Make a Difference!

A PERSONAL PRAYER

God of love,

Use me as you see fit. I want to be “useful to the master,” (2 Timothy 2:21), to make a difference, to be your instrument that moves the world a little bit closer to the way it was created to be, the way it one day will be once again. I know that you have put your light in my heart, and no one lights a lamp and puts it under a bushel, but on a lampstand where it lights up the house.

And I pray for my church, that St. Luke’s would be that city on a hill that cannot be hidden, that our church would be a part of your work to bring the love of Jesus to everyone in both word and deed.

But God, when I look deeper inside myself, I see things I don’t like to see. I realize that there are times when I want to be working for you, but I am really seeking my own glory. I want to feel valuable, significant, maybe even important. Forgive me, God, and help me to realize that my value is not established by what I can accomplish, but rather by my identity as your child, adopted into your family. If I need to be set aside in order to learn that lesson, then set me aside. Otherwise, put me to work, and let others see those good works and give glory to you.

In the name of Jesus, the one whom I serve, I pray, Amen.

SOME THOUGHTS TO SHARE

This Sunday, September 30 is Impact Sunday. In our worship services, we will consider a few of the ways God is changing lives and our city through the ministries and people of St. Luke’s. As we begin our sermon series “Show Me: The Letter of James,” my message looks at the relationship between faith and works, heart and hand, belief and action. Don’t miss this Sunday’s worship!

Scripture + Shared is here! I have been studying the letters of James and 1 and 2 Peter this summer and am anxious to teach it to you. I will begin the series this Sunday covering the letter of James. There are daily Bible readings, commentary and explanation, and reflection and discussion questions on the Scripture + Shared app and St. Luke’s website. The video curriculum (also on the app and website) includes conversational lessons in which I visit with other St. Luke’s pastors and staff about the letters. Find a group and learn how to download the app at stlukesmethodist.org/bible.

A few months ago, Jim Roman joined our staff as Associate Organist. He and his wife Grace are both marvelously talented musicians. This Sunday, September 30, at 5:00 pm in the Sanctuary, Jim and Grace will present a recital entitled “And Music Shall Untune the Sky.” If you come, I know you will be blessed.

PRAYER CALENDAR

Sunday, September 30

Lord of the Sabbath, thank you for the gift of this day to worship you, to rest, and to renew our spirit. Help us to make the Sabbath our priority so that we may be ready when you call us to do your great work. Amen.

Monday, October 1

Lord, please be with those who have battled with illness for many months. Provide your healing touch to those who may need it. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Tuesday, October 2

Lord, thank you for your many blessings. Please open up a path forward that we may live in your will. Amen.

Wednesday, October 3

Father, please be with those who are looking for a purpose in their work. Please open doors to help them find meaningful work to support their loved ones. Amen.

Thursday, October 4

Father God, we pray for those who are still recovering from Hurricane Harvey. Give us the resources to continue to support where help is needed. Please also be with those who were affected by Hurricane Florence, and provide for them in amazing ways. Amen.

Friday, October 5

Lord Jesus, provide for all those who need strength in the area of addiction. Please guide them, and grant them strength to stay sober. Amen.

Saturday, October 6

Lord, we pray for our parents of young children as they raise them up in the Lord. Give them the love and patience that they need during hard times. Amen.