Scripture: Deuteronomy 26:5-9
Then you should solemnly state before the LORD your God: “My father was a starving Aramean. He went down to Egypt, living as an immigrant there with few family members, but that is where he became a great nation, mighty and numerous. The Egyptians treated us terribly, oppressing us and forcing hard labor on us. So we cried out for help to the LORD, our ancestors’ God. The LORD heard our call. God saw our misery, our trouble, and our oppression. The LORD brought us out of Egypt with a strong hand and an outstretched arm, with awesome power, and with signs and wonders. He brought us to this place and gave us this land—a land full of milk and honey.
Thought for the Day: The story of Israel is a story of a God who did not ignore the cries of the people, but responded with love and liberation. This is, as Deuteronomy described it, a story about God and what God has done. Of course, we know more of the details which included people like Shiprah, Puah, Moses, Pharaoh’s daughter, Aaron, Mariam and many others. God’s liberating power is made real in human beings, including imperfect and sometimes excuse-ridden folks. Yet let us give thanks that God did not wait for the perfect leader to come along as God would still be waiting. Today, we will be praying for our church leaders (12:15pm & 6:45pm) and the work they have ahead of them. I am among those who are in leadership, and I covet any and all prayers that encourage and undergird the work being done. God is always at work, but this work is most often done through faulty leaders like myself…faulty leaders who need some prayer.
Prayer: As you are always among us, Lord God, let us continue the disciplined work that is necessary to be attentive to your everlasting presence. You call us and invite us to offer our gifts, and for some, those gifts are in the area of leadership. Let each leader recognize how best to lead in every unique moment, and to continually recognize the example of Jesus who lead from the place of a humble servant. Amen.
TODAY
Let’s Join Together In Prayer
12:15pm & 6:45pm
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