December 21, 2020
OPENING PRAYER
Lord God Almighty: Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law. Open my ears, that I may tremble at your Word. Open my lips, that my mouth may declare your praise. Guide 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
Lord Jesus, all authority in heaven and earth has been given to you. I confess that I have neglected your command to make disciples. I have been content to keep the light of your gospel hidden. I have valued my comfort over your kingdom, my security over your power, and my reputation over your glory. Forgive me Lord, for my unbelief in the power of your Gospel and for my lack of faith in your promises. Jesus, ignite my desire for your coming kingdom, that my faith would be renewed and my hope strengthened. Let your light shine in me that others may see my good works and glorify you. Amen
OT READING: Genesis 3:1-15
THE LORD’S PRAYER
NT READING: 1 Thess 4
PRAYER OF ADORATION:
I worship you, Lord Jesus, because your return is imminent. You will descend from heaven; every eye will see you; and your people will enjoy eternal fellowship with you. Thank you for the comforting truth that death is not the end; the dead in Christ WILL rise again!
PSALM READING: Psalm 45
PRAYER OF CONSECRATION
Give me the grace, Lord, to set aside my distractions and join the psalmist in meditating on your perfection. I invite you to work in my imagination, so that I can see and admire you. I invite you to work on my ability to focus, so I can sustain attention on you. I invite you to work in my soul, so that I can tolerate the stillness it takes to pray deeply. Give me eyes to see and ears to hear you. Give me a refreshed heart, one that overflows with a song of love to you. This psalm reminds me that you are everything desirable. Powerful, compassionate, and just, with military might and courtly splendor. Your beauty has the power to change your people. As I gaze at you, I am re-made into your likeness. All generations remember you and all nations are drawn to your presence. Draw me to yourself today. Amen.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.