“Jesse presented seven of his sons to Samuel. But Samuel said to Jesse, “The Lord has not chosen any of these.” 11 Then Samuel asked Jesse, “Is that all the young men?” Jesse replied, “There is still the youngest one, but he’s taking care of the flock.” Samuel said to Jesse, “Send and get him, for we cannot turn our attention to other things until he comes here.” 12 So Jesse had him brought in. Now he was ruddy, with attractive eyes and a handsome appearance. The Lord said, “Go and anoint him. This is the one.” 13 So Samuel took the horn full of olive oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers. The Spirit of the Lord rushed upon David from that day onward.” 1 Samuel 16:10-13 NET
Dear God,
Samuel got over his mourning for the past and went on with God. It is so reassuring that You, our God choose to be faithful in all our changing moods! You did not sweep him aside and get someone else to do the job and You did not punish him. You are a faithful God.
Seven sons pass by and it is not said but Jesse must have been proud of his sons. Had he forgotten about the youngest? Isaiah gives us the promise that You, God never forget Your children, their names are graven on the palms of Your hands (Isaiah 49:16) Not across the knuckles but in the soft skin, the holding part of Your hands. Your son stretched out his arms and had his hands nailed to a cross. You can never forget us, and never cease to hold us in pure love. Ineffable – love that word.
I love that this takes place in Bethlehem. David is anointed King in the place Your Son, the King of Kings was to be born. We praise You for Your purposes and for loving us as we are.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Dear God,
For our family, friends, neighbours, those we promised to pray for.
For our fellowship and congregation members, our ministers, servers, wardens.
For our king and His family and all those in authority (1 Timothy 2:2). Local Council.
For our Government, advisors, diplomats and ambassadors.
For Ukraine and Russia. Miracles to lead to the end of war and oppression.
For Israel, Lebanon, the Middle East. Countries in conflict. Your purposes override those of man.
For those children in care who need to know they are loved and loveable.
For adults who grew up feeling inadequate and insecure.
For farmers caring for livestock and threat to their children’s inheritance.
For us to remember we are in Your hands today and always. May our hands do some kind deed.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Monday 25th November 2024
Before the throne of God above
I have a strong and perfect plea;
a great High Priest whose name is Love,
who ever lives and pleads for me.
My name is graven on his hands,
my name is written on his heart.
I know that while in heav’n he stands
no tongue can bid me thence depart,
no tongue can bid me thence depart.
When Satan tempts me to despair
and tells me of the guilt within,
upward I look and see him there
who made an end of all my sin.
Because the sinless Savior died,
my sinful soul is counted free;
for God the just is satisfied
to look on him and pardon me,
to look on him and pardon me.
Behold him there, the risen Lamb,
my perfect, spotless righteousness,
the great unchangeable I AM,
the King of glory and of grace.
At one with him, I cannot die;
my soul is purchased by his blood.
My life is hid with Christ on high,
with Christ my Savior and my God,
with Christ my Savior and my God.
Lyrics: Charitie Lees Bancroft