Father-as we gather this morning, it is good to be reminded once again of who we are-we are your church-your chosen people, called by grace, walking in faith and standing on your promises. We are empowered by the Spirit’s breath and together we are taught by your Word. We gather this morning not merely out of obligation, but we do so that we may glorify you as your body on this earth as we look to Christ, the founder and perfecter of our faith. Together, may we run with endurance the race that you have set before each of us. And as we do so, we ask that you help us to bear one another’s burdens as each of us strive to lay aside every weight and sin which clings so closely. If at any time, any of us are caught in any transgression-ensnared by sin-may we come alongside them and restore them with a spirit of gentleness. May we increasingly submit to one another out of reverence for Christ-help us to outdo one another in showing honor to each other. Doing so with compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Help us to bear with one another and forgive each other; as the Lord has forgiven each of us. And above all these may we put on love, because as your Word tells us, it is love that binds everything together in perfect harmony.  

As we sing this morning, may we recall that in doing so we are singing your wisdom to one another for the purpose of teaching and admonishment so that each of us may increasingly be conformed to the image of your son. Help us to be steadfast, immoveable-always abounding in your work, trusting that it will not be in vain.

Lord, we pray not only for this body of believers here this morning, but also for those that are gathered all over the world. Just as we ask for ourselves, we ask that you would also help them to endure and grow in the likeness of Christ. That all of us would be lights in a dark world. 

Finally, Father-we give thanks this morning for those who are in attendance from other churches-those who desire to grow in the task you have given them to shepherd the bodies where you have sovereignly placed them. May you bless their efforts and use them for the purposes of your kingdom. We look forward to the day when our Lord gathers his kingdom and all of us will together reside with him forever.

We give thanks this morning in Christ’s holy name-amen