What father among you, if his son asks for a fish, will instead of a fish give him a serpent; or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him! Luke 11:11–13
Heavenly Father, on this August Saturday, we take Jesus’ promise very seriously. First of all, we’re so thankful we know you as Father, and everything that brings with it. We’re not just children; we’re your children. That, literally, changes everything.
You’ve already re-birthed us through your Spirit, sealed us by your Spirit, and gifted us with the indwelling Spirit. And now, in our hunger, we ask for more of the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives. We love fish and eggs, but we are starving for a fresh work of your Spirit.
In a culture of rancor and rage, humble and gentle us. In an hour of disdain, divisiveness, and defensiveness, show us more of Jesus—who prays for our unity, is our peace; and our only King and hope.
Individually, only your Spirit can restore our first love for Jesus—which is essential to the rest of our days in this broken world. Only your Spirit can convict us deeply, without condemning us. Hallelujah for that.
Only your Spirit can make Jesus’ love compelling to us, your grace sufficient for us, and the Gospel powerful in us. Like baby robins, we open our whole being wide to your Spirit. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ lovely and loving name.