January 28, 2021
Epiphany Day 23
OPENING PRAYER
O Lord, you have said, “Seek my face.” My heart says to you, “Your face, Lord, do I seek.” Do not hide your face from me. Do not turn me away in anger. Teach me your ways, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name.
CONFESSION OF SIN & PRAYER FOR GRACE
Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner. For although you have forgiven my sin, I have not forgiven those who sin against me. Inwardly, I harbor bitterness, resentment, and anger. Lift my eyes to your cross, Lord Jesus, that in remembrance of your salvation I would be freed from all resentment. Moreover, purify my thoughts and protect me from biting, sarcastic words. Help me to love and forgive others as you have loved and forgiven me, to the glory of your name. Amen
OT READING: Proverbs 23
THE LORD’S PRAYER
NT READING: Luke 4:21-30
PRAYER OF ADORATION:
Lord Jesus, I adore you as the Savior of all. You came to redeem everyone under the curse, to cleanse all who are stained by sin, to free all those who are in bondage. Thank you that your mercy is freely offered to all people, tribes, tongues, and nations.
PSALM READING: Psalm 111
PRAYER OF CONSECRATION
O Lord, with the psalmist and the congregation of your people through all time, I offer thanks to you with my whole heart. Your word confronts my individualism and my tendency toward self-focus. Help me remember that I’m part of the great company of God’s people, stretching back through time. Lift my eyes above myself, and remind me of your generational faithfulness to your people. As I go about the work of this day, help me return again to your grace, your mercy, and your generous provision. As I interact with the people and situations you’ve ordained, help me cultivate a restful heart, because I’m grounded in your covenant love. Give me the fear of the Lord, that I might grow in the wisdom this psalm describes. And give me an expansive vision for the community of believers to which I belong.
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.