A Prayer About Living a Called Life
To God’s elect, strangers in the world, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia, who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and sprinkling by his blood: Grace and peace be yours in abundance. 1 Peter 1:1-2
Heavenly Father, it’s the first Lord’s Day of the new year. In a little while I’ll share the joy of gathering with my brothers and sisters in Christ to worship you. May the ministry of the Word and the Lord’s Supper, exalt your Son, Jesus, and release the power of your Spirit in our midst. For you, blessed Triune God, are alone worthy to be loved and adored. Be exalted in our hearts… in our community… and among the nations of the world!
May this be a year in which we re-engage with the calling that you’ve given us, together. Our fragile economy, cultural values, and global crises blend to make a recipe for “everybody doing what is right in their own eyes”-looking out for ourselves, and no one else. But the gospel contradicts all such isolated, inward, independent living.
Father, we are your people, not just your persons… chosen by your foreknowledge… redeemed by your Son… set apart by your Spirit… scattered throughout the world for your glory… placed in particular cities for your purposes.
You’ve called us to live as strangers in this world, not as strange people. If there’s to be anything offensive about us, may it only be the gospel of your grace. You’ve called us to live as a colony of heaven… exiles with a great hope… a “preview of coming attractions.” NOT, as ingrown congregations filled with religious neuroses and pathologies of fear.
This is why, indeed, we will need an abundance of your grace and peace this year. For you have called us to obey Jesus, and not just enjoy hearing about him and singing about him…
Lord Jesus, what an unparalleled joy and honor it is to begin this year remembering we are a beloved people, but also remembering that we are a called people. Live and love, in us and through us, all year long… to your glory. So very Amen, we pray, in your most worthy name.