Dr. Tom Pace, Dr. Tom Pace lll, Senior Pastor St. Lukes UMC, Sr Pastor St Lukes

A PERSONAL PRAYER

God,

I am not all that good at “obedience.” I prefer “alignment” or “collaboration” or “negotiation,” or some other word that allows me to feel like I am in charge. But sometimes, it helps me to know what you expect of me as your follower. 

God, in your love and grace, you saved the people of Israel from bondage in Egypt, you set them apart as your covenant people, special to you, not like any other people. They were set apart to be a blessing to the world. And the way they would demonstrate that special status was to live obedient to your law, built upon your ten commandments.

God, in your love and grace, you saved me from sin, and set me apart as your covenant child. And you asked me to live, in response to your love, by an even higher standard than those ten. You asked me to be transformed on the inside so that those ten would not be a matter of simple obedience, but rather a natural outgrowth of a changed character.

Still, sometimes, it isn’t so easy, and I have to choose simple obedience. Forgive me, God. Help me, by your Holy Spirit, to be faithful.

In the name of Christ, I pray. 

Amen.

SOME THOUGHTS TO SHARE
Go online here and see information about our upcoming five year plan, changes to our governance structure, and proposed renovations to the Fellowship Hall. A church conference is planned to vote on these on June 25 at 6:00 p.m., and we would love to have you present.

This week, we begin a new sermon series entitled “The Ten Words.” We will be looking throughout the summer at the Ten Commandments and what they mean for Christians who live by grace instead of law. Come and join us each week, and if you are gone traveling, watch us on LiveStream or listen to the podcast to keep up.

PRAYER CALENDAR
Sunday, June 11

God, we pray for our healthcare workers who look after and care for our loved ones when we cannot be available. Bless their servitude as they are a blessing to our families. Amen.

Monday, June 12

Lord, I lift up those who feel lost or do not know what their next step in life may be. I pray that rather than falling into one’s pride or fears of the future, they turn their eyes and hearts upward and trust in your plan for their lives. Amen.

Tuesday, June 13

Heavenly Father, please look after those who are graduating this semester. Continue to guide these graduates as they begin new chapters in their lives. Amen.

Wednesday, June 14

Dear Lord, thank you for keeping us safe, blessing us with good health and all the things we take for granted. Lord, please bless us in building good relationships with you, with Jesus, with friends, the church, and its congregation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Thursday, June 15

Lord, give me strength to trust in you for all things. I pray your blessing on me and my family this day. Thanks for every provision. Amen.

Friday, June 16

Lord, we ask that you be with our family members in the armed services. Please bless them and keep them safe in these times of turmoil. Amen.

Saturday, June 17

Lord God we ask prayers for patience, discernment, and wisdom when discussing sensitive plans and action for the future. Amen.

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