A PERSONAL PRAYER
God,
So many problems seem so intractable. So much of the world caught in poverty. So many families struggling with conflict. So many people devastated by wars. So many people living in ways that are destructive to self and others. So many people with broken relationships. So many people filled with hatred for others. So many people not knowing God’s love in Jesus. God, you call me, if I believe in you, to “do the works that you do,” (John 14:12), and to “bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” (Luke 4:18-19) How can I do these things? Surely only you and your Son can do those things.
But perhaps, we can do those things together – you, and I and the rest of the body of Christ, your church in the world. But even together we cannot do it without you. God, send your Holy Spirit into my life and fill your church. Draw us together into the movement of Jesus, that we might do even greater works than your son Jesus, as we collectively carry that movement of love into the world.
In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
SOME THOUGHTS TO SHARE
This week, we will continue our series on living a High Impact Life by considering what Jesus meant when he said that his disciples could do “even greater works” than he did, through the power of the Holy Spirit. Do you really believe that to be the case? Come and let’s talk about it together!
On Sunday, Oct. 20 at 5 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, we will have an all Church Conference to consider a plan for a capital campaign in the Fall of 2020. We will vote on a proposed capital campaign committee for projects to put meat on our “A City Transformed by the Love of Jesus” vision statement, retiring our debt on the Parking Garage, and consider a building committee for a community center at Gethsemane. See the draft proposal here. We will also hear a report from the Trustees and the Foundation, as well as a financial update. All are welcome.
The theme for our 2020 generosity campaign is “Giving with Gratitude.” Please be in prayer for discernment in making your gift to St. Luke’s for 2020. Commitment Sunday is next Sunday, October 20, and we will rededicate ourselves and our resources to the ministry of Christ on that day. Learn more or make a pledge here.
This Sunday afternoon, October 13, from 3-4 pm is the Blessing of the Animals on the Ellipse beside the Main South Entrance. All pets are welcome on leashes or in cages. You can send a friend this invitation to join you.
Did you miss last week’s message, “Starting Small” on October 6? Watch it here.
PRAYER CALENDAR
Sunday, October 13
Dear God, You know well the struggles I am experiencing and my desire to have these burdens lifted. Help me to look beyond my circumstances and feel the grace of Christ, the presence of the Holy Spirit, and your abounding love. Let my heart remember that no matter what happens today, You and I can handle it together. Amen.
Monday, October 14
Heavenly Father, please be with me as I struggle with a co-worker. Help me to love my neighbor as myself in the image of your blessed son. Amen.
Tuesday, October 15
Heavenly Father, we pray for the safety of our schools. Please keep our children safe and give them a peaceful place where they can focus on learning. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Wednesday, October 16
Gracious God, thank you for your loving presence in our lives. Today please be with those who are in need of your healing power. By your grace, guide their doctors and caregivers to ease their suffering and strengthen them to move forward on the path you have for them. Let them find relief, peace and rest in your arms. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.
Thursday, October 17
Dear Heavenly Father, we are so grateful for the gift of song and the ministry of all the people at St. Luke’s who share their musical talents to lead us to you. Old and young alike, we sing songs of worship and praise, express our faith, and sometimes sing songs of lament and sorrow. Thank you for those who help to sing the song that you have placed in our hearts. In Christ’s name, we pray, Amen.
Friday, October 18
Lord of all things, we praise you and thank you for the beauty of your creation. Thank you for the gift of Fall and cooler days. Thank you for nature and wildlife. Help us to be good stewards of your creation. Amen.
Saturday, October 19
Heavenly Father, we pray for those who are currently incarcerated. We pray that you would care for them and give them hope. We pray that you would draw them closer to you and redeem them. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
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