Daily Worship

Lead us, guide us

June 11, 2015 0 0

Acts‬ 3‬:16

By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made strong. It is Jesus’ name and the faith that comes through him that has completely healed him, as you can all see.

We are witnesses, Lord, to your resurrection, the new world order bringing hope and life.   No, it's true, we weren't there that day when you stepped out of the tomb.  

But I was there when you healed my child.  The dead don't do that.  
Lord of life, in your life is life.  

I was there when my husband was out of work and miraculously someone offered him a job.  
Lord of the harvest you are the giver of every good gift.  

We were there in our mourning over a loved one's passing.  
Lord of heaven and earth you bless and comfort those who mourn.  
You help us live again.  

For so many, being witnesses to your resurrection, bearing the faith in the name of Jesus, is a gateway to such great suffering.  My heart fails when I consider their wounds, their pain.  

They say that the church of the Middle East will disappear through persecution and terrible acts of violence and the fear that grows.  And yet, Lord of the Universe, you birthed your church in Jerusalem, right in the heart of the Middle East.   Hear oh Lord, our prayers for the peace of Jerusalem.  

Holy Spirit empower us, your resurrection people, to shine great light where there is still great darkness.  Empower us to bring peace where there is great fear.  Empower us to be love where there is impenetrable hate.  

We imagine a world where the name of Jesus has been driven out.  Where there is no beauty for ashes, where there is no oil of joy for mourning, where there is no garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness.  

We ask you Holy Spirit to empower your people in those countries where death and destruction are stalking.  We pray for our loved ones In Syria, in Yemen, in Iraq, in Iran, in Pakistan, in India, in any country where the heart of those who have faith in the name of Jesus is trembling as footsteps approach and swords are raised.  

Lord of resurrection, we weep as Mary surely wept to see her own son beaten and crucified and we pray that the voices they hear will be those of hope, the footsteps that approach will be those of mercy and love and that your church will know its resurrection morning, breathing afresh the sweet breath of the Holy Spirit.  

Lead us, Lord, Guide us. 

Amen