Tuesday 19 April 2011

Prayers

I am sometimes asked to lead the intercessionary prayers at church, in the Anglican tradition.
I don't like doing it - prefer something more interactive - but recently, feel it is right.
I feel it is right because the prayers are God-inspired, not of my own creativity or glorifying writing techniques.
I feel it is right because I feel no pride - yet recognise that they are 'right'.
Here are the last lot, on Palm Sunday:

Meekness and majesty
Manhood and deity
In perfect harmony
The Man who IS God.

Lord, those many years ago, riding into Jerusalem, Your people then recognized you as their king. Forgive us, Lord, for those many times in our daily lives when we fail to acknowledge your kingship and give other things more importance.

As the crowd hailed you as you entered Jerusalem, so do we. We know that you are healer, redeemer, saviour - and that with You, all things are possible. We bring you our hopes for the future: for peace in the troubled countries of Libya and Ivory Coast; for restoration of devastated lives after the earthquake in Japan; and we ask, not only for your intervention, but that you will be glorified, that men and women will see your great power at work in those situations.

We pray for your people who, like the disciples, know you as their king, especially for our leaders: the bishops, our Dean here in Guernsey and all those who guide us in Your ways. Give them wisdom, bless them.

And just as many flocked to you for healing, so we too pray for those who are sick, physically, or are burdened mentally and emotionally, and expecially for those suffering grief or loss.

Meekness and majesty
Manhood and deity
In perfect harmony
The Man who IS God.
(With thanks to Graham Kendrick for these words of chorus)