I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord.” Psalm 122:1
Heavenly Father, thank you for the privilege of corporate worship—the joy of gathering with sisters and brothers to boast in Christ, worship by the Spirit, and receive your Word. Forgive us for taking this honor for granted, and for coming less than prepared.
Thank for you those who will lead us in your worship this October Sunday. We pray for the singers, musicians, and liturgists. Father, may they serve us as lead-worshipers first, and worship leaders second. Fill their hearts with a fresh sighting of the beauty of Jesus and give them a keen awareness of the riches of the gospel. Thank you for their preparation; now bless them in their service to us.
Thank you for your servants who will read and preach your Word to us today. Give them focus and freedom, passion and pacing, and faithfulness to the text and joy in Jesus.
By your Spirit, open us to your Word today, and your Word to us. May the gospel come with convicting and humbling power, and with gladdening and transforming grace. No matter the text, may Jesus be regaled as the heartbeat, focus, and fulfillment of the passage.
Thank you for the guests and visitors who will gather with us today. May they experience your welcoming heart, the magnificence of your glory, and the riches of your grace. And as we leave the service today—with your benediction and blessing, free us to serve you this week with gladness and hope. May we love well until the Day Jesus returns to finish making all things new. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ merciful and mighty name.
