Father,
I seek Your wisdom.
The world shouts at me, demanding that I buy into its agendas. Noisy advertisements distract me and try to manipulate me with fear. It seems that everyone has something to sell. Now I am waiting in this quiet place, where You can help me to regain perspective - a place where Your wisdom and truth can reign and rule. Thank You for wisdom from above. Amen.
(From "Everyday Prayers for Everyday Cares")

1 The Lord is king; let the peoples tremble!
He sits enthroned upon the cherubim; let the earth quake!
2 The Lord is great in Zion;
he is exalted over all the peoples.
3 Let them praise your great and awesome name.
Holy is he!
4 Mighty King, lover of justice,
you have established equity;
you have executed justice
and righteousness in Jacob.
5 Extol the Lord our God;
worship at his footstool.
Holy is he!
Psalm 99 New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
1 Kings 3:5-14 – James 4:13-17,5:7-11 – John 5:1-15

Lord, You know what is best; let this be done or that be done as You please. Give what You will, as much as You will, when You will. Do with me as You know best, as will most please You, and will be for Your greater honor. Place me where You will and deal with me freely in all things. I am in Your hand; turn me about whichever way You will. Behold, I am Your servant, ready to obey in all things. Not for myself do I desire to live, but for You - would that I could do this worthily and perfectly!by Thomas A Kempis

1 The Lord is king, he is robed in majesty;
the Lord is robed, he is girded with strength.
He has established the world; it shall never be moved;
2 your throne is established from of old;
you are from everlasting.
3 The floods have lifted up, O Lord,
the floods have lifted up their voice;
the floods lift up their roaring.
4 More majestic than the thunders of mighty waters,
more majestic than the waves* of the sea,
majestic on high is the Lord!
5 Your decrees are very sure;
holiness befits your house,
O Lord, for evermore.
Psalm 93 New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
1 Kings 17:17-24 – 3 John 1-15 – John 4:46-54

Thomas Becket, Archbishop of Canterbury, Martyr

O Almighty God, by whose grace and power your holy martyr Thomas triumphed over suffering and was faithful even unto death: Grant us, who now remember him with thanksgiving, to be so faithful in our witness to you in this world, that we may receive with him the crown of life; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen

1Vindicate me, O Lord, for I have walked in my integrity,
and I have trusted in the Lord without wavering.
2Prove me, O Lord, and try me;
test my heart and mind.
3For your steadfast love is before my eyes,
and I walk in faithfulness to you.*
4I do not sit with the worthless,
nor do I consort with hypocrites;
5I hate the company of evildoers,
and will not sit with the wicked.
6I wash my hands in innocence,
and go around your altar, O Lord,
7singing aloud a song of thanksgiving,
and telling all your wondrous deeds
Psalm 26 New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
2 Samuel 23:13-17 – 2 John 1-13 – John 2:1-11

The Holy Innocents

We remember today, O God, the slaughter of the holy innocents Of Bethlehem by King Herod. Receive, we pray, into the arms of your mercy all innocent victims; and by your great might frustrate the designs of evil tyrants and establish your rule of justice, love, and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Book of Common Prayer 1979

1 If it had not been the Lord who was on our side
—let Israel now say—
2 if it had not been the Lord who was on our side,
when our enemies attacked us,
3 then they would have swallowed us up alive,
when their anger was kindled against us;
4 then the flood would have swept us away,
the torrent would have gone over us;
5 then over us would have gone
the raging waters.
8 Our help is in the name of the Lord
who made heaven and earth.
Psalm 124 New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading) Jeremiah 31:15-17 – Revelation 21:1-7 - Matthew 2:13-18

Christmas Eve

God of surprises, let us be your Christ-bearer, your servant, your deacon in this world grown too distracting and complicated. Make us ready for the gifts you give, the grace you impart, the opportunities you make available to help us grow in holiness. Grant that our eyes might be open to see, our ears to listen, our hearts to love, and our mouths to laugh with delight and joy when our awareness of your presence informs any moment of the day. Amen.
(Thomas Merton)

1 I will sing of your steadfast love, O Lord,* for ever;
with my mouth I will proclaim your faithfulness to all generations.
2 I declare that your steadfast love is established for ever;
your faithfulness is as firm as the heavens.
3 You said, ‘I have made a covenant with my chosen one,
I have sworn to my servant David:
4 “I will establish your descendants for ever,
and build your throne for all generations.” ’
5 Let the heavens praise your wonders, O Lord,
your faithfulness in the assembly of the holy ones.
6 For who in the skies can be compared to the Lord?
Who among the heavenly beings is like the Lord,
Psalm 89 New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Baruch 4:36-5:9 - Galatians 3:23-47 - Matthew 1:18-25

O Emmanuel
O Emmanuel, our King and Lawgiver, hope of the nations and their savior: come and save us, O Lord our God.
Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.

Relevant verse in Veni, Veni Emmanuel:

O come, o come, Emmanuel,
And ransom captive Israel,
That mourns in lonely exile here,
Until the Son of God appear.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
shall come to thee, O Israel.

1 Praise the Lord!
I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart,
in the company of the upright, in the congregation.
2 Great are the works of the Lord,
studied by all who delight in them.
3 Full of honor and majesty is his work,
and his righteousness endures for ever.
4 He has gained renown by his wonderful deeds;
the Lord is gracious and merciful.
9 He sent redemption to his people; he has commanded his covenant for ever.
Holy and awesome is his name.
10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom;
all those who practice it have a good understanding.
His praise endures forever.
Psalm 111 New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
2 Samuel 7:1-17 - Titus 2:11-3:8 - Luke 1:39-56

O Rex Gentium
O king of the nations, you alone can fulfill their desires: cornerstone, binding all together: come and save the creature you fashioned from the dust of the earth. Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.

Relevant verse in Veni, Veni Emmanuel:

O come, thou Key of David, come,
And open wide our heavenly home;
Make safe the way that leads on high,
And close the path to misery.

1 I love the Lord, because he has heard
my voice and my supplications.
2 Because he inclined his ear to me,
therefore I will call on him as long as I live.
3 The snares of death encompassed me;
the pangs of Sheol laid hold on me;
I suffered distress and anguish.
4 Then I called on the name of the Lord:
‘O Lord, I pray, save my life!’
5 Gracious is the Lord, and righteous;
our God is merciful.
6 The Lord protects the simple;
when I was brought low, he saved me.
Psalm 116 New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading) 1 Samuel 2:1-10 - Titus 2:1-10 - Luke 1:1-25

O Oriens – St Thomas, Apostle
O morning star, splendor of the light eternal and bright sun of righteousness: come and bring light to those who dwell in darkness and walk in the shadow of death. Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.

Relevant verse in Veni, Veni Emmanuel:

O come, Thou Dayspring, come and cheer,
Our spirits by your advent here;
Disperse the gloomy clouds of night,
And death's dark shadows put to flight.

1 When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion,*
we were like those who dream.
2 Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy;
then it was said among the nations, ‘The Lord has done great things for them.’
3 The Lord has done great things for us,
and we rejoiced.
4 Restore our fortunes, O Lord,
like the watercourses in the Negeb.
5 May those who sow in tears
reap with shouts of joy.
6 Those who go out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing,
shall come home with shouts of joy, carrying their sheaves.
Psalm 126 New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Zephaniah 3:14-20 - Titus 1:1-16 - Luke 1:1-25

O Adonai
O Adonai, and leader of the House of Israel,
who appeared to Moses in the fire of the burning bush
and gave him the law on Sinai:
Come and redeem us with an outstretched arm.

Relevant verse in Veni, Veni Emmanuel:
O come, O come, thou Lord of might,
Who to Thy tribes on Sinai's height
In ancient times didst give the law
In cloud and majesty, and awe.

1 I waited patiently for the Lord;
he inclined to me and heard my cry.
2 He drew me up from the desolate pit, out of the miry bog,
and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure.
3 He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear, and put their trust in the Lord.
4Happy are those who make the Lord their trust,
who do not turn to the proud, to those who go astray after false gods.
5 You have multiplied, O Lord my God,
your wondrous deeds and your thoughts towards us;
none can compare with you.
Were I to proclaim and tell of them,
they would be more than can be counted.
Psalm 40 New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Zechariah 7:8-8:8 - Revelation 5:6-14 - Matthew 25:14-30

O Sapientia
O Wisdom, coming forth from the mouth of the Most High,
reaching from one end to the other mightily,
and sweetly ordering all things:
Come and teach us the way of prudence

O Love of God, descend into my heart;
Enlighten the dark corners of this neglected dwelling, And scatter there Your cheerful beams. Dwell in the soul that longs to be Your temple; Water that barren soil overrun with weeds and briars And lost for lack of cultivating. Make it fruitful with Your dew.
Morning Prayer — St. Augustine

1The mighty one, God the Lord,
speaks and summons the earth from the rising of the sun to its setting.
2Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty,
God shines forth.
3Our God comes and does not keep silence,
before him is a devouring fire, and a mighty tempest all around him.
4He calls to the heavens above
and to the earth, that he may judge his people:
5‘Gather to me my faithful ones,
who made a covenant with me by sacrifice!’
6The heavens declare his righteousness,
for God himself is judge.
Psalm 50 New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Zechariah 4:1-14 - Revelation 4:9-5:5 - Matthew 25:1-13

God of light, be the hope of our suffering. Keep us from the darkness of sin and greed; keep us from the mindless quest for superiority and success, from the depravity of hatred and anger. Astonish us with your mercy and love so that we may never forget your faithful compassion. Let us use this time of waiting to recover our bearings and refrain from afflicting anyone with our own sins, no matter how insignificant they may seem to be. Amen.
(Thomas Merton)

57 The Lord is my portion;
I promise to keep your words.
58 I implore your favor with all my heart;
be gracious to me according to your promise.
59 When I think of your ways,
I turn my feet to your decrees;
60 I hurry and do not delay
to keep your commandments.
63 I am a companion of all who fear you,
of those who keep your precepts.
64 The earth, O Lord, is full of your steadfast love;
teach me your statutes.
Psalm 119 - New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Zechariah 3:1-10 - Revelation 4:1-8 - Matthew 24:45-51

Time is quite an enigma for many people - perhaps even most, since humans are typically devoid of much patience.
This is especially true as an adverb, as we wonder when something is going to occur (not when something happened). In Mark's gospel, as Jesus sits on the Mount of Olives opposite the incredible edifice of Herod's temple, of his disciples ask, "When will the massive stones comprising the temple be thrown down, not one to be left on top of another?" When, indeed.
Prophets (including Amos, Joel, and Micah) described When with utterances of impending gloom and darkness, yet they also called for restoration of Judah and Jerusalem featuring beauty and grace. This is When indeed, when hatred, mistrust, and inequality will be of the past.
Yet while we don't know when the When will occur, may we play an integral role to help justice roll down like waters and find shalom which God has intended for all of us to share with each other. While we live in the now and the not yet, may time never be our master; let us establish patience in waiting for the return of the One who exemplified humility and loved all without exception.
Yes, we are all broken, hopefully availing to us more motivation to accompany the hungry, love the unloved and embrace all we meet with the light and love of Christ. Yes, Jesus who came from a lowly family to testify to the word the absolute truth. Yes, the Lamb of God who is Truth and takes away the sin of the world. When indeed.
Bob Swanson, Intern , Ascension Lutheran Church, Columbus OH

God of love, help us to hear your knock on the door to our hearts so that we may not fail to be invited to your eternal banquet. Amplify in us the spirit of courage and love so that we may surrender our tendencies toward moral dysfunction and prideful self-indulgence. Give us the wisdom we need to face the problems of our world, our families, ourselves with radical honesty and appropriate sensitivity. Keep our heads from the sands so we may address the real improprieties we find around us. Let us work to heal at least one wound this Advent. Amen.
(Thomas Merton)

1My heart overflows with a goodly theme;
I address my verses to the king;
my tongue is like the pen of a ready scribe.
2You are the most handsome of men;
grace is poured upon your lips;
therefore God has blessed you for ever.
3Gird your sword on your thigh, O mighty one,
in your glory and majesty.
4In your majesty ride on victoriously
for the cause of truth and to defend the right;
let your right hand teach you dread deeds.
6Your throne, O God, endures for ever and ever.
Your royal sceptre is a sceptre of equity;
7 you love righteousness and hate wickedness.
Therefore God, your God, has anointed you
Psalm 45 - New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Zechariah 2:1-13 - Revelation 3:14-22 - Matthew 24:32-44

John of the Cross, Renewer of the Church

Almighty God, you taught John of the Cross to find you in trials and hardships, to adore you in the darkness, and to tell of your love in his poems: Grant that, when all is dark, we may wait patiently for the light, and in silence listen for your voice, and in all things trust your promises in Jesus Christ our Lord; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
L.W. Copwie and J.S. Gummer, The Christian Calendar

1 I lift up my eyes to the hills— from where will my help come?
2 My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.
3 He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber.
4 He who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
5 The Lord is your keeper; the Lord is your shade at your right hand.
6 The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night.
7 The Lord will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life.
8 The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in
from this time on and for evermore.
Psalm 121 - New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Zechariah 1:7-17 - Revelation 3:7-13 - Matthew 24:15-31

Come, dear Refreshment of those who languish;
Come, Star and Guide of those who sail amidst tempests.
You are the Haven of the tossed and shipwrecked.
Come now, Glory and Crown of the living,
As well as the Safeguard of the dying.
Come, Sacred Spirit;
Come, and make me fit to receive You.
– St. Augustine

18 Let this be recorded for a generation to come,
so that a people yet unborn may praise the Lord:
19 that he looked down from his holy height,
from heaven the Lord looked at the earth,
20 to hear the groans of the prisoners,
to set free those who were doomed to die;
21 so that the name of the Lord may be declared in Zion,
and his praise in Jerusalem,
22 when peoples gather together,
and kingdoms, to worship the Lord.
Psalm 102 - New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Haggai 1:1-15 - Revelation 2:18-29 - Matthew 23:13-26

Thomas Merton

May God the Father, and the eternal High Priest Jesus Christ, build us up in faith and truth and love, and grant to us our portion among the saints with all those who believe on our Lord Jesus Christ. We pray for all saints, for kings and rulers, for the enemies of the Cross of Christ; and for ourselves, we pray that our fruit may abound and we be made perfect in Christ Jesus our Lord. - Bishop Polycarp, 69-155 AD

3Trust in the Lord, and do good;
so you will live in the land, and enjoy security.
4Take delight in the Lord,
and he will give you the desires of your heart.
5Commit your way to the Lord;
trust in him, and he will act.
6He will make your vindication shine like the light,
and the justice of your cause like the noonday.
7Be still before the Lord, and wait patiently for him;
do not fret over those who prosper in their way,
over those who carry out evil devices.
Psalm 37 - New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Amos 9:1-10 - Revelation 1:17-2:7 - Matthew 23:13-26

Eternal Light, shine into our hearts,Eternal Goodness, deliver us from evil,Eternal Power, be our support,Eternal Wisdom, scatter the darkness of our ignorance,Eternal Pity, have mercy upon us;that with all our heart and mind and soul and strength we may seek thy face and be brought to your infinite mercy to thy holy presence; through Jesus Christ our Lord. -Alcuin of York 735-804 AD

33 Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes,
and I will observe it to the end.
34 Give me understanding, that I may keep your law
and observe it with my whole heart.
35 Lead me in the path of your commandments,
for I delight in it.
36 Turn my heart to your decrees,
and not to selfish gain.
37 Turn my eyes from looking at vanities;
give me life in your ways.
38 Confirm to your servant your promise,
which is for those who fear you.
39 Turn away the disgrace that I dread,
for your ordinances are good.
40 See, I have longed for your precepts;
in your righteousness give me life.
Psalm 119 - New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Amos 8:1-14 - Revelation 1:17-2:7 - Matthew 23:1-12

O Lord, awake us from the comfortable existence in which we too often may be safely cocooned, and challenge us to accept the call of our baptism. Afflict us with your grace so that we take seriously our efforts to aid the poor, to comfort the sad and lonely, to let our light shine as a beacon to all who may need our help. Allow us to serve also as a wake-up call to our brothers and sisters whose companionship in Christ we share. Amen.
(Thomas Merton)

1 To you, O Lord, I call; my rock, do not refuse to hear me,
for if you are silent to me, I shall be like those who go down to the Pit.
2 Hear the voice of my supplication, as I cry to you for help,
as I lift up my hands towards your most holy sanctuary.*
3 Do not drag me away with the wicked, with those who are workers of evil,
who speak peace with their neighbors, while mischief is in their hearts.
7The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts;
so I am helped, and my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.
8 The Lord is the strength of his people; he is the saving refuge of his anointed.
9O save your people, and bless your heritage; be their shepherd, and carry them for ever
Psalm 28 - New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Amos 7:10-17 - Revelation 1:9-16 - Matthew 22:34-46

Yesterday's Pain
Some of us walk into Advent
tethered to our unresolved yesterdays
the pain still stabbing
the hurt still throbbing.
It's not that we don't know better;
it's just that we can't stand up anymore by ourselves.
On the way to Bethlehem,
will you give us a hand?
Ann Weems, “Kneeling in Bethlehem”

Ambrose, Bishop of Milan

O God, you enabled your servant Ambrose to humble the pride of princes, to win the learned, and to teach the simple: Grant that we in our turn may walk humbly before you and resist iniquity in high places, glad to sing your praises before the whole assembly of your people; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns in you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen
(Horace Finn Tucker)

5For he will hide me in his shelter in the day of trouble;
he will conceal me under the cover of his tent;
he will set me high on a rock.
6Now my head is lifted up above my enemies all around me,
and I will offer in his tent sacrifices with shouts of joy;
I will sing and make melody to the Lord.
7Hear, O Lord, when I cry aloud,
be gracious to me and answer me!
8‘Come,’ my heart says, ‘seek his face!’
Your face, Lord, do I seek.
11Teach me your way, O Lord,
and lead me on a level path because of my enemies.
Psalm 27 - New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Amos 7:1-9 - Revelation 1:1-8 - Matt. 22:23-33

If we listen closely, we can hear the labor pained cry of the whole creation in the howl of the coyote at a full moon on a clear winter night or in the hum of the hummingbird's wing on a still summer day.
If we listen closely to the restlessness within ourselves, we will hear it there.
All these cries are in essence the same cry for that which only God can provide - that which goes by names like wholeness, healing, redemption and salvation.
Each Advent, we sit in the pregnant tension between what we groan for and the hope of its coming that we cannot yet see.
Take some time today to patiently sit within this tension. What does God want to birth anew in you this season?
Rev Mark Sloss, Christ Lutheran, Kokomo, IN.

John of Damascus

Confirm our minds, O Lord, in the mysteries of the true faith, Set forth with power by your servant John of Damscus; that we, with him, confessing Jesus to be true God and true Man, and singing the praises of the risen Lord, may, by the power of the resurrection, attain to eternal joy; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for evermore.

14The Lord is my strength and my might;
he has become my salvation.
15There are glad songs of victory in the tents of the righteous:
‘The right hand of the Lord does valiantly;
16 the right hand of the Lord is exalted;
the right hand of the Lord does valiantly.’
17I shall not die, but I shall live,
and recount the deeds of the Lord.
18The Lord has punished me severely,
but he did not give me over to death.
19Open to me the gates of righteousness,
that I may enter through them
and give thanks to the Lord.
Psalm 118 - New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Amos 5:1-17 - Jude 1-16 - Matthew 22:1-14

Francis Xavier, Missionary

Almighty and everlasting God, we thank you for your Servant Francis, whom you called to preach the Gospel to the peoples of Asia. Raise up, we pray, in this and every land heralds and evangelists of your kingdom, that your Church may proclaim the unsearchable riches of our Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.

8As we have heard, so have we seen
in the city of the Lord of hosts,
in the city of our God,
which God establishes for ever.
9We ponder your steadfast love, O God,
in the midst of your temple.
10Your name, O God, like your praise,
reaches to the ends of the earth.
Your right hand is filled with victory.
11 Let Mount Zion be glad,
let the towns of Judah rejoice
because of your judgments.
Psalm 48 - New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Amos 4:6-13 - 2 Peter 3:11-18 - Matthew 21:33-46

Lord Jesus, assuage our blindness and activate our hearts during this Advent, so that we may find your presence hidden in ourselves. May we unveil the mystery of Christ-with-us and work toward the true restoration of the whole world in your image. Let your light shine in our hearts so that we may always know the truth of your love. Amen.
(Thomas Merton)

1Happy are those whose way is blameless,
who walk in the law of the Lord.
2Happy are those who keep his decrees,
who seek him with their whole heart,
3who also do no wrong,
but walk in his ways.
4You have commanded your precepts
to be kept diligently.
5O that my ways may be steadfast
in keeping your statutes!
6Then I shall not be put to shame,
having my eyes fixed on all your commandments.
Psalm 119 - New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Amos 3:12-4:5 - 2 Peter 3:1-10 - Matthew 21:23-32

Nicholas Ferrar, Deacon

Grant, we pray you, Almighty God, that we, remembering your deacon Nicholas Ferrar and his household, and their detachment from the ambitions of this world, may be weaned from all that may hinder us from union with you; Through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.
Oxford Centenary Supplementary Missal

1Praise the Lord! Happy are those who fear the Lord, who greatly delight in his commandments. 2Their descendants will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed. 3Wealth and riches are in their houses, and their righteousness endures for ever. 4They rise in the darkness as a light for the upright; they are gracious, merciful, and righteous. 5It is well with those who deal generously and lend, who conduct their affairs with justice. 6For the righteous will never be moved; they will be remembered for ever.Psalm 112 - New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Amos 3:1-11 - 2 Peter 1:12-21 - Matthew 21:12-22

St Andrew, Apostle
He never moved to center stage, but played well an essential supporting role. He was, so someone observed, the great introducer. Three times St. Andrew took someone to Jesus, first and perhaps most significantly his own brother Peter, who Jesus appointed to head the earthly church. Andrew’s was a ministry of moving along the fringe of the crowd and making sure someone got the attention he needed when otherwise his needs and gifts might have been ignored.
The Rev. Jeffrey Wilson

Almighty God, who gave such grace to your apostle Andrew that he readily obeyed the call of your Son Jesus Christ, and brought his brother with him: Give unto us, who are called by your Word, grace to follow him without delay, and to bring those near to us into his gracious presence; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.

1The heavens are telling the glory of God;
and the firmament* proclaims his handiwork.
2Day to day pours forth speech,
and night to night declares knowledge.
3There is no speech, nor are there words;
their voice is not heard;
4yet their voice* goes out through all the earth,
and their words to the end of the world.
In the heavens* he has set a tent for the sun,
5which comes out like a bridegroom from his wedding canopy,
and like a strong man runs its course with joy.
6Its rising is from the end of the heavens,
and its circuit to the end of them;
and nothing is hidden from its heat.
Psalm 19 New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Amos 2:6-16 - 2 Peter 1:1-11 - Matthew 21:1-11

By the tender mercy of our God,
the dawn from on high will break upon us,
to give light to those who sit in darkness
and in the shadow of death,
to guide our feet into the way of peace.
--Luke 1:79-80

Thanksgiving Day

Heavenly Father, on Thanksgiving Day we bow our hearts to You and pray.
We give You thanks for all You've done especially for the gift of Jesus, Your Son.
For beauty in nature, Your glory we see for joy and health, friends and family,
For daily provision, Your mercy and care these are the blessings You graciously share.
So today we offer this response of praise with a promise to follow You all of our days.
--Mary Fairchild

1To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.
2O my God, in you I trust;
do not let me be put to shame;
do not let my enemies exult over me.
3Do not let those who wait for you be put to shame;
let them be ashamed who are wantonly treacherous.
4Make me to know your ways, O Lord;
teach me your paths.
5Lead me in your truth, and teach me,
for you are the God of my salvation;
for you I wait all day long.
6Be mindful of your mercy, O Lord, and of your steadfast love,
for they have been from of old.
Psalm 25 New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Zephaniah 3:1-13 – 1 Peter 2:11-25 - Matthew 19:23-30

Our season of waiting begins today. The daily lectionary readings for the season of Advent begin on the Thursday prior to the first Sunday in Advent.
Appropriately, the psalmist speaks about waiting for the Lord. The Lord is certainly worth the wait and we realize this is not an idle waiting. For in this Advent season, we know that we are waiting for God to break into the world in a new way. We are not idle in our waiting; instead we are expectant. We are still being taught, led, forgiven. We live as people who trust in the Lord and as people who expect that the promised mercy of the Lord will be upon us.
All the paths of the Lord are steadfast love and faithfulness. All the paths of the Lord will lead us toward the manger this Advent. If you are headed somewhere else - get off that path.
How will you know if you are on a path of the Lord? Examine yourself. Are you learning, feeling the pull of the Spirit, offering forgiveness to others? Are you putting your trust in the Lord? These are natural events while on a path God sets before you.
Devotion by Rev. Gary Sandberg

Issac Watts, Hymnwriter

O God, whom saints and angels delight to worship in heaven with hymns and spiritual songs of praise: Give us the wings of faith to behold the joyful glory of your saints, and to be so strengthened by the vigorous poetry of your servant Isaac Watts that we may faithfully walk in the path you have set before us and at last, through your grace, possess the land of pure delight opened to us by your Son Jesus Christ our Lord; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.Philip H. Pfatteicher

9Worship the Lord in holy splendor;
tremble before him, all the earth.
10Say among the nations, ‘The Lord is king!
The world is firmly established; it shall never be moved.
He will judge the peoples with equity.’
11Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice;
let the sea roar, and all that fills it;
12 let the field exult, and everything in it.
Then shall all the trees of the forest sing for joy
13 before the Lord; for he is coming,
for he is coming to judge the earth.
He will judge the world with righteousness,
and the peoples with his truth
Psalm 96 New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Obadiah 15-21– 1 Peter 2:1-10 - Matthew 19:23-30

O God, you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth, and sent your blessed Son to preach peace to those who are far off and to those who are near: Grant that people everywhere may seek after you and find you, bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit upon all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.From The Book of Common Prayer

1 Praise the Lord!
Praise the name of the Lord;
give praise, O servants of the Lord,
2 you that stand in the house of the Lord,
in the courts of the house of our God.
3 Praise the Lord, for the Lord is good;
sing to his name, for he is gracious.
4 For the Lord has chosen Jacob for himself,
Israel as his own possession.
5 For I know that the Lord is great;
our Lord is above all gods.
Psalm 135 New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Nahum 1:1-13 – 1 Peter 1:13-25 – Matthew 19:13-22

Clement, Bishop of Rome, ca. 100

O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the whole human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in your good time, all peoples may serve you in harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

3 Things that we have heard and known, that our ancestors have told us. 4 We will not hide them from their children; we will tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done.
5 He established a decree in Jacob, and appointed a law in Israel,
which he commanded our ancestors to teach to their children; 6 that the next generation might know them, the children yet unborn, and rise up and tell them to their children, 7 so that they should set their hope in God,
and not forget the works of God,
but keep his commandments;
Psalm 78 New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Joel 3:1-2, 9-17 – 1 Peter 1:1-12 – Matthew 19:1-12

Edmund of East Anglia, Martyr

O God of ineffable mercy, who gave grace and fortitude to blessed Edmund the king to triumph over the enemy of his people by nobly dying for your Name: Bestow on us your servants the shield of faith, with which we can withstand the assaults of our ancient enemy; through Jesus Christ our Redeemer, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.

1In your strength the king rejoices, O Lord,
and in your help how greatly he exults!
2You have given him his heart’s desire,
and have not withheld the request of his lips.
4He asked you for life; you gave it to him—
length of days for ever and ever.
5His glory is great through your help;
splendor and majesty you bestow on him.
6You bestow on him blessings for ever;
you make him glad with the joy of your presence.
7For the king trusts in the Lord,
and through the steadfast love of the Most High he shall not be moved.
Psalm 21 New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Nehemiah 2:1-20 – Revelation 6:12-7:4 – Matthew 13:24-30

Mechtild of Magdeburg, Mechtild of Hackeborn, Gertrude the Great
Renewers of the Church
On this day three German mystics and spiritual writers are commemorated together. In the late thirteenth century, the convent of Helfta in Saxony, Germany was a center of female mysticism. This convent produced a number of well-known mystics in the latter part of the century. This sort of mystical community of women was especially prevalent in Germany, and continued well into the fourteenth century.

Eternal God of fire and mercy, you have filled the hearts of your servants throughout the ages with visions of love and splendor: Bring your light, we pray, into the darkness of our hearts that we may know the joy of your presence and the power of your grace; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen

1God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
2Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change,
though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea;
3though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble with its tumult.
4There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy habitation of the Most High.
5God is in the midst of the city;* it shall not be moved;
God will help it when the morning dawns.
7The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our refuge.*
Psalm 46 New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Nehemiah 1:1-11 – Revelation 5:11-6:11 – Matthew 13:18-23

Hilda, Abbess of Whitby

O God of peace, by whose grace the abbess Hilda was endowed with gifts of justice, prudence, and strength to rule as a wise mother over the nuns and monks of her household, and to become a trusted and reconciling friend to leaders of the Church: Give us the grace to respect and love our fellow Christians with whom we disagree, that our common life may be enriched and your gracious will be done, through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.

1 I rejoiced with those who said to me,
"Let us go to the house of the LORD."
2 Our feet are standing
in your gates, O Jerusalem.
3 Jerusalem is built like a city
that is closely compacted together.
4 That is where the tribes go up, the tribes of the LORD,
to praise the name of the LORD according to the statute given to Israel.
5 There the thrones for judgment stand,
the thrones of the house of David.
6 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem:
"May those who love you be secure.
Psalm 122 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Ezra 6:1-22 – Revelation 5:1-10 – Matthew 13:10-17

O Almighty God, who by your Holy Spirit has made us one with your saints in heaven and on earth: Grant that in our earthly pilgrimage we may ever be supported by this fellowship of love and prayer, and may know ourselves to be surrounded by their witness to your power and mercy. We ask this for the sake of Jesus Christ, in whom all our intercessions are acceptable through the Spirit, and who lives and reigns for ever and ever. Amen.
(From "The Book of Common Prayer")

8 The LORD is gracious and compassionate,
slow to anger and rich in love.
9 The LORD is good to all;
he has compassion on all he has made.
10 All you have made will praise you, O LORD;
your saints will extol you.
11 They will tell of the glory of your kingdom
and speak of your might,
12 so that all men may know of your mighty acts
and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.
13 Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom,
and your dominion endures through all generations.
The LORD is faithful to all his promises and loving toward all he has made.
Psalm 145 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Zechariah 1: 7-17 – Revelation 1:4-20 – Matthew 12:43-50

Father,
You are my Source of faith.
Lord, I am trying to believe -- help my unbelief! Help me to take hold of the provision You made for me on the cross when You took on Yourself all my sicknesses and diseases. You carried them so that I could be healed and live a life of health and wholeness. I know what You have done for me, but I need to know it with my heart. Quicken my spirit, Lord, that I might receive Your gracious provision. Amen.
(From "Everyday Prayers for Everyday Cares")

5How great are your works, O Lord!
Your thoughts are very deep!
6The dullard cannot know,
the stupid cannot understand this:
7though the wicked sprout like grass
and all evildoers flourish,
they are doomed to destruction for ever,
8 but you, O Lord, are on high for ever.
9For your enemies, O Lord,
for your enemies shall perish;
all evildoers shall be scattered.
11My eyes have seen the downfall of my enemies;
my ears have heard the doom of my evil assailants.
Psalm 92 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Ezra 3: 1-13 – 1 Corinthians 16:10-24 – Matthew 12:22-32

Søren Aabye Kierkegaard, Theologian

“Father in Heaven! You hold all the good gifts in Your gentle hands. Your abundance is richer than can be grasped by human understanding. You are very willing to give, and Your goodness is beyond the understanding of a human heart, because you fulfill every prayer and give, what we pray for or what is far better than what we pray for.
“Give everyone her or his allotted share as it is well pleasing to You, but also give everyone the assurance that everything comes from You, so that joy will not tear us away from You in the forgetfulness of pleasure, so that sorrow will not separate You from us.”
Søren Aabye Kierkegaard

97 Oh, how I love your law!
I meditate on it all day long.
98 Your commands make me wiser than my enemies,
for they are ever with me.
99 I have more insight than all my teachers,
for I meditate on your statutes.
100 I have more understanding than the elders,
for I obey your precepts.
101 I have kept my feet from every evil path
so that I might obey your word.
102 I have not departed from your laws,
for you yourself have taught me.
103 How sweet are your words to my taste,
sweeter than honey to my mouth!
Psalm 119 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Ezra 1:1-11 – 1 Corinthians 16:1-9 – Matthew 12:15-21

Martin, Bishop of Tours

Lord God of hosts, who clothed your servant Martin the soldier with the spirit of sacrifice, and set him as a bishop in your Church to be a defender of the catholic faith: Give us grace to follow in his holy steps, that at the last we may be found clothed with righteousness in the dwellings of peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.
From Lesser Feasts and Fasts

15The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
and his ears are open to their cry.
16The face of the Lord is against evildoers,
to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth.
17When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears,
and rescues them from all their troubles.
18The Lord is near to the broken-hearted,
and saves the crushed in spirit.
19Many are the afflictions of the righteous,
but the Lord rescues them from them all..
22The Lord redeems the life of his servants;
none of those who take refuge in him will be condemned.
Psalm 34 New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Lamentations 2:8-15 – 1 Corinthians 15:51-58 – Matthew 12:1-14

– Leo the Great

O Lord our God, you strengthened your servant Leo of Rome through turbulent times: Let your perpetual mercy ever accompany your church; that while it is placed among the storms of this world it may be both refreshed with present gladness and behold the brightness of eternal bliss; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen
From the Leonine Sacramentary

11I will call to mind the deeds of the Lord;
I will remember your wonders of old.
12I will meditate on all your work,
and muse on your mighty deeds.
13Your way, O God, is holy.
What god is so great as our God?
14You are the God who works wonders;
you have displayed your might among the peoples.
15With your strong arm you redeemed your people,
the descendants of Jacob and Joseph.
Psalm 77 New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Lamentations 1:1-12 – 1 Corinthians 15:41-50 – Matthew 11:25-30

Martin Chemnitz

Breathe in me, O Holy Spirit, that my thoughts may all be holy. Act in me, O Holy Spirit, that my work, too, may be holy. Draw my heart, O Holy Spirit, that I love but what is holy. Strengthen me, O Holy Spirit, to defend all that is holy. Guard me, then, O Holy Spirit, that I always may be holy. Amen.
Saint Augustine of Hippo

5For God alone my soul waits in silence,
for my hope is from him.
6He alone is my rock and my salvation,
my fortress; I shall not be shaken.
7On God rests my deliverance and my honor;
my mighty rock, my refuge is in God.
8Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him;
God is a refuge for us.
11Once God has spoken; twice have I heard this:that power belongs to God,
12 and steadfast love belongs to you, O Lord.For you repay to all according to their work.
Psalm 62 New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Jeremiah 44:1-14 – 1 Corinthians 15:30-41 – Matthew 11:16-24

Prayer for Discernment
Make us of quick and tender conscience, O Lord; that understanding we may obey every word of Your Son, and discerning may follow every suggestion of Your indwelling Spirit. Speak, Lord, for Thy servant heareth.
- Christina G. Rossetti (1830-1895)

1 Praise the LORD, O my soul;
all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
2 Praise the LORD, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits-
3 who forgives all your sins
and heals all your diseases,
4 who redeems your life from the pit
and crowns you with love and compassion,
5 who satisfies your desires with good things
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
Psalm 103 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Jeremiah 38:14-28 – 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 – Matthew 11:1-6

– Elizabeth and Zechariah, Parents of St John the Baptist

Almighty God, Father of all mercies, we your unworthy servants give you humble thanks for all your goodness and loving-kindness to us and to all whom you have made. We bless you for our creation, preservation, and all the blessings of this life; but above all for your immeasurable love in the redemption of the world by our Lord Jesus Christ; for the means of grace, and for the hope of glory. And, we pray, give us such an awareness of your mercies, that with truly thankful hearts we may show forth your praise, not only with our lips, but in our lives, by giving up our selves to your service, and by walking before you in holiness and righteousness all our days; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory throughout all ages. Amen.
Book of Common Prayer

76 And you, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High;
for you will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for him,
77 to give his people the knowledge of salvation
through the forgiveness of their sins,
78 because of the tender mercy of our God,
by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven
79 to shine on those living in darkness
and in the shadow of death,
to guide our feet into the path of peace."
Luke 1 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Jeremiah 38:1-13 – 1 Corinthians 14:26-40 – Matthew 10:34-42

Almighty and everlasting God, you resist the proud but give grace to the humble: Grant that we be not cast down from our chief happiness by the swellings of pride, but rather that we ascend into heaven b y the steps of humility; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
The Mozarabic Sacramentary

1 Praise awaits you, O God, in Zion;
to you our vows will be fulfilled.
2 O you who hear prayer,
to you all men will come.
3 When we were overwhelmed by sins,
you forgave our transgressions.
4 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.
5 You answer us with awesome deeds of righteousness, O God our Savior,
the hope of all the ends of the earth and of the farthest seas,
6 who formed the mountains by your power,
having armed yourself with strength,
7 who stilled the roaring of the seas,
the roaring of their waves, and the turmoil of the nations.
Psalm 65 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Jeremiah 37:3-21 – 1 Corinthians 14:13- 25 – Matthew 10:24-33

– Martin de Porres, Renewer of Society

O God, whose Son became poor that we through his poverty might be rich: Deliver us from an inordinate love of this world, that we, inspired by the devotion of Martin de Porres, may serve you with singleness of heart and attain to the riches of the age to come; through Jesus Christ our Lord who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God for ever and ever. Amen

1 [a]I will praise you, O LORD, with all my heart;
I will tell of all your wonders.
2 I will be glad and rejoice in you;
I will sing praise to your name, O Most High.
3 My enemies turn back;
they stumble and perish before you.
4 For you have upheld my right and my cause;
you have sat on your throne, judging righteously.
7 The LORD reigns forever;
he has established his throne for judgment.
8 He will judge the world in righteousness;
he will govern the peoples with justice.
Psalm 9 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
Jeremiah 36:27-37:2 – 1 Corinthians 14:1-12 – Matthew 10:16-23

Commemoration of the Faithful Departed (All Souls)

Almighty God, with whom still live the spirits of those who die in the Lord, and with whom the souls of the faithful are in joy and felicity: We give you heartfelt thanks for the good examples of all your servants, who, having finished their course in faith, now find rest and refreshment. May we, with David and all who have died in the true faith of your holy Name, have perfect fulfillment and bliss in your eternal and everlasting glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Book of Common Prayer

12 How can I repay the LORD
for all his goodness to me?
13 I will lift up the cup of salvation
and call on the name of the LORD.
14 I will fulfill my vows to the LORD
in the presence of all his people.
15 Precious in the sight of the LORD
is the death of his saints.
16 O LORD, truly I am your servant;
I am your servant, the son of your maidservant;
you have freed me from my chains.
17 I will sacrifice a thank offering to you
and call on the name of the LORD.
Psalm 116 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading) Jeremiah 36:11-26 – 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 – Matthew 10:5-15

Heavenly Father, in whom we live and move and have our being: We humbly pray you so to guide and govern us by your Holy Spirit, that in all the cares and occupations of our life we may not forget you, but may remember that we are ever walking in your sight; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
The Gelasian Sacramentary

7 The law of the LORD is perfect,
reviving the soul.
The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy,
making wise the simple.
8 The precepts of the LORD are right,
giving joy to the heart.
The commands of the LORD are radiant,
giving light to the eyes.
9 The fear of the LORD is pure,
enduring forever.
The ordinances of the LORD are sure
and altogether righteous.
10 They are more precious than gold,
than much pure gold;
they are sweeter than honey,
than honey from the comb.
11 By them is your servant warned;
in keeping them there is great reward.
Psalm 19 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
2 Kings 23:36-24:17 – 1 Corinthians 12:12-26 – Matthew 9:27-34

Father,
You reward obedience and diligence.
You reward good work, and a job well done is its own reward. O Lord, help me to remember that. Help me to concern myself with building character in my life rather than glorying in the surface results. Teach me not to waste opportunities but to value those contributions You allow me to make to the Kingdom. And I promise to do all I can to use my time wisely and give my best to my work. Thank You for the blessing of work. Amen.
(From "Everyday Prayers for Everyday Cares")

1 How joyful are those who fear the Lord—
all who follow his ways!
2 You will enjoy the fruit of your labor.
How joyful and prosperous you will be!
3 Your wife will be like a fruitful grapevine,
flourishing within your home.
Your children will be like vigorous young olive trees
as they sit around your table.
4 That is the Lord’s blessing
for those who fear him.
5 May the Lord continually bless you from Zion.
May you see Jerusalem prosper as long as you live.
6 May you live to enjoy your grandchildren.
May Israel have peace!
Psalm 128 New Living Translation

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
2 Kings 23:4-25 – 1 Corinthians 12:1-11 – Matthew 9:18-26

– St Simon & St Jude, Apostles

O Almighty God, who have built your Church upon the foundation Of the Apostles and Prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the head corner-stone; Grant us so to be joined together in unity of spirit by their doctrine, that we may be made a holy temple acceptable to you; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
From The Lutheran Book Worship

89The Lord exists for ever;
your word is firmly fixed in heaven.
90Your faithfulness endures to all generations;
you have established the earth, and it stands fast.
91By your appointment they stand today,
for all things are your servants.
92If your law had not been my delight,
I would have perished in my misery.
93I will never forget your precepts,
for by them you have given me life.
94I am yours; save me,
for I have sought your precepts.
Psalm 119 New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
2 Kings 22:14- 23:3 – 1 Corinthians 11:23-34 – Matthew 9:9-17

Heavenly Father, whose blessed Son came not to be served but to serve: Bless all who, following in his steps, give themselves to the service of others; that with wisdom, patience, and courage, they may minister in his Name to the suffering, the friendless, and the needy; for the love of him who laid down his life for us, your Son our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
From The Book of Common Prayer

1 I lift up my eyes to you,
to you whose throne is in heaven.
2 As the eyes of slaves look to the hand of their master,
as the eyes of a maid look to the hand of her mistress,
so our eyes look to the LORD our God,
till he shows us his mercy.
3 Have mercy on us, O LORD, have mercy on us,
for we have endured much contempt.
4 We have endured much ridicule from the proud,
much contempt from the arrogant.
Psalm 123 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
2 Kings 22:1-13 – 1 Corinthians 11:2-22 – Matthew 9:1-8

- Alfred the Great

O Sovereign Lord, who brought your servant Alfred to a troubled Throne that he might establish peace in a ravaged land and revive learning and the arts among the people: Awake in us also a keen desire to increase our understanding while we are in this world, and an eager longing to reach that endless life where all will be made clear; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen
(From Lesser Feasts and Fasts)

1Praise the Lord!
Happy are those who fear the Lord,
who greatly delight in his commandments.
2Their descendants will be mighty in the land;
the generation of the upright will be blessed.
3Wealth and riches are in their houses,
and their righteousness endures for ever.
4They rise in the darkness as a light for the upright;
they are gracious, merciful, and righteous.
5It is well with those who deal generously and lend,
who conduct their affairs with justice.
6For the righteous will never be moved;
they will be remembered for ever.
Psalm 112 New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
2 Kings 21:1-18 – 1 Corinthians 10:14-11:1 – Matthew 8:28-34

St James of Jerusalem

Lord Jesus Christ, who set your brother James on the throne of Your church in Jerusalem: Grant that as he continually interceded for the sins of your people, and worked to reconcile in one body both Jew and Gentile; so your Church may give itself continually to prayer and to the reconciliation of all who are at variance and enmity, and may ever be an effectual witness for the salvation of all mankind. Grant this, O Son of Man, who are on the right hand of the Father, in the unity of the Spirit, now and ever. Amen
From The Book of Common Prayer

145With my whole heart I cry; answer me, O Lord.
I will keep your statutes.
146I cry to you; save me,
that I may observe your decrees.
147I rise before dawn and cry for help;
I put my hope in your words.
148My eyes are awake before each watch of the night,
that I may meditate on your promise.
149In your steadfast love hear my voice;
O Lord, in your justice preserve my life.
151Yet you are near, O Lord,
and all your commandments are true.
Psalm 119 New Revised Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
2 Kings 19:1-20 – 1 Corinthians 9:16-27 – Matthew 8:1-17

Almighty and everlasting God, whose will it is to restore all things in your well beloved Son, the King of kings and Lord of lords: Mercifully grant that the peoples of the earth, divided and enslaved by sin, may be freed and brought together under his most gracious rule; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
From The Book of Common Prayer

1 The LORD reigns, let the earth be glad;
let the distant shores rejoice.
2 Clouds and thick darkness surround him;
righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne.
3 Fire goes before him
and consumes his foes on every side.
4 His lightning lights up the world;
the earth sees and trembles.
5 The mountains melt like wax before the LORD,
before the Lord of all the earth.
6 The heavens proclaim his righteousness,
and all the peoples see his glory.
Psalm 97 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
2 Kings 18:28-37 – 1 Corinthians 9:1-15 – Matthew 7:22-29

Disturb us, Lord, when we are too pleased with ourselves; when our dreams have come true because we dreamed too little; when we have arrived safely because we sailed too close to the shore....
Disturb us, Lord, to dare more boldly, to venture on wider seas, where storms will show your mastery; where losing sight of the land, we shall find the stars."
by Sir Francis Drake,

1 Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked,
or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers.
2 But they delight in the law of the Lord,
meditating on it day and night.
3 They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season.
Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.
4 But not the wicked!
They are like worthless chaff, scattered by the wind.
5 They will be condemned at the time of judgment.
Sinners will have no place among the godly.
6 For the Lord watches over the path of the godly,
but the path of the wicked leads to destruction.
Psalm 1 New Living Translation

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
2 Kings 18:9-25 – 1 Corinthians 8:1-13 – Matthew 7:13-21

Grant, Lord God, to all who have been baptized into the death and resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ, that, as we have put away the old life of sin, so we may be renewed in the spirit of our minds, and live in righteousness and true holiness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.From The Book of Common Prayer

1 My heart is steadfast, O God;
I will sing and make music with all my soul.
2 Awake, harp and lyre!
I will awaken the dawn.
3 I will praise you, O LORD, among the nations;
I will sing of you among the peoples.
4 For great is your love, higher than the heavens;
your faithfulness reaches to the skies.
5 Be exalted, O God, above the heavens,
and let your glory be over all the earth.
6 Save us and help us with your right hand,
that those you love may be delivered.
Psalm 108 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
2 Chronicles 29:1-3; 30:1-27 – 1 Corinthians 7:32-40 – Matthew 7:1-12

Almighty and everlasting God, make us always to have a will that is devoted to you, and to serve your majesty with sincerity of heart ; through
your son Jesus Christ our Lord who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, now and forever. AmenThe Gelesian Sacramentary

1 O God, do not keep silent;
be not quiet, O God, be not still.
2 See how your enemies are astir,
how your foes rear their heads.
15 so pursue them with your tempest
and terrify them with your storm.
16 Cover their faces with shame
so that men will seek your name, O LORD.
17 May they ever be ashamed and dismayed;
may they perish in disgrace.
18 Let them know that you, whose name is the LORD—
that you alone are the Most High over all the earth.
Psalm 83 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
2 Kings 17:24-41 – 1 Corinthians 7:25-31 – Matthew 6:25-31

God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference. Living one day at a time; enjoying one moment at a time; accepting hardships as the pathway to peace; taking, as He did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it; trusting that He will make all things right if I surrender to His Will; that I may be reasonably happy in this life and supremely happy with Him forever in the next. Amen. - Reinhold Niebuhr (1892-1971)

1 O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you;
my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
2 I have seen you in the sanctuary
and beheld your power and your glory.
3 Because your love is better than life,
my lips will glorify you.
4 I will praise you as long as I live,
and in your name I will lift up my hands.
5 My soul will be satisfied as with the richest of foods;
with singing lips my mouth will praise you.
Psalm 63 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
2 Kings 9:17-37 – 1 Corinthians 7:1-9 – Matthew 6:7-15

Teresa of Avila- Renewer of the Church

Almighty God, who, when the hearts of your people have grown Cold, send your Spirit to relight the flame of your love in their hearts, and raise up faithful ministers to recall your people to their former devotion and service: Mercifully grant that we, following the teaching and example of Teresa of Avila and others, may be filled with your Holy Spirit, may be aflame with zeal for your glory and love for your goodness and hunger for your love, and that our feet may be set upon the path that leads to true holiness; the which we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and ever.

1 O LORD, you have searched me
and you know me.
2 You know when I sit and when I rise;
you perceive my thoughts from afar.
3 You discern my going out and my lying down;
you are familiar with all my ways.
4 Before a word is on my tongue
you know it completely, O LORD.
5 You hem me in—behind and before;
you have laid your hand upon me.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
too lofty for me to attain.
Psalm 139 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
2 Kings 9:1-16 – 1 Corinthians 6:12-20 – Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18

Father,
You comfort me in my suffering.
I realize that the mystery of suffering, Lord, cannot always be understood. It must be embraced by faith. I also know that You understand my suffering because You have suffered on my behalf. Father, I thank You for comfort in times of sorrow. Though I do not understand with my mind, my heart knows You are with me and You will work all things for good according to Your will. Amen.
(From "Everyday Prayers for Everyday Cares")

1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
3 he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, [a]
I will fear no evil, for you are with me;
your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
Psalm 23 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
2 Kings 6:1-23 – 1 Corinthians 5:9-6:11 – Matthew 5:38-48

O God, the author of peace and lover of concord, to know you is eternal life and to serve you is perfect freedom: Defend us, your humble servants, in all assaults of our enemies; that we, surely trusting in your defense, may not fear the power of any adversaries; through the might of Jesus Christ our Lord.
(The Gelasian Sacramentary)

1 Help, LORD, for the godly are no more;
the faithful have vanished from among men.
2 Everyone lies to his neighbor;
their flattering lips speak with deception.
3 May the LORD cut off all flattering lips
and every boastful tongue
4 that says, "We will triumph with our tongues;
we own our lips —who is our master?"
5 "Because of the oppression of the weak
and the groaning of the needy,
I will now arise," says the LORD.
"I will protect them from those who malign them."
6 And the words of the LORD are flawless,
like silver refined in a furnace of clay,
purified seven times.
Psalm 12 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
2 Kings 5:19-27 – 1 Corinthians 5:1-8 – Matthew 5:27-37

Almighty God, we pray you graciously to behold this your family, for whom our Lord Jesus Christ was willing to be betrayed, and given into the hands of sinners, and to suffer death upon the cross; who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen
(From "The Common Book of Prayer")

1 My soul finds rest in God alone;
my salvation comes from him.
2 He alone is my rock and my salvation;
he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.
3 How long will you assault a man?
Would all of you throw him down—
this leaning wall, this tottering fence?
4 They fully intend to topple him
from his lofty place;
they take delight in lies.
With their mouths they bless,
but in their hearts they curse.
5 Find rest, O my soul, in God alone;
my hope comes from him.
6 He alone is my rock and my salvation;
he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.
Psalm 62 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
2 Kings 5:1-19 – 1 Corinthians 4:8-21 – Matthew 5:21-26

Dear Lord, I am thankful that You were kind enough to provide Your Word. The orderliness of nature tells me of Your existence; I would be miserable knowing that You had created me but then abandoned Your creation. I sense Your presence when I read the Bible. I hear Your voice and learn that You take a personal interest in me. Your Word gives me a glimpse of You.
Lord, I pray for the will to read Your Word, a mind to understand its meaning, the ability to apply its principles to my life, and the determination to act upon what I learn. Amen.
(From "Prayers & Promises")

1 I rejoiced with those who said to me,
"Let us go to the house of the LORD."
2 Our feet are standing
in your gates, O Jerusalem.
3 Jerusalem is built like a city
that is closely compacted together.
4 That is where the tribes go up, the tribes of the LORD,
to praise the name of the LORD according to the statute given to Israel.
5 There the thrones for judgment stand,
the thrones of the house of David.
6 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem:
"May those who love you be secure.
Psalm 122 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
2 Kings 1:2-17 – 1 Corinthians 3:16-23 – Matthew 5:11-16

Father,
You give me abundant strength.
You know, Lord, that I want to do what is right. My heart cries out for it. And yet, I simply cannot accomplish it in my own strength. I find myself distracted by circumstances, swayed by the opinions of others, side-tracked by personal needs and concerns. I need Your strength. Open my heart to receive what I need from Your hand this day. Amen.
(From "Everyday Prayers for Everyday Cares")

1 I will sing of your love and justice;
to you, O LORD, I will sing praise.
2 I will be careful to lead a blameless life—when will you come to me?
I will walk in my house with blameless heart.
3 I will set before my eyes no vile thing.
The deeds of faithless men I hate;
they will not cling to me.
4 Men of perverse heart shall be far from me;
I will have nothing to do with evil.
5 Whoever slanders his neighbor in secret, him will I put to silence;
whoever has haughty eyes and a proud heart, him will I not endure.
6 My eyes will be on the faithful in the land, that they may dwell with me;
he whose walk is blameless will minister to me.
Psalm 101 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
1 Kings 22:29-45 – 1 Corinthians 2:14-3:15 – Matthew 5:1-10

Henry Melchior Muhlenberg

God, our heavenly Father, your servant Henry Melchior Muhlenberg displayed courage and perseverance in the face of opposition and slander, and brought order both in life and in worship to scattered and dispirited congregations: Give to the pastors of your church such strength and faithfulness that the devotion of your people may be enriched and that unity and cooperation may be advanced, to the glory of your name; through your Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen
(from Philip H. Pfatteicher)

1[a] Praise the LORD. [b]
I will extol the LORD with all my heart
in the council of the upright and in the assembly.
2 Great are the works of the LORD;
they are pondered by all who delight in them.
3 Glorious and majestic are his deeds,
and his righteousness endures forever.
4 He has caused his wonders to be remembered;
the LORD is gracious and compassionate.
5 He provides food for those who fear him;
he remembers his covenant forever.
Psalm 111 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
1 Kings 22:1-28 – 1 Corinthians 2:1-13 – Matthew 4:18-25

William Tyndale, Priest, Translator, Martyr

Almighty God, who planted in the heart of your servant William Tyndale a consuming passion to bring the Scriptures to the people in their native tongue, and endowed him with the gift of powerful and graceful expression and with strength to persevere against all obstacles: Reveal to us your saving Word, as we read and study the Scriptures, and hear them calling us to repentance and life; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

1 LORD, who may dwell in your sanctuary?
Who may live on your holy hill?
2 He whose walk is blameless
and who does what is righteous,
who speaks the truth from his heart
3 and has no slander on his tongue,
who does his neighbor no wrong
and casts no slur on his fellowman,
4 who despises a vile man
but honors those who fear the LORD,
who keeps his oath
even when it hurts,
5 who lends his money without usury
and does not accept a bribe against the innocent.
He who does these things
will never be shaken.
Psalm 15 New International Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
1 Kings 21:17-29 – 1 Corinthians 1:20-31 – Matthew 4:12-17