward, and the words are outstanding. If it just won’t sing, then have folks READ the words aloud together. I’m serious. The words are THAT GOOD!)

 Communion Hymn #1: Jesus, Still Lead On: LBW #341, ELW #624; Jesus, Lead Thou On: LSB #718

 Communion Hymn #2: Lord Take My Hand and Lead Me: LBW #333, ELW #767, LSB#722

 Closing Hymn: O Savior, Precious Savior: LBW #514, ELW #820, LSB #527

 

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November 21: Christ the King Sunday

 

Daniel 7:9-10,13-14 (Vision of the Son of Man)

 Psalm 93 (The Lord is King, robed in majesty)

 Revelation 1:4b-8 (Vision of the glorified Jesus)

 John 18:33-37 (Jesus before Pilate: What is truth?)

 

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Opening hymn: The King Shall Come When Morning Dawns: LBW #33, ELW #260, LSB #348

 Hymn of the Day: Look, O Look, the Sight is Glorious: LBW #156;

Look, Ye Saints, the Sight is Glorious: LSB #495

OR O Christ, What Can it Mean for Us: ELW #431 (tune: The Son of God Goes Forth to War)

OR Praise Be to Christ: LSB #538

 Communion Hymn #1: Soon and Very Soon: WOV #744, ELW #439

 Communion Hymn #2: Jesus Shall Reign: LBW #530, ELW #434, LSB #832

 Closing Hymn: Alleluia! Sing to Jesus: LBW #158, ELW #392, LSB #821

            OR Crown Him with Many Crowns LBW #170, ELW #855, LSB #525

 

 

 

 

 

 

September 26: 18^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 21

 Numbers 11:4-6, 10-16, 24-29 (Israel kvetches to Moses. Moses kvetches to God. God appoints 70 to help him deal with aforementioned kvetching)

 Psalm 104:27-35 (You give food in due season; your Spirit gives them breath)

      RCL/ELW: Psalm 19:7-14: (God’s perfect law keeps one from sin; let words of mouth, meditation of heart be acceptable in his sight)

 James 5:1-20 (Warning to rich oppressors; patience in suffering; prayers, anointing, and confession; bringing one back from sin a great thing)

     RCL/ELW: James 5:13-20 (omits first 2 things)

 Mark 9:38-50 (Who is not against me is for me; cup of cold water; solemn warning about temptations to sin)

 

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THE PRAYERS 

 

Trusting, through the power of the Holy Spirit, in the goodness of our heavenly Father, let us pray in Jesus’ name for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Dear Father, thank you for being good to us even when we complain, balk, and act like jerks instead of Jesus. Thank you for giving us little things we can do to show our love for you. Thank you for prayer, anointing, and loving exhortation that calls us away from sin and back to you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You appointed 70 elders to ease Moses’ burden of leadership. Give your Church Spirit-filled pastors, priests, bishops, deacons, and teachers. Keep them obedient to your Word. Make them radiant with the love of Jesus. By their holy care, keep everyone in their charge safe from sin and from the allure of evil.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

We pray for persecuted Christians throughout the world. Give them patience in suffering and hope in their darkest night. Help us, who have much, to refresh them with our prayers and with whatever gifts we can share, even if it seems as small as a cup of cold water.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant a spirit of charity and patience to this congregation. Remind us, even when it would be easy to complain, of Jesus’ words, “Whoever is not against Me is for Me!” Help us to work together kindly and willingly. Make us eager to share the gifts you have lavished upon us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

We pray for all who struggle against any temptation to sin. Their battle may be long, hard, and hidden from others. Help us deal gently with everyone we meet. Only you know what burdens they bear and what demons they battle.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Remind our earthly leaders that they have been entrusted with a solemn obligation: to care for their people, especially the poor, hungry, and oppressed. Give them grace to think, speak, and act according to your will, for the common good. Help all of us to treat our neighbors with respect, kindness and justice, so that we may live peaceably with one another.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Shield and strengthen all who go into harm’s way in defense of life and liberty. Give them wisdom, integrity, self-control, and sound judgment, even in chaotic situations. Bring them back to their loved ones safely and soon; and establish your peace among us all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Even a cup of cold water given in your name can be blessed refreshment to one who suffers. Grant this and more to all who are in distress – especially: {List}. Restore them to health and hope. Grant a double portion of your Spirit to all who minister to them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you, Father, for your faithful servants whom you have gathered into your Kingdom. Fill those who mourn with “tidings of comfort and joy.” Fill us all with your steadfast love and mercy. Fill us with the sure hope that through the merits of your dear Son, you will welcome us, with all the redeemed, into your Kingdom, where we will rejoice in your love forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

September 19: 17^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 20

 

Jeremiah 11:18-20 (Jeremiah’s life threatened, like lamb led to slaughter)

 Psalm 54 (Save me, O God, by your name; vindicate my by your might)

 James 3:13-4:10 (Earthly versus heavenly wisdom and friendship)

            RCL/ELW: James 3:13-4:3, 7-8a (Eliminates “Adulterers! Friendship with world is enmity with God,” and exhortation to lament sin, humble self that God may exalt)

 Mark 9:30-37 (Passion prediction; argument over who is greatest)

 

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THE PRAYERS 

 

Trusting, through the power of the Holy Spirit, in the goodness of our heavenly Father, let us pray in Jesus’ name for the Church, the world, and one another.

 

A brief silence

 

Most holy Father, thank you for Jesus, our spotless and innocent lamb, slain to take away our sin. Thank you that he willingly suffered betrayal, torture, and death for love of us. Thank you for saving us in the strong name of Jesus.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Conform your Church to your beloved Son, and not to the world. Make it model his love, forgiveness, and purity to those who scorn or have forgotten such things. Through its words and deeds, lead many to the foot of Jesus’ Cross, there to receive life and salvation.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Help those of us who are comfortable in our Christianity to serve, defend, and provide for your persecuted and suffering Church. Let us never, by scandalous words or selfish deeds, cheapen or debase their faithful witness to their Savior – and ours.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

We ask your blessing upon this congregation and all its ministries. Help us to take delight in glorifying your name through self-giving service to one another and to our communities.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Jesus exalts servanthood as an example of his loving obedience to his Father. It’s easy for us to overlook or belittle those who actually are servants in everyday life. Bless them, and adorn their labors with the loveliness of Christ’s labors on our behalf. Help us to notice, honor, and compensate servants, laborers, hired hands, and others who do the work we’d rather not.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Rulers and leaders, celebrities and authorities are used to lording it over others. Give them a teachable spirit and humble heart. Make them eager to use their riches of intellect, authority, and station to serve the people entrusted to their care. Give each of us the grace, wisdom, and kindness to be true friends, neighbors, and servants to those around us.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Raise up pastors and evangelists who boldly preach and tenderly care for people who are starving for your Word. Help us to encourage and provide for them. Bless seminaries as they teach them. Bless spiritual directors and mentors who shape them into your servant leaders.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Thank you for doctors, nurses, therapists, EMT’s, orderlies, and all whose service helps people in deep distress. Give them a double portion of your Spirit. Use their skills and our support and prayers to bring healing and comfort the abused, imprisoned, sick, wounded, lonely, confused, grieving, or dying. Especially we plead on behalf of: {List}.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Father, we thank you for all your good and faithful servants, especially those whose deaths we mourn. Keep us steadfast in faith, firm in hope, constant in love, generous in service, and abundant in joy as we continue our earthly pilgrimage. Lead us in this life “with the Cross of Jesus going on before.” Bring us, through his good work, into the blessed Kingdom where we find our eternal life and joy in union with you and with all whom you have redeemed.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

September 12: 16^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 19

 

Isaiah 50:4-10 (Suffering Servant’s humiliation and vindication)

            RCL/ELW: Isaiah 50:4-9a (eliminates punishment of Suffering Servant’s accusers, and also the verse about obeying God while walking in darkness)

Psalm 116:1-9 (You deliver soul from death, eyes from tears, feet from stumbling)

 James 3:1-12 (Taming the tongue)

 Mark 9:14-29 (Jesus heals the boy with epilepsy)

            RCL/ELW: Mark 8:27-38 (Peter’s confession, Jesus’ rebuke, following him involves self-denial)

 

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THE PRAYERS 

 

Trusting, through the power of the Holy Spirit, in the goodness of our heavenly Father, let us pray in Jesus’ name for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Father, thank you for delivering our souls from death, our eyes from tears, and our feet from stumbling. Thank you for your Son, who took on our stumbling, tears, sins, and death, and who gives us his holy and lovely life in return. Thank you for healing us so that we can follow Jesus and share him with the whole world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant that your Church always proclaims Christ crucified and raised from the dead. Let it constantly confess Jesus as your only-begotten Son and beloved Servant, who bears and heals the world’s sin, sorrow, and suffering.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Persecuted Christians throughout the world bear their cross in faithful obedience to Jesus. Sustain, protect, bless, and provide for them. Help us, whose crosses are lighter, to bear their burdens however we can.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Increase the faith of everyone in this congregation, dear Lord. Conform our worship and works to Christ. Use us to bring his healing, forgiveness, and salvation to those who need it most.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Most church programs start now. Bless and prosper all that glorifies you and builds up the Body of Christ. Increase our love of learning, zeal for service, and warmth of spirit. Especially we pray for teachers, discipleship guides, choirs, committees, and all who shine the love of Jesus upon those who do not know him well.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Grant humility and wisdom to the leaders of nations and captains of industry, the giants of culture and icons of sport, the legislators and judges, the researchers, teachers, philosophers, and others who shape our world. Remind them that all they have is from you, given in trust for the benefit of all people. Give everyone the desire and ability to live justly and kindly with each other, despite our differences.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

We reflect on the 20^th anniversary of 9-11, and pray that never again shall hatred and evil ideology cause such harm anywhere on this poor suffering earth. Beat our swords into plowshares and our spears into pruning-hooks. Soften every heart to receive, cherish, and share your pure, holy love for us, for we are all created in your image and offered forgiveness and salvation through the death and resurrection of your Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Sometimes as we pray for loved ones in distress, we are like the father who cried out to you, “Lord, I believe; help thou my unbelief!” Keep us steadfast in faith as we pray for all who suffer. Remind us all that Jesus has indeed “borne our sickness and carried our infirmity.” In his name we pray for: {List}.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy God, keep in your tender care our beloved dead. Help us to encourage one another in prayer, holy living, faith, and love. Receive us into the glorious company of all the redeemed, who with angels and archangels and all the hosts of heaven, praise and adore you forever – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

September 5: 15^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 18 (Labor Day Weekend)

Isaiah 35:4-7a (Promise of recompense, salvation, healing and joy)

 Psalm 146 (God sets prisoners free, opens eyes of blind, lifts poor from the dust)

 James 2:1-10, 14-18 (Warning against partiality; faith without works is dead)

 Mark 7:24-37 (Syrophoenician woman’s faith; Jesus heals deaf man)

 

THE PRAYERS 

 

Trusting, through the power of the Holy Spirit, in the goodness of our heavenly Father, let us pray in Jesus’ name for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Father, thank you for the persistent faith of the Syrophoenician woman. Thank you for James’ blunt words about partiality and judgment, and about faith and works. Thank you for stretching our hearts, minds, and souls as you challenge and enlarge our faith in Jesus.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heal and restore your church, purchased with the precious blood of your Son. Drive from it all partiality and false teaching. Fill it with such faith in Jesus that all its words and deeds cause many to hear the Good News, turn to you, and receive forgiveness, life, and salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Give a spirit of trustfulness to your Church when it is persecuted for confessing Christ as Savior. Grant repentance and faith to its foes, until all hearts turn to you in adoration and praise.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give the people of this congregation such confidence in the love of Christ that they trust his holy Word, treasure his life-giving Sacraments, and constantly tell others of his great mercy.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Thank you for the dignity of work, the joy of relaxation, and the opportunity to create. Grant satisfaction and just reward for honest labor of hand and mind. Help us provide relief for those who cannot work, or whose businesses are struggling. Teach us to honor all work that is done with an upright heart.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

You are Lord of all the nations. To you all the rulers of the earth shall bow down and give an account of their deeds. Teach them to act with wisdom and without partiality. Let them care for the widows, widowers, orphans, and destitute. Cause them to seek justice within and peace beyond their borders. Make them examples of integrity and compassion to their citizens.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Protect and guide our military and all who stand in harm’s way. Bring healing to the wounded and give strength and patience to their families. Use their skills, whether here or abroad, to establish the blessings of liberty, justice, and peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Grant that all who cry to you for help and healing; for forgiveness and restoration; or for guidance and comfort, may find your grace sufficient for their need. Especially we lift before you: {list}.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Father, we entrust to you all who clung to your promises in this life, and whose death we now mourn. Grant us hope in our Lord Jesus, so our sorrow turns to joy. Help us to encourage and assist each other. Bring us to your house, where we are fed not crumbs under the table, but the rich banquet fare of the Lamb’s high feast. By your gracious Spirit, let us, with all the redeemed, bless and adore you for the majesty and love which shines in the face of your dear Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

August 29: 14^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 17

 

Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-9 (Keep God’s command fully and diligently)

 Psalm 119:129-136 (Your decrees are wonderful; therefore my soul keeps them)

            RCL/ELW: Psalm 15 (Those who keep commandments may live on his holy hill)

 Ephesians 6:10-20 (Put on the whole armor of God)

            RCL/ELW: James 1:17-27 (Be doers, not just hearers, of the Word)

 Mark 7:14-23 (Defilement is from within, not without; evils arise in human heart)

            RCL/ELW: Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 (Jesus rebukes Pharisee’s criticism; omits a repetition)

 

 

THE PRAYERS 

 

Trusting, through the power of the Holy Spirit, in the goodness of our heavenly Father, let us pray in Jesus’ name for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Father, thank you for your commandments and ordinances, given to protect us from sin and limit its evil effect. Thank you for their goodness and wisdom. Help us to keep them out of love for you and for our neighbor.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

In this broken and fallen world, you array your Church in the armor of light and call it to words and deeds of valor. Make it a faithful, true, and bold doer of your strong Word. Form it into your strong fortress and safe haven for all who cry to you for help.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Strengthen the Church when it is attacked by those who despise you. Make it wield the weapons of the Spirit not in hatred, but in humble witness to the Prince of Peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Prosper the words and work of this congregation. In our ministries, let many hear the Good News, turn to you, and live. Make your love shine through our words and deeds, and shed its healing radiance upon those around us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

As many children head back to school, bless them with good teachers who instill the love of learning and respect for one another. Help us to be mentors, tutors, cheerleaders, and guides, especially for kids who struggle in school. Lead us all by the light of your wisdom and truth.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Shine the light of your countenance upon all who lead the nations. Give them wisdom, humility and integrity, so their people confidently turn to them for justice and may live in safety.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Clothe in the armor of light all who risk their lives for the sake of defending the innocent and restoring justice and freedom. Heal their hurts; support their loved ones; and help this nation to use their skills for peaceable purposes when their tour of duty is ended.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Grant healing, hope, and strength to all who are afflicted by sin and suffering. We lift before you the needs of: {List}. Surround them with your holy angels. Give refreshment, cheerfulness, and confidence to all who care for them. Restore them to the joy of fellowship with all of us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most gracious Father, thank you for the lives of all the faithful departed who were doers of your Word. Grant that we honorably wear the armor of light which you bestow upon us. Help us rightly wield the weapons of the Spirit, fight the good fight, and lay hold of the life, joy, and crown won for us by your Son, Jesus Christ, our Captain and our Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.