June 15 Prayer

Psalm 31:7 “In mercy you have seen my troubles and you have cared for me. Even during this crisis in my soul I will be radiant with joy, filled with praise for your love and mercy.”

“What does the lord require of you, but to do justly, love mercy and walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6:8
Acts 2:43-47 “...and they were filled with gratitude and awe and held all things in common”
Matthew 5:38-42 “ You have heard that it was said,...but I say to you,”

Pause and hold these scripture images in your mind. What stands out to you?

What does mercy look like for you, toward you, and what does it look like to love mercy and show it?
As I think upon these things and read again Jesus' words to the disciples saying; “you have heard it said, but I say to you,” my heart suddenly halts and I pay attention to ask, what is it Lord, that you want to you say to me, right here, right now?
Love my enemies, love my neighbor as myself ?

Here we are in the midst of a crisis all around us.
Can we, the church who have received the greatest mercy of all, God's Son, to save us, care for us and fill us with his spirit, show mercy to others?

Ponder this for a moment.
Pause, breathe deeply and pray,

“Beautiful, gracious Lord,
How you care for us, everyone of us and hold us close to your heart.
We feel the warmth of being held during this time in our souls and allow you to fill us with joy.
Help us to walk humbly in the way that you have called us to live.
We are so grateful for the mercy you have shown us. Help us to see your generous spirit that you gave, so we may in turn be generous to others.

Open our ears to listen to others before we speak, step aside and let others step up, and not hold back in fear of what we do not understand.

May our hearts be mingled with yours to hold all things in common with each other.
We ask for the spirit of generosity to be released in our world so we may live out your justice, your lovingkindness and your mercy.
Lift up the oppressed and misunderstood to know your saving grace and love.
May we all be filled with your joy in our souls this day for your loving kindness never fails us.

Because of Jesus and our love for you we pray.”
Amen