Welcome to a Gathering of EChurch@Wartburg
A Prayer by Thomas Merton link
My Lord God, I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me.
I cannot know for certain where it will end, nor do I really know myself.
And the fact that I think I am following your will does not mean that I am actually doing so.
But I believe that the desire to please you does in fact please you.
And I hope I have that desire in all that I am doing. I hope thcat I will never do anything apart from that desire.
And I know that if I do this, You will lead me by the right road, though I may know nothing about it.
Therefore, I will trust you always, though I may seem to be lost in the shadow of death.
I will not fear, for you are ever with me, and you will never leave me to face my perils alone.
Amen
Seeing God in Creation link
The warmth
of the sun’s embrace
the gentle breeze swept in
by incoming tide
the rhythm of seasons
of new birth
death and recreation
All these speak so clearly
of your love
your power
and your beauty
All are expressions
of your creativity
and more importantly of yourself
As an artist might share his personality
within each brushstroke
so within the myriad colours
of a butterfly’s wing
you share the exuberance of your love
That we can glimpse you
within creation is a beautiful thought
but also tells us
that you desire to be seen
to be found and known
Open our eyes, Lord
as we walk through this world
feel the wind and sunshine
see the majesty of creation unfolding before our eyes
Help us
to see you
– John Birch
Prayer for Being a Light to the Nations link
Lord God, Ruler of all,
you have called us from among the peoples and nations of the world to be your own.
We praise you for the love that you have shown us by setting us apart for your service.
By your Spirit, help us to live as people who are in but not of the world,
that we may be light to the nations and bring you glory and honor,
in the name of Jesus Christ.
Amen
Scripture Reading: Matthew 28:19-20 NIV
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations,
baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.
And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Benediction
The Lord bless you, and keep you;
The Lord make His face shine on you,
And be gracious to you.
The Lord lift up His countenance on you,
And give you peace.’
Numbers 6:24-26
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