Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the grace that has brought us into your Communion — the communion of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Jesus Christ our Lord laid down His life that He might be lifted up for all to see on the Cross for your salvation. His death confounded the powers and authorities and you triumphed over death in His resurrection. You have delivered us from the evil one and have settled the debt of our rebellion.
Now by this gift of faith we are buried with Jesus in baptism and you have raised us into glorious life with Him!
Praise the Lord!
You have forgiven us our sins and free us from the tyranny of shame.
Praise the Lord!
For a time we do not yet see all things under your feet. Yet, we desire that your Spirit would continue to transform our hearts. May our feet and our hands move in accordance with your love. May our voices speak winsomely and boldly of Jesus who fills our hearts.
Oh Lord, teach us your ways. How our hearts are drawn to envy those with more of whatever the lusts of our eyes desire. How easily we are deceived to neglect the weightier matters and to let our hearts grow cold and hard.
We lift up to you the people of Ukraine and Russia suffering so terribly under the will of those who are set on destruction. Comfort them Lord and bring peace. Empower your church to serve and welcome people in your name with refreshment and with healing.
We lift up to you the people of Shanghai suffering through a pandemic lockdown. Minister to them and meet them in this season of restriction. Across the globe people need healing and an end to the pandemic. We ask for the people of this city that you would reveal the beauty and glory of Jesus to many and call them into the fellowship of your church.P
For ourselves Lord we pray that you would awaken us from dullness and apathy. Help us keep in pace with you. Conform our hearts to yours. Revive us Lord! Revive us — we open our hearts to you and say Come Lord Jesus.
(Please join me in the Lord’s Prayer.)
Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one;
for yours is the kingdom,
and the power, and the glory,
forever.
Amen.