Call to Worship (adapted from Psalm 23)
One: We are gathered as a faithful flock.
All: Christ is our Shepherd and our Lord.
One: Though shadows fall on our path,
All: The Word of God is our light and our sword.
One: When trouble comes we shall not fear,
All: For we know that our Lord is ever near. Amen.
Prayer of Renewal
Lord, too often our prayers are just words that rest on the surface of our lips. We confess our sins, but never search our hearts thoroughly in order to change. We thank you for things we think we have accomplished alone. We ask for things we don’t believe you can deliver. Let us not be shallow in our prayers. Help us to plumb the depths of your word in prayer, and uncover the truths you have stored up for us. May we unite our souls to you, so that we reflect your divine image in all we do.
Scripture: Psalm 23
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures;
he leads me beside still waters;
3 he restores my soul.
He leads me in right paths
for his name’s sake.
4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley,
I fear no evil;
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff—
they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord
my whole life long.