23 July 2014

Collects

Prayers developed from the daily readings 

Wednesday 23 July 2014 

Morning Prayer

Psalms 54 and 55: 1 – 12

The first psalm is a plea to be saved from enemies, a statement of faith and a promise to give a free will offering to God once the psalmist is triumphant.

The second psalm portion is another plea for aid against enemies. The psalmist fears for his life and wants to run away. There is trouble around the city walls and the psalmist asks that the enemies plans be confused.

Amos 7: 10 – 8: 3

Amaziah the priest of Bethel reports what Amos has said to King Jeroboam. Amaziah tells Amos to flee and never prophecy in Israel. Amos says that he is not a prophet but a herdsman and dresser of sycamore trees and the Lord took him and told him what to say. He then reports what God says about the dreadful future that awaits Amaziah, his family and Israel.

John 7: 14 – 31

In the middle of the festival of the Booths Jesus goes to the temple to teach. People are amazed at his knowledge and debate about where his knowledge comes from. Jesus’s knowledge, message and purpose are all from and for God.

Jesus challenges then on their hypocrisy of which parts of the law they allow to be kept or not kept on the Sabbath (circumcision or healing).

The people debate whether Jesus is the Messiah or not. They try to arrest him but this is not the right time and he avoids capture.

Collect for Morning Prayer

Kangaroo at dawn
Armadale WA 2014 L Osburn

God of salvation, to you be praise and honour and glory. You protect us in times of chaos and strife. You have given your word to prophets to warn us, and your Son to teach us and to redeem us. Help us understand how much you cherish us so that we acknowledging your love and have the courage to step into your world and bring your love to others through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord and your Holy Spirit in our hearts. Amen.

Wednesday 23 July 2014

Evening Prayer

Psalm 55: 13 – 15 (16 – 17) 18 – 28

The psalmist’s enemy is a close friend. It is harder to bear treachery from someone close. The friend has tricked another and done great harm. God will hear and respond. Lay our burdens on God. God’s is the punishment not ours. Trust God.

Ezekiel 34: 1 – 16

Ezekiel prophesies against the shepherds of Israel. The shepherds are not properly caring for the sheep, seeking them out when lost or guiding them but feeding off them and clothing themselves with the wool. Thus the sheep are scattered and not following.

God’s message through Ezekiel is that God will be the shepherd, bring the sheep safely home to lush pastures no matter where in the world they are. He will given them rest and strengthen the weak.

Romans 2: 12 – 24

Paul talks of the basis for God’s judgement. For the Jews, they have the Mosaic Law and will be judged according to that. Are they guides to the blind, lights in the darkness, correctors of the foolish and teachers of children? And for those of other nations the consciences will guide them and be their defence before God.

Paul also says that those who have the Law and break it are the ones who are blaspheming, for those of other nations see and discount the value of God.

Collect for Evening Prayer

Contented sheep
Armadale WA 2014 L Osburn

Great shepherd, you care for each one of us as a good shepherd and you want us to care for, support, teach and guide others. Strengthen us we pray to look to you and not our own comfort and to be diligent in these tasks so that we may bring people safely to your loving care and foster awe and wonder and praise to you through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, and the power of your Holy Spirit. Amen.