October 7, 2020
OPENING PRAYER
To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul. O my God, in you I trust; let me not be put to shame; let not my enemies exult over me. Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long.
CONFESSION OF SIN & PRAYER FOR GRACE
Merciful God: You created me in your image, with a mind to know you, a heart to love you, and a will to serve you. But my knowledge is imperfect, my love inconstant, my obedience incomplete. Day by day, I fail to grow into your likeness. I confess my failure to glorify you as you designed me to. In your tender love, forgive me by the mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ. Strengthen me by your Spirit to walk in a manner worthy of the calling I have received, for the glory of your name. Amen.
OT READING: Proverbs 31:10-31
THE LORD’S PRAYER
NT READING: Luke 16:19-31
PRAYER OF ADORATION:
Jesus: I adore you that you have spoken decisively through Moses and the Prophets. It is in listening to them that my heart is prepared to respond to you, and to your glorious resurrection. Thank you for your eternal word, which points the way to you. Help me listen and obey.
PSALM READING: Psalm 66
PRAYER OF CONSECRATION
This psalm reminds us that the day is coming when all the earth will worship you, Lord. I rejoice that your enemies, who now seem so strong, will one day come cringing to you. This Psalm delights in your might and power, not just to boast, but to draw curious outsiders in. Even the sufferings of your people are redeemed and restored by Your loving power, and I can add my testimony to theirs. Like You did with Israel, You have kept my soul among the living; You have kept my foot from falling; you have brought me through fire and water to a place of abundance. When I lose heart, I’ll remind myself of all that the Lord has done for my soul. And I’ll rejoice that some day soon, all of creation will lie captive at the feet of Jesus Christ in glorious liberty.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship and communion of the Holy Spirit abide and remain with us, now and throughout our time on earth, until the day of His return: Amen.