Worship Prayers for Sept. 16

CENTERING PRAYER  As I open my eyes, I can see the heavens that tell of your glory.  Allow me to be part of this creation that proclaims your handiwork and your real presence in the world.  Amen.

     

CALL TO WORSHIP

Look at the heavens!

        They are shouting the glory of God.

The days and the nights declare the magnificence of God’s creative works.

        Their voice goes through all the earth, and their words reach the ends of the world.

Let our words of praise be acceptable to you.

        Our Lord, our rock, our redeemer!

   PRAYER OF CONFESSION

You have called us, O God, and we have refused to listen; you have stretched out your hand, and we have not taken it.  We have taken what you have given us and used those gifts to hurt others and defy you.  We have refused to be tamed by your wisdom.  Forgive our inability to recognize you and live out the reality of your gospel.  Give us the insight we need to understand your place in our livesso that our words and actions reflect the glory of God in the lives of others.  In the name of the Messiah we continue to pray.  (Silent Confession)

SCRIPTURE READING                                                            James 3:1-12

† AFFIRMATION OF FAITH - Apostles’ Creed

I believe in God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth, and in Jesus Christ his only son, our Lord; who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried; he descended into hell; the third day he rose again from the dead; he ascended into heaven and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.  I believe in the Holy Ghost, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting.  Amen.

For the sermon "Burn Ban", click here.