“For this reason he (Jesus) had to be made like them, fully human in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people. 18 Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.” Hebrews 2:17,18
“Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: “Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Messiah. For the accuser of our brothers and sisters, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down. 11 They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death. 12 Therefore rejoice, you heavens and you who dwell in them!” Revelation 12:11,12 NIV
God of the sinful,
We praise You because You are the God of the sinful, the flawed, broken, the seeking heart. Not of the perfect. They need no-one if they exist! God of those of us who acknowledge our need, not just for forgiveness but for a reason to wake up and give thanks for the morning. Because You lovingly direct, help, support, comfort, inspire and delight in us. Because You became human and know what it is like to walk in our shoes. To be tempted, disappointed, to suffer and to die.
There have been many generations and incredible history since that first Christmas. And we are amazed at who You used. Fishermen, tax collectors, doubters who needed proof, men who at first persecuted Your followers . . . Countless millions of unknown individuals around the world, many who gave their lives. Each one with a unique testimony of how they met Jesus and made Him Lord. Their lives changed forever.
Each one precious, chosen, called by You with their own testimony of how and where they became Christians. You found us or we found You . . . and we too have a testimony. Even if it was not a Damascus Road experience, it was a miracle. Help us to appreciate Your forgiveness, to flourish in Your love, rely on Your strength and praise You. Wonderful Saviour, glorious Lord. Help us pray for the next generation who will come after us.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Suggestions for prayer . . .
God of the broken,
For all our family, friends and neighbours. So many hopes and prayers.
For churches as they prepare advent services and carol services for those who will come at this season. Hearts be open to receive You.
For all those who have gone before sharing Jesus thank You. For the generations yet to be born to get to know You in all Your fulness.
For our Government, that it might be directed to live to serve the people of this nation,
That the truth about what happened during Covid might be clearly seen and learned from.
For King Charles, the Queen and their families and steps towards reconciliation with Harry even if it looks impossible..
For Gaza and the Middle East, for a miraculous way forward to peace. So destruction can stop.
For Putin and Ukraine. An end to war, and soon. Change Russia’s outlook and situation.
For all those who need to know they are loved with Your everlasting, unfailing love today.
For all those who deliver help and aid in difficult times, war zones and places where there is famine, flood or poverty.
For all those planning Christmas meals and food for those struggling. For Christmas presents where they may not be any.
For countries where power is misused. Dictatorships, Military Junta’s. Provide for the oppressed.
For ourselves and our help and strength and well being today.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Wednesday 13th December 2023
Beautiful words and melody with some familiar words in the chorus!
All these pieces
Broken and scattered
In mercy gathered
Mended and whole
Empty handed
But not forsaken
I’ve been set free
I’ve been set free
Chorus
Amazing Grace
How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
Oh, I once was lost
But now I am found
Was blind but now I see
Oh I can see You now
Oh I can see the love in Your eyes
Laying Yourself down
Raising up the broken to life
You take our failure
You take our weakness
You set Your treasure
In jars of clay
So take this heart Lord
I’ll be Your vessel
The world to see
Your life in me
Chorus
Worship Interlude
Chorus
Lyrics: Jonas Myrin / Joel Houston