Call to Worship & Prayer: Proper 24A

 
Here’s a call to worship and opening prayer for October 16, 2011 (Proper 24A, Ordinary 29A).  They were written by Mary J. Scifres and posted on the Ministry Matters website. 

Call to Worship
(based on Exodus 33:12-23, Psalm 99, Matthew 22:15-22)

The earth has its kings, but God is ruler of all.
Praise God above all, the giver of life!
The mountains may tremble, the oceans may roar,
but God's presence is more powerful
than the earth itself.

Come into God's presence, for God is among us now.
O God, show us your glory; we seek your ways.
Come to the Rock, the God of life,
for God is present now.

Opening Prayer
(based on Exodus 33:12-23, 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10, Matthew 22:15-22)

Loving, living God,
be among us now.
Show us your ways.
Guide our steps.
Live in us,
that we may be people of steadfast hope
and powerful giving.
Help us hear your words,
challenging us to give you
all the things that are yours.
Help us remember
that all we are and all we have
are gifts from you,
gifts to be shared in service and love.
Holy One among us,
help us be a holy people
who receive your word with joy
and live your message with love. Amen.