Opening Prayer: Psalm 139

Here’s a possible opening prayer for January 15, 2011. It’s based on Psalm 139, one of the suggested scripture passage for the second Sunday of Epiphany.  

Opening Prayer
(based on Psalm 139)

All-knowing God,
We gather together with praise and thanksgiving
for who You are,
and for all that You have done for us.

You know us better than we know ourselves—
all our thoughts and actions—
and yet You love us.

No matter where we go or what we do,
Your love encircles us—ahead and behind—
gently leading and guiding and blessing.
We praise You for Your love
and Your faithful presence in our lives.

May Your Spirit move in our hearts and minds as we worship together—
examine our attitudes and actions,
lay bare the things we need to confess,
challenge us with Your Word,
and guide us on to paths that lead to life.

For we are Your people, called by Your name.
Amen.


For more opening prayer ideas, click on opening prayer in the list of “Labels” at the lower right, or see the Scriptural Prayer Index at the upper right side of the page.