19 June 2015

Collects

Prayers developed from the daily readings 

Friday 19 June 2015 

Morning Prayer   

Psalms 110 and 111

The first psalm is David, who talks of his Lord being one who sits beside God, who defeats the enemies of God, whose rule extends beyond Zion and who, on coronation has priest privileges in the most ancient order of priests.

The second praises God for great deeds, honour, majesty, enduring righteousness and mercy. God has sent us redemption. Respecting God is the beginning of wisdom.

1 Samuel 17: 24 – 40

The Israelites are afraid of Goliath. David speaks with the fighters who talk about what reward the warrior who defeats Goliath will surely receive. David speaks boldly saying how can this Philistine stand against the army of the living God? One of his brothers is angry with him. He should be tending the sheep not being so presumptuous.

Saul hears what David says and calls for him. David says he will fight and no one needs to be afraid of Goliath. He says how he has fought off lions and bears from the flock. David says that God will protect him. Saul gives David permission then gives him armour. The armour is too big and heavy. David approaches Goliath in his shepherd’s robes with a sling and five smooth stone he collects from a wadi.

Acts 11: 1 – 18

The believers in Judea hear that Peter has baptised people from other nations. They criticise him. He tells then the whole story of the vision, the visit, Cornelius’s report of his vision and that there are believers present who witnessed these events. Peter tells them that the Holy Spirit fell on the Caesareans just as it had in the beginning. He recalls the words of Jesus “John baptised with water but you will baptise with the Holy Spirit.” They praised God saying, “God has given to the people of other nations the repentance that leads to life.”

Collect for Morning Prayer

Sue's Bridge Blackwood River
WA 2014 L Osburn

O God, you are the one who brings victory and freedom to all. No person or force can stand in your way. We thank you and praise you for giving us the repentance that leads to new life. Be with us today in all we do and if we boast about anything may it only be of you and your compassion and mercy through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord and the power of your Holy Spirit in our hearts. Amen.

Friday 19 June April 2015

Evening Prayer

Psalms 112 and 113

The first psalm proclaims that the righteous and faithful, who give generously and stand firm against fear and opposition, will receive good things and good reputations.

The second psalm praises God especially for responding to those who are humble and poor and bringing them to sit with princes. There is no other god like this.

Sirach 15: 9 – 20

Praise doesn’t ring true when it comes from someone who is sinning. Praise should be uttered in wisdom.

Don’t blame God for our failings. God gave us the power to make our own choices. We choose to obey the commandments and be faithful.

God sets before us fire or water, life or death. We stretch out our hands to choose.

God’s wisdom is great. God never commands anyone to be wicked and has given no one permission to sin.

2 Corinthians 12: 14 – 21

Paul talks about his next visit and how he will again pay for himself and show his love for the Corinthian believers again. He reiterates that neither he nor those he sent took any advantage. He expresses his concerns about the next visit and hopes there will not be quarrelling or jealousy, slander or conceit. When he comes he wants to come humbly. He is worried that he might have to mourn those who have sinned and not repented.

Collect for Evening Prayer

Path beside the Blackwood River
WA 2014 L Osburn

Holy and generous God you made us able and willing to give, to love and to make choices. Fill us with thanks and praise and rejoicing for all the gifts you have given so that we can clearly see the path ahead and make the choices that bring you glory and honour through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord and Saviour. Amen.

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