Dear Father,

Thank you for being a father who sees. May I never forget the depth of your love. As I picture Jesus, your son, on the cross, bloody and beaten and I consider that he willingly walked into that torture for me so that I could endure, myself, and come to you despite the things I have done, I fall to my knees because there is no greater love.

Sometimes my actions don’t reflect gratitude, but Father, I come to you as a sinner. I come to you and ask your forgiveness and you accept me. You accept me in spite of it. You have already washed away my transgressions. How can anyone give more love than that? How can anyone give more compassion than that?

Father, this world is so full of ugliness and it gives me heartache every day. But in recent times, I have seen how powerful you are. I have seen your work spreading and more people coming to you and that gives me hope.

As we go into church today to worship and praise you, Lord, let us feel your presence. I pray for your spirit to be felt so strongly, Father, that no one could deny your presence. May the people in the cars driving by feel your spirit!

Father, I pray for those whose names I’ve mentioned privately, for your healing of body, your healing of spirit, your gift of salvation! Place your hands on them and heal their physical pain, heal their heartache and open their eyes to see you and hearts to receive you.

And finally, God, my Father, you know MY heart. You know where I am. You see me. Please reveal to me my next steps. Please reveal to me my path. I’m ready to move, Father. Father, please never stop working on my heart. Heal me and restore me so I can move confidently in your purpose in my life. Send me the people, or direct me to the people who will be a part of that purpose. And Father, help ME to see what you need me to see. Help me to HEAR your voice and to know that it is you. Help me to be a blessing to those around me. Light my path.

Thank you for your gift of life! It isn’t easy, but in even the worst days there is beauty if we look to you.

Bless our service today and the church and help us to do your work in the community, spreading your love and compassion.

I love you, and in your holy name, Amen!