Ever-present God, remind us today that when we seek you, you answer. Sharpen our minds and strengthen our spirits to see what you have already made known; condition our minds and hearts to do your will, to become ever-more like You, and to live your call graciously, gratefully, and generously. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Opening Prayer (based on Psalm 8)
O God, our God, how majestic is your name in all the earth! Through the praise of children you have established a stronghold. When we consider your heavens, the work of your hands, the moon and the stars, the atoms and cosmos, which you have set in place, who are we that you are mindful of us, human beings that you care for us? But you made us, carefully, wonderfully, and have crowned us with the glory and honor of your image, your Spirit, your life. O Yahweh, our God, how majestic is your name in all the earth!
Opening Prayer or Call to Worship (Psalm 57)
We just changed the language for a corporate setting. “We” exalt you instead of “be exalted,” etc.
We will exalt You, O Lord, among the nations;
we will sing of You among the peoples.
For great is Your love, reaching to the heavens;
Your faithfulness reaches to the skies.
Be exalted, O God, above the heavens;
Let Your glory over the earth. Amen.
Another Prayer for Wisdom
To you, Loving God, we lift up our souls; in You
we trust. Guide us in your ways, make us yearn to
be like you, move us from worship to action and
change. Bless us this morning as we gather, bless
us when we part. Remind us that you are with us,
and that you call us to share your love. Illuminate
us so that we may bless others with our strengths
and seek your transforming power in our
weakness. Amen.
Opening Prayer for Wisdom
An opening prayer for wisdom. Could be used with a reading from Proverbs/Wisdom literature or on its own.
Lord, grant us wisdom as we seek your way. Remind us that you deal lovingly and graciously with us, and we are meant to do so with others. Help us grow in wisdom, works, and worship. Move us to share your love with each other and the world. Amen.
Worst Church Ever 