We pray. We study the Bible. We make friends. We tell our stories. We give ourselves away in generosity and service.

A PERSONAL PRAYER

God of grace,
There are days I recoil when I see how some people live and act, the things they say, and how narrow minded and judgmental they are. And then, I am reminded that my own thoughts about them are judgmental and self-righteous. God, forgive me. Forgive my judgmental spirit. Help me to see the very best in each person, and to recognize that each of them is anointed by you with the Holy Spirit. Give me a gracious spirit. Help me to remember their struggles, their difficulties, the battles they fight in their own souls. Remind me that all of us stand in exactly the same place in your eyes – children whom you have chosen to celebrate in spite of their failings, people for whom you gave the life of your son, those who are anointed by your Spirit. Help me to focus on the log in my own eye instead of the speck in my brother’s. Change my attitude, O God, and help me be an instrument of your love and grace.
Amen.

KEY VERSE FOR THE WEEK

As soon as David had finished speaking these words to Saul, Saul said “Is this your voice, my son David?” And Saul lifted up his voice and wept. 1 Samuel 24:16 Read the whole passages for this week’s sermon here: 1 Samuel 24:3b-7 and 1 Samuel 24:16-20

QUESTIONS FOR CONVERSATION

Is there someone in your life that has become your enemy? In light of our story today between Saul and David how might God strike your heart and disarm your anger for the purpose of reconciliation?

SOME THOUGHTS TO SHARE

This Sunday, July 10, the Saga of King David continues, as we discuss David’s ongoing struggles with King Saul, and his decision not to kill Saul when he had the chance. I wonder how you deal with people whom you disagree with. As the summer continues, I want to encourage you to stay connected to the church while you are traveling by watching any of our three traditional worship services on livestream here: https://stlukesmethodist.org/livestream. 

PRAYER CALENDARSunday, July 10

Lord, please hold my family as we go through our daily lives, so that through your guidance, we may know what we need to do. I pray that you will fill me with your love and guide me to be the person that you have created me to be. Amen. -Prayer by Cindy Stafford, Finance Assistant

Monday, July 11

Lord, we know that you are the author of all things so I ask that you move in our church and our city in powerfully healing ways. Redeem us so we may see your glory. Amen. -Prayer by Johnny Reeves, The Story Worship Leader

Tuesday, July 12

Heavenly Father, we pray for those who do not know what to do. May you be a guiding light for them. Amen.

Wednesday, July 13

Holy God, thank you for the incredible gift of St. Luke’s in my life. Thank you for the love, support, and generosity of your people in this place. Amen. -Prayer by Sally Matthews, Director of Finance and Administration

Thursday, July 14

Dear God, our world seems upside down. We pray for clarity and vision. Amen. -Prayer by Sid Davis, Director of Music and Fine Arts

Friday, July 15

Father, there is much fear and hardship in our world. Please bring peace and calm the storms. We need you. Amen.

Saturday, July 16

Lord, I pray that you would capture my heart, and in the process, I pray that you would set me free from that which holds my heart in bondage. Amen.