A PERSONAL PRAYER

God,

There are moments.

There are moments it feels like there is something inside me that takes me over. It is anger. Rage. Fury. The frustration just bubbles inside me. And then, small things trigger me and I lash out. I often lash out and say ugly things to the people I love the most. Sometimes it is at those who are defenseless. I don’t know what to do with this anger. I know anger is a natural emotion, but why do I use it and say and do hurtful things? I hear your son tell me I am not to stay angry or I am liable for the judgment. Help me, Lord.

There are other moments, God, when I am just absolutely overcome with delight. I look at my family – Dee, my children and their husbands, all the grandchildren – and I beam with joy and pride. I wonder why I don’t tell them often enough how wonderful they are.

So God, help me to be a better steward of these emotions you poured into my heart and soul. Let me use them well to shape those I love in your love.

I pray in the name of your son, in whom you took such delight. Amen.

SOME THOUGHTS TO SHARE
This week, we continue our sermon series, “Better Parents, Better People,” focusing on how our own approaches to life and to relationships help to form both our own children and the children and young people in our church family. This week we will focus on the impact our emotions have on others, in a sermon “Give Yourself a Time Out.” 

Let’s pray together as a church family and celebrate all God has done over the last 75 years and for our future. Join us for the Prayer Vigil Kick-off Service on Wednesday, February 19 at 7 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. You can still commit to pray for an hour either in the Chapel or at home in the 24 hours following the service. Contact Rev. Thomas Harper, or sign up here.

Check out the “Serve 75 Challenge” booklet for St. Luke’s 75th anniversary. It has 75 good ways to serve. Look for some ways to serve, choose some, and make a note of your service. At the end of the year, we will bring an offering of these acts of service as we celebrate our 75th birthday.

Our 2019 impact report is out for your review. What did God do through St. Luke’s in 2019, because of your investment of time, money, and prayers? These booklets are at the connection center and other places around the church, or you can download it here.

Did you miss the message, “The Thing About the Oxygen Mask” on February 9? Watch it here.

PRAYER CALENDAR
Sunday, February 16
Heavenly Father, we thank you that we can leave the chaos of the world and come into your Sanctuary and worship you. Help us to set aside our worldly idols and focus on you and what you desire for us. Bring us closer to you and teach us the true meaning of worship. Amen.

Monday, February 17
Dear Lord, how can I thank you enough? How can I thank you enough for this precious life you gave to me, for your faithfulness when I am not faithful, and for your promise of an eternity with you? Help me to be ever mindful of these and all your blessings so that I can be joyful in whatever the day brings, knowing that you are working in all things for our good. In Jesus’ most holy name we pray, Amen.-Prayer by Tiffany Tarrant

Tuesday, February 18
Lord, if I have denied the needs of the poor, forgive me. If I have seen a needy man without a garment and not helped him, forgive me. If I have put my trust in gold, forgive me. If I have rejoiced in my enemy’s misfortune, forgive me. Amen.

Wednesday, February 19
Thank you, O God, for your guidance and care for this great family of faith for the last seventy-five years. Thank you for the ways you have used your people to accomplish your purpose in the world. We pray that we might guard and grow the treasure they have given us. Amen.-Prayer by Dr. Tom Pace

Thursday, February 20
Dear Lord, With a new year, always comes new changes, new challenges, and new opportunities. I pray that our students will look to you, as they go through these times & always remember that they receive their strength from you. Please fill their hearts and their minds with your presence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Friday, February 21
Dear God, Thank you for our many blessings. In difficult times, help us remember to be thankful. Amen.

Saturday, February 22
Lord, please comfort those families who are going through difficult times. We pray that differences may be resolved for the good of all, especially the children. Amen.

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