CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Glorious God, as we gather this morning in worship we take we breathe in your Spirit of Grace and Holiness and we are blessed, renewed, and revitalized not for ourselves, but for your purpose. We confess that we get caught -up in our complicated lives and the demands of everyday living. We confess that in some small way everyday, we manage to set aside our call to minister in your name. We forget to apologize for a mistake or misunderstanding. We don’t have time to welcome the stranger or greet our neighbor because there are bills to be paid, groceries to be bought, or a doctor to be seen, or a child to taxi to and fro. We barely have time to take care of ourselves, we say, never mind someone else. Remind us, dearest Lord, how you are always at work caring for us in the acts of kindness offered by friends, loved ones and even strangers. May we never forget that your purpose is our purpose and that we live to honor your name. Amen.
STEWARDSHIP INVITATION
In the opening scene of the play and the movie “The Bad Seed” little Rhoda Penmark peers up at her father and smiles sweetly as the two engage in a father-daughter ritual: “Daddy,” she croons, “what would you give me for a basket of kisses?” and he responds, “I’d give you a basket of hugs.” Then they embrace. God gives us unfathomable, unmerited Grace and the Peace that surpasses all understanding. What do you think? Do you have something to give to God?
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Gracious God, pour out your blessing upon the gifts we offer with cheerful hearts. May Let us always be mindful, of the ways in which you bless our lives, and especially Christ’s ultimate act of love. We are grateful for every breath we take and every blessing we have received. Hear our humble prayer offered in the name of the Christ. Amen.
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