Our Whole Self, Before You

Some questions as we draw close together before God.

How are you? How is your heart, mind, and body as you root yourself in the abiding love of Christ? Some of us may have smiles on our faces, but our spirits are groaning, crying out for God to intervene. Are you exhausted and weary? Are you carrying uncertainty or fear? Are you drenched in anxiety? Have you faced frustration after frustration? Are you in a season of joy beyond all measure? Is hope finally in your life? Where are you resting in God? Where are you welcoming Him?

Pause and consider.

Father,

We come together, as we are, before You. Unique and eclectic, with different cares and concerns. We acknowledge Lord, that this space is sacred, us before You. It is a thin place where we behold your faithfulness and goodness. It is a space where we pause and intentionally grasp hold of your love; a love so profound that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation can separate us from You, Jesus.

You are so, so good.

In your love, God, we are set free from the things that bind us up and hold us in darkness. So, with humble hearts, we return to you. We run to you. Prune away that which needs to go. Anchor us in your kind and gentle ways. Provoke us towards beauty and flourishing; not just for us, but for humanity, for we are all precious in your sight, and made in your image. Guide us as we steward the gifts you have given us. Help us to love others, as you have loved us.

And Lord, we engage with your Word today — would you give us a renewed vision of hope? Will you help us to hope again? To trust you, Jesus, as you make all things new.

Amen.