FOCUS ON THE VISION
DENISE WALTON
During the next week, the Revised Common Lectionary draws the church into the biblical theme of discipleship. The third week after the Epiphany provides scriptural text from Jonah, 1 Corinthians, Psalms, and Mark. A common message throughout the text points the church to the call of God and a life of discipleship that continues to grow and invite others into a life of discipleship.
In addition, this week was also the observance of a national holiday in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. I invite you to reflect on the words of Dr. King then take a moment to read the litany and pray for the church and the world.
“In a real sense, all life is interrelated. All people are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny.” - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Strength to Love, 1963
Let us pray for the Church and for the world.
A LITANY FOR THE CHURCH AND FOR THE WORLD
Grant, almighty God,
that all who confess your name may be united in your truth,
live together in your love, and reveal your glory in the world.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. Silent prayer.
Guide the people of this land, and of all the nations,
in the ways of justice and peace;
that we may honor one another and serve the common good.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. Silent prayer.
Give us all a reverence for the earth as your own creation,
that we may use its resources rightly
in the service of others and to your honor and glory.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. Silent prayer.
Bless all whose lives are closely linked with ours,
and grant that we may serve Christ in them,
and love one another as Christ loves us.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. Silent prayer.
Comfort and heal all those who suffer in body, mind, or spirit;
give them courage and hope in their troubles,
and bring them the joy of your salvation.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. Silent prayer.
We commend to your mercy all who have died,
that your will for them may be fulfilled;
and we pray that we may share with all your saints
in your eternal kingdom
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. Silent prayer.
We offer these prayers through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
(THE BOOK OF COMMON PRAYER, U.S.A., 1979, pp. 388-389 , ALT.)
Rev. Denise Walton serves as the Assistant to the Bishop for Connectional Ministries. Contact her at denise@sgaumc.org.