Invitation — Psalm 47:5-7
"God has ascended amid shouts of joy, the Lord amid the sounding of trumpets. Sing praises to God, sing praises; sing praises to our King, sing praises. For God is the King of all the earth; sing to him a psalm of praise."
Quiet
Bible Song — Psalm 103:1-5, 8, 13
Praise the Lord, my soul;
all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
Praise the Lord, my soul,
and forget not all his benefits —
who forgives all your sins
and heals all your diseases,
who redeems your life from the pit
and crowns you with love and compassion,
who satisfies your desires with good things
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's...
The Lord is compassionate and gracious,
slow to anger, abounding in love...
As a father has compassion on his children,
so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him.
Bible Reading — Luke 24:44-53
He said to them, "This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms."
Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. He told them, "This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high."
When he had led them out to the vicinity of Bethany, he lifted up his hands and blessed them. While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into heaven. Then they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. And they stayed continually at the temple, praising God.
Quiet
Dwelling
Read again, perhaps out loud ... how has God's Word moved you? Ponder and meditate what has connected with your heart or mind ... pray to God what it is that has moved you today ... turn your thoughts to God and quietly enjoy being with him.
Free Prayer
- for governments, world leaders, and the needs of our world
- for the continent of Australia
- for people living with HIV/AIDS
Prayer — HC 117
Sending God, how can I possibly represent you to a watching world? Let me start right here, on my knees, seeking the power that comes from on high. May your Spirit move me toward the world you love. Amen.
Blessing — Matthew 28:19-20
"Go and make disciples of all nations... And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."