“I was glad when they said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord.’” Psalm 122:1
Heavenly Father—on this Father’s Day, we’re so grateful we can actually, not metaphorically, call you Father. Our adoption into your family has completely redefined what we think of when we use the phrase “house of the Lord.” Your “house” isn’t a building, but a family—our forever family. Hallelujah, we are your beloved children.
Many of us in the “family” will enjoy the privilege of corporate worship today—the “gladness” of gathering with sisters and brothers to boast in Christ, worship by the Spirit, and receive your Word and sacraments. We don’t take this privilege for granted.
We pray for those who will lead us in your worship—those who will walk through the liturgy, pray for us, and enable us to make a joyful noise through our singing. We also pray for your servants who will read and preach your Word to us today. Give them focus and freedom, faithfulness to the Biblical text and love for their church family.
By your Spirit, open us to your Word today, and your Word to us. May the Gospel come with joy-fueling, transforming power. No matter the Scripture, may Jesus be regaled as the heartbeat, focus, and fulfillment of the passage. It’s impossible for us to make too much of Jesus.
We also pray for the guests and visitors who will gather with us. May they experience your welcoming heart, the magnificence of your glory, and the riches of your grace. And as we leave the service today, free us to serve you this week with gladness and hope. May we love well until the Day Jesus returns to finish making all things new. So Very Amen