Invitation — Psalm 145:8
"The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love."
Quiet
Bible Song — Psalm 51:14-19
Deliver me from the guilt of bloodshed, O God,
you who are God my Savior,
and my tongue will sing of your righteousness.
Open my lips, Lord,
and my mouth will declare your praise.
You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it;
you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings.
My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit;
a broken and contrite heart
you, God, will not despise.
May it please you to prosper Zion,
to build up the walls of Jerusalem.
Then you will delight in the sacrifices of the righteous,
in burnt offerings offered whole;
then bulls will be offered on your altar.
Bible Reading — 2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:2
We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
As God's co-workers we urge you not to receive God's grace in vain. For he says,
"In the time of my favor I heard you,and in the day of salvation I helped you."
I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation.
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 deep understanding and gratitude for the cross of Jesus Christ
- for those living in poverty and suffering injustice
- for those who are homeless, and those who care for them
Prayer — BC 14
Freeing God, help me to face the hard truth about myself, that I am a prisoner to sin. Not only can I do no good without you, I can't even drum up a desire for you unless you first give it to me. Free me from the cramped cell of my sin and reconcile me to yourself through him who had no sin, Jesus my Savior. Amen.
Blessing — see Titus 2:14
Redeem us from all wickedness, purify us and make us your very own, eager to do what is good.