Invitation — Psalm 57:9-10
"I will praise you, Lord, among the nations; I will sing of you among the peoples. For great is your love, reaching to the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies."
Quiet
Bible Song — Psalm 65:1-4, 8
Praise awaits you, our God, in Zion;
to you our vows will be fulfilled.
You who answer prayer,
to you all people will come.
When we were overwhelmed by sins,
you forgave our transgressions.
Blessed are those you choose
and bring near to live in your courts!
We are filled with the good things of your house,
of your holy temple...
The whole earth is filled with awe at your wonders;
where morning dawns, where evening fades,
you call forth songs of joy.
Bible Reading — Numbers 27:12-18, 22-23
Then the Lord said to Moses, "Go up this mountain in the Abarim Range and see the land I have given the Israelites. After you have seen it, you too will be gathered to your people, as your brother Aaron was, for when the community rebelled at the waters in the Desert of Zin, both of you disobeyed my command to honor me as holy before their eyes." (These were the waters of Meribah Kadesh, in the Desert of Zin.)
Moses said to the Lord, "May the Lord, the God who gives breath to all living things, appoint someone over this community to go out and come in before them, one who will lead them out and bring them in, so the Lord's people will not be like sheep without a shepherd."
So the Lord said to Moses, "Take Joshua son of Nun, a man in whom is the spirit of leadership, and lay your hand on him."...
Moses did as the Lord commanded him. He took Joshua and had him stand before Eleazar the priest and the whole assembly. Then he laid his hands on him and commissioned him, as the Lord instructed through Moses.
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 a deep missional identity to mark the local church
- for servant leadership, kingdom vision, and effective organization of the local church
- for pastors
Prayer — BC 30/31
God who calls us to your mission, I ask for leaders for your church. Not just any warm body, but Jesus-followers who model a servant leadership and help your people to live the gospel. May we see beyond the usual suspects to spot people who humbly carry your power and authority, serve the poor, stand against evil, and comfort the afflicted. Amen.
Blessing — 2 Timothy 1:7
"For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline."