20 February 2016

Collects

Prayers developed from the daily readings 

Saturday 20 February 2016

Morning Prayer

Psalms 114 and 115

First, the psalmist recalls the exodus and crossing of the sea and the Jordan: that the natural world moved and changed to suit God’s purpose. The second psalm starts praising God for faithful and constant expression of love. The psalmist ridicules the idol-makers who like their idols may have the physical senses (eyes, ears, noses…) but make no use of them. God is contrasted as a sensing and active presence worthy to be trusted. The psalmist blesses the hearer of the psalm.

Jeremiah 28: 5 – 17

Jeremiah goes to see Hananiah. He concedes that Hananiah’s prophecy could be correct and if it is, indeed Hananiah is a great prophet. Hananiah breaks the yoke on Jeremiah’s back. But the Lord comes to Jeremiah and reveals that breaking the wooden yoke will only bring a yoke of iron. Jeremiah returns to Hananiah and tells him that his prophecy is false. He also predicts Hananiah will be punished. Hananiah dies within the year.

Luke 12: 35 – 48

Jesus tells the parable of the master coming home at an unexpected hour and finding the servants alert and ready will bless them and serve them. A disciple asks whether this lesson is for the people or for the disciples. Jesus replies that those who know more are expected to be more diligent. His message is for all of us.

Collect for Morning Prayer

Brining in the catch
Fremantle Harbour WA  L Osburn

 Almighty God your power is invisible, immense and through you we are blessed and strengthened. Move us like you did the seas and the mountains to acknowledge your greatness and accept your light yoke knowing that you will strengthen and support us in our faithful, and prudent service according to our abilities. May we bless and you at every stage so that we continue to receive your abundant blessings through Jesus Christ Your Son our Lord. Amen.

Saturday 20 February 2016

Evening Prayer

Psalms 116 and 117

The first psalm gives thanks to God for healing. Even when he is profoundly depressed the psalmist trusts in God. The second psalm is a global call to praise God.

Genesis 42: 18 – 38

Joseph demands that one brother stay in gaol and the others return to Canaan and bring the remaining brother to Egypt then, he will believe they are not spies. The brothers talk among themselves not knowing that Joseph understands. They admit what they did to Joseph. Joseph instructs that the receive grain for the journey and that their money is returned.

On arrival home Jacob is angry and distressed because the brothers have again returned one brother short, with all their money. And now they want to take the youngest to Egypt. Jacob basically says, “Over my dead body will you take Benjamin”.

Hebrews 6: 19 – 7: 10

We hear the ancient story of Melchizedek, a priest whose birth and death were not recorded and who met Abraham and blessed him. Abraham tithed to him – so he is greater than Abraham. The writer now compares this eternal high priest with the Levitical priests.

Collect for Evening Prayer

Clear path
Albany WA   L Osburn

Eternal God, your ways and plans for our lives are often unclear to us. Help us to recall your great and generous gifts to us and to praise you. Remembering your great mercies and goodness will refresh us to do your will, now and every day, through Jesus Christ. Amen.

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