Tuesday 30 August 2016

31 August 2016

Collects

Prayers developed from the daily readings 

Wednesday 31 August 2016
Morning Prayer

Psalm 83: 1 – 8 (9 – 18)

This plea for protection from enemies comes at a time when Israel is under attack from all the neighbouring peoples. The enemies are enemies of God, making a covenant against God. Direct action from God is requested so that the enemies will come to know the reality and presence of God.

Zephaniah 1: 1 – 13

Zephaniah prophesies universal destruction, the cutting off from Judah every remnant of worship to other gods, the king's court, the city, 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


Nearly breaching
The Ovens River in flood (almost)
Harrietville Vic L 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 31 August 2016
Evening Prayer

Psalm 109: 1 – 5 (6 – 14) 15 – 19

The psalmist is falsely accused and cursed by others. He prays that those who have forgotten compassion, who curse instead of bless receive back what they have done.

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

Statues by the river holding firm
Harrietville Vic L Osburn
God of grace you hear our prayers and our heartfelt petitions and you give us eternal life. Motivate and strengthen us to freely offer ourselves to do your will so that we conquer evil, can be resilient in times of strife and though we might have fears, with your strength humbly help and support each other through the power of your Holy Spirit and Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

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