Prayers, November 2: All Saints Sunday

 

Sola/LSB: Revelation 7:(2-8) 9-17 (The tribes of Israel are numbered; behold a host arrayed in white, praising the God who has delivered them)

            ELW/RCL: Daniel 7:1-3, 15-18 (Vision of 4 great beasts; saints shall receive God’s kingdom forever)

ALL: Psalm 149 (Praise God for his deliverance – and his vengeance!)

Sola/LSB: 1 John 3:1-3 (We are God’s children; when Jesus appears, we shall be like him.)

            ELW/RCL: Ephesians 1:11-23 (Inheritance of saints in Christ; prayer for Spirit to enlighten, reveal Jesus’ greatness and gifts)

Sola/LSB: Matthew 5:1-12 (The beatitudes)

            ELW/RCL: (Beatitudes and woes; do to others as you wish them to do to you)

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Opening Hymn:  Behold the/a Host, Arrayed in White: ELW #425, LSB #676 (superior translation!)

Behold a Host, Like Mountains Bright LBW #314

OR  Alabare: WOV #791, LSB #800

OR Come, We That Love The Lord: WOV #742, ELW #625, LSB #669

Hymn of the Day: For All the Saints: LBW #174, ELW #422, LSB #677

OR Blest Are They: WOV #764, ELW #728, LSB #982

Communion Hymn #1: Children of the Heavenly Father: LBW #474, ELW #781, LSB #725

Communion Hymn #2: Love Divine, All Loves Excelling: LBW #315, ELW #631, LSB #700

Closing Hymn: All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name: LBW #328/9, LSB #549

OR Holy God, We Praise Your Name: LBW #535, ELW #414, LSB #940

 

In the power of the Spirit, let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ on behalf of the Church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence

Thank you, dear Father, for all the sinners whom you have redeemed and are pleased to call your saints! Thank you for their example of repentance, trust, and obedience, even when that was hard. Help us remember them with gratitude, and give us grace to follow in their footsteps.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Preserve and guide your one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church. Array it in the garments of salvation, and conform it to the likeness of your Son. Adorn it with the gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit. Make it a blessing to many, and a sign of your Kingdom’s close approach.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Make this congregation lovely with holiness. Let the light of Jesus shine through us, so other people glimpse his great love for them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

We pray for seminarians and those whom we sense are being called into the holy ministry. Make them pure of heart, filled with peace, and poor in spirit. We plead on behalf of missionaries. Help them to feed all who hunger and thirst with your bread of righteousness – and with earthly bread. And we ask your blessing upon all who are persecuted for Jesus’ sake. Fill them with joy, peace, and gentleness. Give them a gracious word truth and forgiveness, so that their tormentors may repent and be saved.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Lord, establish your Kingdom in our midst, and your peace within our hearts, communities, and nations. Make our earthly leaders wise and good, generous and just. Make us all to be pure and humble of heart, hungering and thirsting for your righteousness while easing the hunger and thirst of our neighbors.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Until your peace is established in this world, good men and women must risk their lives defending life, liberty, and justice. Bless and protect them. Shelter their families from fear. Bring them safely home. Heal their wounds to body and spirit; and use their service to build a happier and safer world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Deliver from suffering all those whose need is great, including: {List}. Give them the hope, comfort, and faith they need to weather their trials. Restore them to health and fellowship with all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most gracious Father, receive into your Kingdom our beloved dead, inclulding {List}. Keep us faithful, holy, and steadfast as we walk Jesus’ narrow Way. Give us joy along that way, and help us to encourage one another along it. Bring us safely into your Kingdom, promised to all whom you redeem through your dear Son. There let us see you face to face, and rejoice in your love forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.  AMEN.

 

Script:

Luke 17:11-19

Pastor: Good morning boys and girls! Welcome! Let’s say good morning to our friend Sammy. Ready? One, two, three: Good morning, Sammy!

Sammy: Good morning, everyone! Pastor, I just wanted to thank you for doing a great job.

Pastor: Thank you, Sammy.

Sammy: You always listen to me, tell me stories, teach me about the Word of God, and you are a great friend to me.

Pastor: That’s very kind of you, Sammy.

Sammy: I just wanted you to know.

Pastor: You know, Sammy, your thankfulness reminds me of the Gospel reading for today. Jesus healed ten men with a skin disease.

Sammy: A skin disease?

Pastor: Yes—they called out to Jesus and asked him to heal them. He healed them by telling them to go show themselves to the priests. On the way to the priests, they were healed.

Sammy: But why did he tell them to go to the priests? Why not just heal them right away?

Pastor: What do you think, boys and girls? Why did Jesus send the men to go to the priests instead of healing them right away?

[Allow time for responses]

Pastor: These are great answers and ideas. Jesus wanted the men to act in faith. Walking toward the priests meant a commitment of faith for them. And men with a skin disease were considered unclean. They were unable to worship God at the temple if they had a skin disease.

Sammy: So that would be like if we couldn’t go to church?

Pastor: Yes.

Sammy: But they couldn’t help it!

Pastor: That was the rule. In Jesus’s time, there was no cure for this skin disease.

Sammy: That’s horrible. They were forever banned from church. I love church. I want to be here every day.

Pastor: I know, Sammy. But you know, what? Jesus healed all ten of these men, and then they could go to worship God in the temple.

Sammy: And one of them went back to thank him. That man is my favorite. Jesus gave him his life back.

Pastor: Jesus gives each of us a new life in him, and it’s important to thank our God for the many gifts he gives us. In fact, let’s pray and thank him right now. Boys and girls, will you please fold your hands and bow your head? Dear Jesus, we thank you for your healing power. We praise you for directing us to you. Help us to be thankful for everything you give us. Amen.

Sammy: Bye, everyone!

Pastor: Bye, Sammy!

Luke 17:5-10

Script:

Pastor: Good morning boys and girls! Welcome! Let’s say good morning to our friend Sammy. Ready? One, two, three: Good morning, Sammy!

Sammy: Good morning, everyone! Pastor, I made it to church on time this morning.

Pastor: That’s great, Sammy.

Sammy: I do a good job of showing up almost every week. Sometimes I get sick and I have to stay home. Or sometimes I go to the beach on vacation.

Pastor: I am proud of you for coming to church, Sammy.

Sammy: I also pray, and I sing, and I talk to the kids here about God.

Pastor: Yes, you do.

Sammy: And I take the time to help you out, Pastor. That’s a lot of work. I found your keys, invited myself to your house for dinner…

Pastor: Where are you going with this, Sammy?

Sammy: Well, none of it is good enough, is it, Pastor?

Pastor: What do you mean?

Sammy: I was reflecting on the Gospel reading for today, and I was just thinking that all the things I do and all the effort I put into church and my family isn’t good enough.

Pastor: That’s right, Sammy. We will never be good enough. Jesus talks in the reading today about how if we live a holy and righteous life, that is what we are supposed to do. If we show up to church every week, if we sing in the choir, feed the hungry, help each other, serve each other, and love each other, we have done the minimum and we haven’t added anything to the Kingdom of Heaven.

Sammy: So I have to be a good Christian and it’s still not good enough.

Pastor: That’s correct. We sin every day, and doing our best to live a holy life is all we can do. We have to rely on Jesus to do the rest.

Sammy: What do you mean?

Pastor: Boys and girls, what did Jesus do for us?

[Allow time for responses]

Pastor: Jesus died on the cross for our sins. He took all of the sin and shame that we have and he covered us with his grace. He forgives us when we ask him to forgive us because of his great love for us.

Sammy: That’s beautiful.

Pastor: Yes it is. One thing you should know, Sammy, is that when we come to the Kingdom of Heaven, we go empty handed. We don’t bring anything with us, just our sin and our shame. Even as a pastor, I will approach Jesus with my hands bearing my shame. There is nothing I can do or say that will make me good enough in his eyes.

Sammy: That’s why we cling to the cross of Jesus.

Pastor: Yes, that is why we cling to the cross.

Sammy: Whew. That’s a relief.

Pastor: What do you mean?

Sammy: I have a lot of peace now. I was going to make a spreadsheet of all the things I do for Jesus around here. But like we talked about, I am supposed to do all the things I do. And I’ll cling to the cross of Jesus forever.

Pastor: Me too. Let’s pray. Can you all please fold your hands and bow your heads? Dear Jesus, help us to realize we aren’t good enough. Help us to know you are the only one who adds to the Kingdom of Heaven. Thank you for letting us join you in Heaven. We love you. Amen.

Sammy: Bye, everyone!

Pastor: Bye, Sammy!

Luke 16:19-31

 

Pastor: Good morning boys and girls! Welcome! Let’s say good morning to our friend Sammy. Ready? One, two, three: Good morning, Sammy!

Sammy: Good morning everyone!

Pastor: Sammy, today we are learning about a man named Lazarus.

Sammy: Yes! Lazarus is such a cool name.

Pastor: Yes it is. What do you remember about Lazarus, Sammy?

Sammy: Well, I know that he likes dogs. Maybe the dogs like him. He has a dog. No wait: he has several dogs. I think the dogs lick him.

Pastor: Hold on, Sammy. It seems like you remember the part about the dogs licking Lazarus’s sores.

Sammy: Yes that’s the part I remember.

Pastor: Boys and girls, do you remember anything else about Lazarus?

[Allow time for responses]

Pastor: Lazarus had a hard life on earth. He was poor. He ate scraps of food. And the dogs licked his sores.

Sammy: So Lazarus was hungry a lot and he had a lot of boo-boos.

Pastor: Yes he was, and he did.

Sammy: That’s horrible. Why didn’t anyone help him?

Pastor: I am not sure. The rich man in the story had a lot of money and was able to help Lazarus, but he chose not to help him.

Sammy: Well, why not?!

Pastor: Sometimes it’s hard to think of other people when everything is going well in our lives. When our lives are challenging, and we receive help from others, then we realize the importance of giving what we can to each other.

Sammy: I know our church helps a lot. We give food and clothes and supplies to other people in our community.

Pastor: Yes, we do. We have many people here who are very generous. And that’s what Jesus wants of us. He wants us to give to each other. He wants us to love each other.

Sammy: What happened to Lazarus in the end? Did the rich man finally help him?

Pastor: No, the rich man never helped Lazarus. Lazarus went to heaven and the angels waited on him. The angels gave him food and something to drink. They helped him put on better clothes, too. Lazarus gets to spend eternity with Jesus.

Sammy: At least the story has a good ending.

Pastor: Yes—for Lazarus.

Sammy: Boys and girls, will you pray with me? Will you please fold your hands and bow your heads? Dear Jesus, help us to see the poor and the hungry in our community. Help us to feed others. Thank you for giving us serving and loving hearts. Amen.

Pastor: Bye, Sammy!

Sammy: Bye, everyone!

Luke 16:1-13

Script:

Pastor: Good morning boys and girls! Welcome! Let’s say good morning to our friend Sammy. Ready? One, two, three: Good morning, Sammy!

Sammy: Good morning, everyone! Pastor, I’ve decided today that I am going to be a manager.

Pastor: That’s a great goal, Sammy! When you become an adult sheep, I am sure Farmer Luke would be willing to give you more responsibilities around the farm.

Sammy: Actually, Pastor, I am going to start being a manager today.

Pastor: Sammy, in order to be a manager, you need someone or something to manage.

Sammy: Yes, Pastor. I know that. Today is the first day that I am going to be your manager.

Pastor: Sammy, that’s not going to work.

Sammy: Why not?

Pastor: I am not sure you know what a manager is, Sammy. Boys and girls, will you help me explain this concept to Sammy? What is a manager?

[Allow time for responses]

Sammy: That makes sense. A manager keeps track of people and items and helps to run a business in a smooth way. This person keeps everyone focused.

Pastor: Exactly.

Sammy: I don’t know, Pastor. I think you really need me in this role.

Pastor: Sammy.

Sammy: I’ve seen your office, Pastor. The dust bunnies tell me everything. You need me to be your manager.

Pastor: Let’s refocus. Jesus talked to his disciples about a manager who wasn’t doing a good job in the Gospel of Luke today. The manager almost lost his job, but he decided he needed to try once more to impress his boss. He settled accounts and did his best to collect as much income as he could.

Sammy: He sounds like he tried.

Pastor: Yes, he did, but only after his master talked with him. You see, Jesus is teaching about faith. When we have a little bit of faith, we can accomplish only a little bit. But when we have a big faith, we can accomplish big things. That’s the power of God’s work in us.

Sammy: So we don’t want to be managers, then?

Pastor: There’s nothing wrong with being a manager; we just want to be good managers of all that we are given.

Sammy: That make sense to me.

Pastor: Let’s pray: would everyone please fold your hands and bow your head? Dear Jesus, we love you. Please increase our faith in you and help us to always look to you for help. Amen.

Sammy: Bye, everyone!

Pastor: Bye, Sammy!

Prayers, October 26: Reformation Sunday

 

Revelation 14:6-7 (Eternal Gospel announced to every person)

Psalm 46 (A mighty fortress!)

Romans 3:19-28 (We’re 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:   Word of God, Come Down on Earth: WOV 716, ELW #510, LSB #545

OR Christ is Made the Sure Foundation: WOV #747, ELW #645, LSB #909

Hymn of the Day: A Mighty Fortress is Our God LBW #229

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

Communion Hymn #2: Amazing Grace: LBW #448, ELW #779, LSB #744

Closing Hymn: Built on A/The Rock the Church Shall Stand: LBW #365, ELW #652, LSB #645

*******

Let us pray in the name of Jesus to our heavenly Father for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Thank you, dear Father, for all who love your Church. Thank you for raising up prophets, apostles, martyrs, theologians, and ordinary saints who treasure your holy Word and love your Church, even when she stumbles and sins. Thank you for Jesus, who makes the Church his Bride, and who even now makes her lovely with holiness, charity, and righteousness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Pour out your Holy Spirit upon your Church.  Make it your holy habitation. Keep it steadfast in your Word. Strengthen it in the face of temptation and defend it from evil. Purify it from sin and error, and bestow on it your saving peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Graciously protect and guide the people of this congregation, O Lord, our Help and our Redeemer. Gladden our hearts by filling them with the gifts of your Holy Spirit. Use us to nourish, instruct, and invite our neighbors into your presence.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Be the refuge and strength of Christians when they are persecuted for confessing Jesus as Lord. Cause the enemies of the Gospel to repent of their sinfulness, turn to you, and live.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Exalt yourself among the nations, and speak your holy word to your world, especially to the leaders of our country. Give them wisdom and a teachable spirit. Grant them the desire to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly before you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Bless the work of faithful theologians who clarify doctrine, correct misunderstandings, and teach the faithful. Use them to educate seminarians and missionaries who will eagerly proclaim the Gospel: your Son, Jesus Christ, crucified and risen to forgive sins and open your Kingdom to all who will receive him.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

We lift before you the needs of all whose lives are shaken and troubled by suffering, including: {List}. Be in their midst and let them not be overthrown. Say to them, ‘be still, and know that I am God.’ Restore them to health and hope, that they may proclaim the awesome things you have done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy Lord, we give you thanks for the lives of our beloved dead whom you have redeemed through the precious blood of your dear Son. Grant that we may humbly follow in their footsteps, boldly trust in your promises, faithfully proclaim your Word; and cheerfully serve in your Name. Bring us, through the merits of Jesus, into your Kingdom, where with all the redeemed, we shall glorify you in the unity of your most holy Spirit forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.  AMEN.

 

Prayers, October 19: 19^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 24)

OR St. Luke, Evangelist, transferred

 

Pentecost 19 lessons and hymns

 

Genesis 32:22-30 (Jacob wrestles with mysterious stranger, is wounded but named Israel)

Psalm 121 (My help comes from the Lord. He neither slumbers nor sleeps,

will watch your going and coming)

2 Timothy 3:14-4:5 (All Scripture is inspired, useful for teaching and reproof;

 but people will have itching ears and refuse sound doctrine)

Luke 18:1-8 (Parable of widow and unjust judge; God hears cries of his chosen ones;

but will Son of Man find such faith when he returns?)

 

*******

 

Opening Hymn: Thy Strong Word: LBW #233, ELW #511, LSB #578

OR Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing: LBW #499, ELW #807, LSB #686

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

Communion Hymn #1: O God of Jacob, By Whose Hand: LBW #477

            OR O God, Our Help in Ages Past: LBW #320, ELW #632, LSB #733

Communion Hymn #2: My Faith Looks Up to Thee LBW #479, LSB #702

Closing Hymn: Great is Thy Faithfulness WOV #771, ELW #733, LSB #809

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

 

*******

 

Let us pray in the name of Jesus to our heavenly Father for the Church, the world, and one another.

 

A brief silence

 

Heavenly Father, sometimes our ears itch because we desire convenient untruths. Sometimes we wrestle with your Word and come away hobbling. Sometimes it’s hard to love, trust, and obey you! Thank you for hearing our prayers anyhow. Thank you for touching us with healing and blessing, not just rebuke and warning. Thank you for Jesus, who is your Truth, Blessing, Word, and Love incarnate.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Make your Church throughout the world always confess and preach that all Scripture is inspired, useful for teaching and reproof. Fill it with your Holy Spirit, so that it penetrates itching ears with the pure doctrine of Christ, crucified and raised from the dead for the forgiveness of sin unto life everlasting.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Keep everyone in this congregation in your merciful care. Conform our hearts to your will. Help us pray boldly and persistently. In all things, let us glorify you, bear witness to your holy and gracious Word, and lead lives worthy of our calling as your children.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Do not slumber or sleep, O Lord, while your suffering Church prays to you. Hear their cries and come to their aid. Soften the hearts of their unjust judges and persecutors. Make those repent of their evil and do what is right in your sight. Grant faith, persistence, and compassion to all who preach the Gospel to those who have not heard the name of Christ aright.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Bless our war-torn world with your peace. Give it leaders who do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly in your sight. Look with kindness upon the poor and needy, the widow and orphan, and all to whom justice has been denied. Spur us to give practical, compassionate help, so all receive your blessings.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

We pray for lawyers, judges, magistrates, and for all who make or interpret laws and administer justice. Give them uprightness of heart and a passion for truth. Make them wise, fair, and impartial in their decisions. Through their work, accomplish your holy and gracious will in our midst.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Hear the cries of all who suffer, including: {List}. Bring them safely through their trials, and give them faith in your gracious love. Bless and strengthen everyone who assists in their care.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Thank you, dear Father, for our loved ones who have died and are asleep in your arms. Until we are reunited with them and with all whom you have redeemed, keep us steadfast in faith, persistent in prayer, and attentive to your Word. Let enter your presence in the company of all the saints, and forever worship, praise, and adore you for your love, given through your Son Jesus Christ our Savior.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.  AMEN.

 

**************************

 

St. Luke lessons and hymns

 

Isaiah 43:8-13 (I am your God and Savior; and you are my witnesses!)

            Or Isaiah 35:5-8 (Promise that the blind shall see, lame shall run; there will be water, joy,

and a highway in the desert)

Psalm 124 (The Lord was on our side, we have escaped our enemies!)

2 Timothy 4:5-11 (Paul has run his race, fought his fight; only Luke remains with him now)

Luke 1:1-4; 24:44 (…then Jesus said…)-53 (Why Luke writes; conclusion of Gospel)

 

*******

 

Opening Hymn:   Thy Strong Word, v.1-3: LBW #233, ELW #511, LSB #578

OR Hail To the Lord’s Anointed: LBW #87, ELW #311, LSB #398

Hymn of the Day: Hark, the Voice of Jesus  Calling: LBW #381, LSB #827

OR By All Your Saints in Warfare:

LBW #178, v. 1,19,3; ELW #1,21,2,last; LSB #518, v.1,26,3

Communion Hymn #1: O Word of God Incarnate: LBW #231, ELW #514, LSB #523

Communion Hymn #2: Here Am I, Lord: WOV #752, ELW #574

Closing Hymn: Thy Strong Word, v.4-5: LBW #233, ELW #511, LSB #578

 

********

 

Let us pray in the name of Jesus to our heavenly Father for the Church, the world, and one another.

 

A brief silence

 

Heavenly Father, thank you for Luke, your servant, whose Gospel is so dear to us. Thank you for Jesus, who is your Truth, Blessing, Word, and Love incarnate.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Make your Church throughout the world always confess and preach that all Scripture is inspired, useful for teaching and reproof. Fill it with your Holy Spirit, so many may hear and believe the Good News of Jesus Christ, crucified and raised from the dead for the forgiveness of sin unto life everlasting.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Keep everyone in this congregation in your merciful care. Conform our hearts to your will. Help us pray boldly and persistently. In all things, let us glorify you, bear witness to your holy and gracious Word, and lead lives worthy of our calling as your children.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Do not slumber or sleep, O Lord, while your suffering Church prays to you. Hear their cries and come to their aid. Soften the hearts of their unjust judges and persecutors. Make those repent of their evil and do what is right in your sight. Grant faith, persistence, and compassion to all who preach the Gospel to those who have not heard the name of Christ aright.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Bless our war-torn world with your peace. Give it leaders who do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly in your sight. Look with kindness upon the poor and needy, the widow and orphan, and all to whom justice has been denied. Spur us to give practical, compassionate help, so all receive your blessings.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Jesus came to heal the sick and sinful, and his servant Luke was also a physician. We pray therefore for doctors, nurses, and everyone who practices the healing arts and cares for the sick and wounded. Through their wise and compassionate care, touch all who suffer with your own life-giving love.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Hear the cries of all who suffer, including: {List}. Bring them safely through their trials, and give them faith in your gracious love. Bless and strengthen everyone who assists in their care.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Thank you, dear Father, for our loved ones who have died and are asleep in your arms. Until we are reunited with them and with all whom you have redeemed, keep us steadfast in faith, persistent in prayer, and attentive to your Word. Let enter your presence in the company of all the saints, and forever worship, praise, and adore you for your love, given through your Son Jesus Christ our Savior.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.  AMEN.

 

Prayers, October 12: 18^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 23)

 

Ruth 1:1-19a (Ruth’s love for Naomi)

                ELW/RCL: 2 Kings 5:1-3, 7-15 (Naaman the leper healed by Elisha)

Psalm 111 (God is gracious, provides for those who fear him. His works, laws are trustworthy)

2 Timothy 2:1-13 (Paul encourages Timothy to be steadfast and diligent in his labors)

                ELW/RCL: 1 Timothy 2:8-15 (Eliminates exhortation to strive, even suffer; adds counsel to exhort against quarreling and to be worker approved by God)

Luke 17:11-19 (Jesus heals 10 lepers; one returns to thank and worship)

*******

Opening Hymn:  Jesus, Thy Boundless Love to Me LBW #336, LSB #683

OR We Praise You, O God: LBW #241, ELW #870, LSB #785

Hymn of the Day: O God Beyond All Praising WOV #797

OR O, For A Thousand Tongues To Sing: LBW #559, ELW #836, LSB #528

Communion Hymn #1: Blest be the Tie that Binds LBW #370, ELW #656, LSB #649

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

Closing Hymn: Lift Every Voice and Sing LBW #562, ELW #841, LSB #964

OR Oh, Worship the King, All Glorious Above: LBW #548, ELW #842, LSB #804

*******

 

For the Church, the world, and all people, let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

A brief silence

Father, thank you for your steadfast love. Thank you every good gift that you give us. We are so blessed. Tune our hearts to sing your praise. Make our feet lovely with the eagerness to run to others with tokens of your mercy and goodness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give to your Church the faithful love for you and for one another that Ruth had for Naomi. Let it be like the little Hebrew girl who pointed Naaman to the One who could heal his body and capture his heart. Stir up in it the thankful worship of the Samaritan leper. Grant it the bold and truthful witness of Paul and Timothy. In other words, give your church righteous pastors and people! And use your Church to show your goodness toward those who fear you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

We pray for this congregation – its people, its ministries, and its mission. In all things, use us to point others to Jesus, so that many people may receive his life and salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Help us to remember, defend, assist, and walk with Christians who are persecuted for their faith in Jesus. Let their faith, hope and love be a shining witness in places of spiritual darkness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

We pray for our world, broken by evil and bruised by violence. By your Spirit, cause all of us to love your Word and seek to obey your commandments. Give wisdom, integrity, and common sense to our elected and appointed leaders. Guide all who are entrusted with authority in government, commerce, education, and whatever else affects your people in their everyday lives.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Be gracious and merciful to widows and widowers, to the chronically ill and marginalized, and to all are embittered by loss and grief. Help us to walk with them, encourage them, and show them kindness and understanding.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Our Lord Jesus, in his infinite compassion, healed ten lepers. We pray that he do so the same for everyone afflicted by disease, despair, or the shadow of death. Today we life before you the needs of: {List}. Grant them healing, hope, and grateful hearts; and reunite them with all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most Holy and blessed Father, bring your perfect, eternal healing to all who have died trusting in your promises.  Comfort all who mourn. Give us devoted friendship, diligent service, and grateful hearts. For Jesus’ sake, deliver us from evil and forgive us our sins. Heal us in body, soul, mind, and heart, so with our whole being, we may love and praise you eternally in the company of everyone you have redeemed.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.  AMEN.

 

Prayers, October 5: 17^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 22)

 

Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4 (Prophet mourns that he can only see evil and violence; but he will

             stand at his watch post; he must write God’s words large and bold)

Psalm 62 (For God my soul in stillness waits; he alone is my rock, strength, and salvation)

            ELW/RCL: Psalm 37:1-9 (Commit your way to God; don’t fret over evildoers)

2 Timothy 1:1-14 (Rekindle gift given at ordination; never be ashamed of Christ)

Luke 17:1-10 (Again, don’t cause another to stumble! Forgive willingly; have mustard seed faith; do your work faithfully whether the Master is away or is present)

            ELW/RCL: Luke 17:5-10 (Eliminates warning to not mislead little ones, rebuking brother, forgiving repeatedly if he repents)

*******

Opening Hymn:   Holy Spirit, Truth/Light Divine: LBW #257, ELW #398; LSB #496

Hymn of the Day: Awake, O Spirit of the Watchmen: LBW #382

(not real familiar, but not a tough tune, and the words bridge the 3 lessons well)

OR God of Grace and God of Glory: LBW #415, ELW #705, ELW #850

Communion Hymn #1: Forgive Our Sins as We Forgive: LBW #307, ELW #605, LSB #843

Communion Hymn #2: O Master, Let Me Walk With You: LBW #492, ELW #818

Closing Hymn: My Hope is Built on Nothing Less: LBW #293/4; ELW #596/7; LSB #576/6

 

*******

 

For the Church, the world, and all people, let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

A brief silence

Dear heavenly Father, thank you for planting the mustard-seed of faith in us! Please water it with your Holy Spirit. Make its roots delve deep into your holy Word and Sacraments. Cause that seed to blossom and come to fruition, nourishing a hungry world with your son’s forgiveness and love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We ask your protection, guidance and blessing upon your Church. Make it steadfast in faith, courageous in witness, truthful in teaching and preaching, and gracious in service. Use it to lead many souls to Jesus.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Fill this congregation with your Holy Spirit. Let us never seem ashamed of Christ, but instead share his holy and forgiving love with everyone we encounter.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Give all missionaries strength to do their Master’s work faithfully and well until he comes in glory. Shield and strengthen our sisters and brothers who are persecuted on account of Jesus. Give them grace and courage to stand at their watch-post and to speak and live your Word boldly and truly. Let their tormentors repent of their evil ways and turn to you, the Lord of all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Grant that the leaders of all nations, especially our own, acknowledge you as their Lord and Master. Let them faithfully and diligently do the work entrusted to them, knowing they must give to you an account of their actions. Help them to strive for justice tempered with mercy, and for peace wedded to righteousness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Grant the watchman’s courage and faithfulness to all who protect and defend life from evil and violence. Especially we pray for our military, and all first responders. Prosper all they do that accomplishes your purposes. Be their mighty fortress when they are in peril. Reunite them safely with their loved ones. May we honor their service and benefit from their skills.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Be the rock and salvation, the hope and eternal possession of all who cry out to you in time of trouble. Today we remember before you: {List}. Heal them of wounds to body, mind, and spirit. Give to all who care for them tender hearts, gentle hands, compassionate service, and loving encouragement.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Dear heavenly Father, thank you for fulfilling all your promises to those who have died trusting in you. Be the rock and salvation of all whose grief runs deep. Give them courage and hope. Make us gentle and tender-hearted with one another. Help us to forgive when the other sins, and to repent when we are wrong. When one stumbles, help the rest of us to support, guide, and encourage. Lead us safely through the evils and sorrows of this earthly life. Bring us into your Kingdom and into eternal fellowship with you and those whom you have redeemed through the merits of your beloved Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.  AMEN.

 

Scripture: John 3:13-17

Script:

Pastor: Good morning boys and girls! Welcome! Let’s say good morning to our friend Sammy. Ready? One, two, three: Good morning, Sammy!

Sammy: Hey Pastor. I was paying attention to the gospel reading today. Jesus said the Son of Man must be lifted up. I’m not really sure what he means by that. Did they have to lift him up really high in the sky?

Pastor: Kind of Sammy. Before I answer that question. Have you seen any crosses around the church.

Sammy: Yes, I have seen them all over the place. Boys and girls, do you see any crosses around the church?

Wait for answers

Pastor: Thank you for answering everyone. I am really glad that you can find all those crosses. They seem to be everywhere. Even in places you wouldn’t expect them.

Sammy: Okay Pastor, but what does the cross have to do with the son of man being lifted up? That doesn’t seem to make sense to me.

Pastor: Well, the son of man is Jesus and sometimes when we see crosses, we see Jesus on them.

Sammy: Oh yeah, I have seen that before. You have one of those in your office. So, Jesus was lifted up on a cross?

Pastor: Yes he was Sammy. He was lifted up high on the cross on top of a mountain and many people could see him.

Sammy: That does not seem very nice. Who would do that do Jesus?

Pastor: Some very mean people hurt Jesus like he did something bad, but he did not do anything wrong. He ended up dying.  

Sammy: That makes me sad pastor.

Pastor: It made a lot of people very sad. His closest friends couldn’t even bear to watch it.

Sammy: But Pastor. You always say Jesus is alive.

Pastor: That’s because he is Sammy. Even though he died on the cross. He rose up from the dead and he was alive again. And he is still alive today.

Sammy: That makes me happy. But why did he have to die at all.

Pastor: He died to save us. Only he could save us from our sin and he did so by dying on the cross. He became a sacrifice and suffered death so we could live with him forever.

Sammy: Wow pastor. It sounds like God loves us a lot.

Pastor: He does Sammy. Jesus said,  ¹⁶ “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.”

Sammy: Thank you for explaining all of that to me pastor. That all makes more sense now. Boys and girls can you pray with me? Dear Jesus, Thank you for loving us so much. That you would die for us. Thank you lord for forgiving our sins. And thank you for your love. Amen.

Pastor and Sammy: Bye Everyone!