Tuesday 22 September 2015

23 September 2015

Collects

Prayers developed from the daily readings 


Wednesday 23 September 2015 
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.

1 Kings 14: 1 – 18

Jeroboam’s son is sick. He instructs his wife to go in disguise to Ahijah the prophet who said that Jeroboam would be king in his part of Israel. She goes but God revels to Ahijah who is coming and the message.

As a result of Jeroboam’s great wickedness in setting up altars, casting images and making the people worship other gods the child will die and be buried as soon as the mother returns to the city. Then every member of Jeroboam’s family will die and not have a grave. The Lord will raise up another king to rule all Israel. The house of Jeroboam will be cut off. That process begins now.

Matthew 7: 6 – 23


Jesus tells us to value the things that are holy and not let them be devalued. We are told to ask for and seek the things we need from God since we would be generous to our children and not trick them if they ask for something. God is more loving and generous.

We are to be active in doing for others what you would like them to do for you. This is a call to generosity. And to restrict yourselves, don’t go for the easy way. Instead accept the challenges of faith. Jesus also warns of false prophets whose character we can see by the outcomes of their work.

We might have gifts of prophecy or casting out demons and say we are doing it in God’s name but unless are doing God’s will we are not God’s people.

Collect for Morning Prayer


After the sleet shower
Harrietville Vic L Osburn
Holy and almighty God you make it clear that we are to protect and value the holy, seek what we need from you, be generous and responsive to the needs of others, to take up the challenge of the disciplined life of faith and to do all things in accordance with your will. Give us the power, resources, strength and courage to do your will today so that or lives value and celebrate all that is holy through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, and the power of your Holy Spirit. Amen.





Wednesday 23 September 2015
Evening Prayer

Psalms 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.

Job 22: 1 – 22

Eliphaz, Job’s friend argues that God does not need people and does not need them to be righteous. He asks, is it for Job’s piety that God has entered into judgement for him?*

Eliphaz goes on to accuse Job of specific wrong doings. He pleads with Job again to repent, to agree with God and be at peace.

*We know from he beginning that it is and that God will benefit from Job’s proof of righteousness.

Ephesians 5: 6 – 20

Paul warns to stay away from deceivers and live instead as children of light – seeking what is pleasing to God. Shine a light on darkness and expose it: awake, rise and let Christ shine in you!

Live your life wisely making the most of your time. Sing hymns and spiritual songs. Make melody, lift up your hearts at all times giving thanks to God in the name of Jesus.


Collect for Evening Prayer

Spring magnolias
Harrietville Vic L Osburn
Amazing and wonderful God, who are we that you care for us and concern yourself with our thoughts, words and deeds? Indeed you are awesome in your love and grace and faithfulness. Help us this night to lift our hearts and voices in praise to you, always and everywhere through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, and the power of your Holy Spirit in our hearts. Amen.





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