Over 150 years ago, Charles Dickens wrote a novel called Hard Times. Our times are also hard times, as millions of people all over the country and billions all over the world struggle with many seemingly intractable problems.. We look for solace and comfort in the midst of growing fear and anxiety. Where are we to find any security? It is with that question in mind that we come to church every Sunday, and especially on this Sunday. Looking for an answer, let us, with confidence, worship God.
Pastoral Prayer
We praise Thee, O God, for the multitude of blessings Thou hast given to each of us. It is through no choice or action of our own that most of us were born in this nation, or that we have derived benefits from it all our lives. But there are some among us who currently do not feel especially fortunate. The economic downturn has shaken their faith in their future, and they wonder what shall happen to them. We ask Thee to enter into the lives of anxiety-ridden people to convince them of Thy presence and Thy power. Help them to learn more fully to trust in Thee rather than in actions they might or might not take on their own behalf. Calm their spirits in the midst of their turmoil, and give them a new equilibrium for facing whatever other tests may soon come their way.
We pray that Thou wouldst forgive us for relying too much on our own abilities, and too little on Thy abiding grace. When jitters over the future overwhelm us, renew our faith in the goodness of Thy will for us and for the whole world. Teach us how we can better trust both in Thee and in our own resources, but particularly to place our ultimate trust in Thee.
On this day we pray especially for Jill Pellerin. Thou hast given her remarkable strength and perseverance in the face of an excruciating battle with cancer. Continue to be her mainstay as she undergoes new treatments, which of necessity, have been little tested . We pray for her healing and wholeness, and for such an infusion of faith that no matter what lies ahead, she may know that Thou art with her every step of the way. Loving God, our needs are great, but Thy grace is greater still. Shower it upon all who cry out to Thee in extraordinary circumstances, hoping for extraordinary results. All these things we pray in Jesus’ name. Now, as he long ago taught his disciples, we pray together, saying, Our Father….