Lent Week 1

Opening Prayer
“Almighty God, your Son Jesus Christ fasted forty days in the wilderness, and was tempted as we are but did not sin. Give us grace to discipline ourselves in obedience to your Spirit; and, as you know our weakness, so may we know your power to save; through Jesus Christ our Lord.” [from The Book of Common Order (Church of Scotland, Presbyterian)]

Meditate on the Psalms
Last Sunday’s call to worship was Psalm 91. 
Next Sunday’s call to worship will be Psalm 27.

Growing in Grace: Pondering 2 Corinthians 3-6

• How do we perceive our competence (2 Corinthians 3.4-5)?
• Stop to wonder anew that you participate in the eternal glory of the ministry of the Holy Spirit (2 Corinthians 3.7-11).
• How can you better cooperate with the Spirit’s movement in your life, who’s ministry brings righteousness (2 Corinthians 3.7-11)?

Closing Prayer
“We give thee thanks—yes, more than thanks, O Lord our God, for all thy goodness at all times and in all places, because thou has shielded, rescued, helped and guided us all the days of our lives and brought us to this hour. We pray and beseech thee, merciful God, to grant in thy goodness that we may spend this day, and all the time of our lives, without sin, in fullness of joy, holiness and reverence of thee. But drive away from us, O Lord, all envy, all fear and all temptations. Bestow on us what is good and meet. Whatever sin we commit in thought, word or deed, do thou in thy goodness and mercy be pleased to pardon. And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil; through the grace, mercy and love of thine only-begotten Son. Amen. Liturgy of St. Mark”
[ from Ancient Christian Devotional. edited by T.C. Oden. 2009. IVP Books]