3 September 2014

Collects

Prayers developed from the daily readings 

Wednesday 3 September 2014 

Morning Prayer

Psalm 9

This psalm is a song of thanks and praise for the demise of past enemies and the eternal presence of God. The Lord is the security for oppressed people and that means individuals too. The psalmist moves to a prayer for individual help. The psalm ends asking God to “let the nations know that they are only human” (v.20).

Zephaniah 1: 1 – 13

Zephaniah prophesies universal destruction, the cutting off from Judah every remnant of worship to other gods, the kings court, the city and all traders and merchants especially those who are arrogant and think the Lord is powerless.

Acts 24: 10 – 27

Paul makes his case before the governor. He says he came to worship, is faithful to the law and the prophets and keeps a good conscience. He brought alms to his nation, was in the temple completing the rite of purification when Jews from Asia made accusations. Paul states that those people should be at the hearing. Paul says he attended the council and the only thing he said out of place was about the resurrection of the dead. He asks is that why he is on trial?

The governor adjourns the case, keeps Paul confined but allows his friends to come and bring things he needs. The tribune and his Jewish wife Drusilla visit; Paul speaks of faith in Christ–Jesus, justice and self-control. Paul talks with the governor regularly. A new governor is appointed and Felix leaves Paul in custody.

Collect for Morning Prayer

Morning in Los Angeles California
2013 Julia Osburn

Oh God of power, might and quiet agency, you are able to bring great destruction and also to protect us and enable us to quietly do your will and proclaim your word. We thank you for your scriptures and for your faithful people whose lives are witnesses to you. Keep us humble and calm in your service today doing your will wherever we find ourselves so that we too are part of the great story of your love for the world through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Wednesday 3 September 2014

Evening Prayer

Psalm 10

The psalm begins describing how arrogant wicked people are: how they think God does not see them and that they can get away with anything. But God does see. God will hear the meek and give them strength and provide justice for the orphan and oppressed so that people on earth will “strike terror no more” (v.18).

Judith 4

Holofernes the Assyrian is invading and the people are terrified. They fortify their towns and store food. They have only recently returned from exile and restored the temple in Jerusalem. The high priest Joakim sends instructions for defence of the roads. Everyone prepares in humility, making sacrifices and praying.

1 John 2: 12 – 17

The writer addresses the whole community, the elders and the youth and acknowledges their belief and faithfulness. They are encouraged to steer away from material concerns, desires and riches. For all those things pass away whereas the gift of God to the faithful people is eternal life.

Collect for Evening Prayer

Sunset Streaky Bay SA
2014 L Osburn

God of the meek, friend of the poor you hear our prayers. Keep us faithful and focused on you even when the threats of this world are great so that we, loving you, spread your love and care and are part of building a world free from terror through Jesus Christ our Lord and your Holy Spirit in our hearts. Amen