The 5th Sunday after Pentecost
The LORD, who is your God, has treated you well; so celebrate and let the joy out! ~ Joel 2:23 (ABP)
Because of Christ's faithfulness, we relate to God with boldness and confidence. ~ Ephesians 3:12 (ABP)
SUMMARY SENTENCE
God treats us well so we can confidently relate to him.
PRAYER
God, we are most grateful for the way that you have treated us -- your mercy and your grace -- your love poured out on us through the cross and resurrection. It changes everything about us -- or at least it does if we let it. I admit that I'm slow to wake up to the reality of what I've been given. Stir me from my groginess. I want my life to be a celebration of your faithfulness. Amen.
I will treat you with such kindness that your nation will grow strong, and I will also keep my promises to you. ~ Leviticus 26:9 (CEV)
For all of God’s promises have been fulfilled in Christ with a resounding “Yes!” And through Christ, our “Amen” (which means “Yes”) ascends to God for his glory. ~ 2 Corinthians 1:20 (NLT)
SUMMARY SENTENCE
We echo God's faithfulness and kindness.
PRAYER
Lord, up to this moment you have favored us with everything we need for life and service. Our selfish habits embarrass me in light of your faithfulness. By your Spirit, help us turn back to your way. Renew our faith by your promises and let us serve in forgiving love. Amen! Glory be to your holy name! (Daily Texts, Mount Carmel Ministries edition)
You made me; you created me.
Now give me the sense to follow your commands. ~ Psalm 119:73 (NLT)
God wants us to have faith in his Son Jesus Christ and to love each other. This is also what Jesus taught us to do. ~ 1 John 3:23 (CEV)
SUMMARY SENTENCE
God's command: Trust in Christ and love others.
PRAYER
Thank you, Lord, for your love for us. It's amazing that you still love us even when we don't love you or our neighbors. Change my heart, mind, and actions so that everything about me reflects the love you are extending to me. I want to live according to your instructions. Amen.
O LORD, our master, your glorious name -- your magnificent reputation -- blankets the planet! ~ Psalm 8:1 (ABP)
What God has done for me will never be forgotten,
the God whose very name is holy, set apart from all others. ~ Luke 1:49 (MSG)
SUMMARY SENTENCE God's honor is like none other.
PRAYER O LORD, our master, thank you again for involving yourself in the world you created. You could have just been a distant observer but you stayed involved. No one deserves honor like you. I admit, though, that I spend too much energy trying to manage my own reputation. Free me from that worry so that I can keep the focus on you. I'm going to become your number one fan. Amen.
