Invitation — Psalm 139:14
"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well."
Quiet
Bible Song — Psalm 85:1-7, 10-13
You, Lord, showed favor to your land;
you restored the fortunes of Jacob.
You forgave the iniquity of your people
and covered all their sins.
You set aside all your wrath
and turned from your fierce anger.
Restore us again, God our Savior,
and put away your displeasure toward us.
Will you be angry with us forever?
Will you prolong your anger through all generations?
Will you not revive us again,
that your people may rejoice in you?
Show us your unfailing love, Lord,
and grant us your salvation...
Love and faithfulness meet together;
righteousness and peace kiss each other.
Faithfulness springs forth from the earth,
and righteousness looks down from heaven.
The Lord will indeed give what is good,
and our land will yield its harvest.
Righteousness goes before him
and prepares the way for his steps.
Bible Reading — 1 Samuel 12:1, 14-15
Samuel said to all Israel, "I have listened to everything you said to me and have set a king over you...
"If you fear the Lord and serve and obey him and do not rebel against his commands, and if both you and the king who reigns over you follow the Lord your God — good! But if you do not obey the Lord, and if you rebel against his commands, his hand will be against you, as it was against your ancestors."
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 great wonder at Christ's sacrifice
- for our capacity to suffer with others
- for those whose needs cannot be spoken
Prayer — HC 113
Forgiving God, I confess how blind I am to the subtle ways the desires of my heart are quickly crowned and begin to rule my life instead of you. Reclaim my heart and teach me to discern in my desires what is good and pleasing to you, and what runs counter to your good reign. Amen.
Blessing — Matthew 5:4
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted."