3rd Sunday after Epiphany, January 24, 2010
Theme of the Day
The glory of the Lord is revealed in the reading of scripture. People stand at attention. People weep. People prostrate themselves in prayer. The unity of the church is another reflection of the glory of God. Most gloriously, the promises of God are fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ. Gather round. Listen up. Glimpse the glory of God.
Prayer of the Day
Almighty God, you sent your Son to proclaim your kingdom and to teach with authority. Anoint us with the power of your Spirit, that we, too, may bring good news to the afflicted, bind up the brokenhearted, and proclaim liberty to the captive; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Readings
Nehemiah 8:1–3, 5–6, 8–10
The exiles have returned and rebuilt Jerusalem. Now Ezra, the priest, reads the law of Moses to them in the public square. When they hear it, they weep for their sins and for the long years in exile, but Ezra reminds them that the joy of the Lord is their strength.
Psalm 19
1 Corinthians 12:12-31a
The apostle and pastor Paul uses the metaphor of the human body to describe how intimately connected we are in the church. For this struggling congregation in Corinth, Paul delivers a vital message of unity that is a mark of the church today.
Near the beginning of Jesus' public ministry, he visits his hometown of Nazareth. In the words of Isaiah, he states and claims his identity, purpose, and mission.
Prayers of the People
Drawn to the light of Christ, made bold in the waters of baptism, and filled with the Spirit, we lift up our prayers in confidence that God loves and listens to us.
A brief silence.
O God, you gather us into the body of Christ. Help us honor one another's gifts and work together as one. Fill us with the power of your Spirit. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
O God, you fill the world with wonder; help us to be good stewards of your handiwork. Fill us with the power of your Spirit. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
O God, you give value to each of us; not one of us is more or less important in your sight. Help us to see one another through your eyes. Fill us with the power of your Spirit. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
O God, you proclaim liberty to all those who suffer; help us be a presence of comfort to those who are oppressed by illness, poverty, or powerlessness (especially). Fill us with the power of your Spirit. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
O God, you promise us resurrection; help us reach out to those who weep and mourn, that we may share in the joy you have prepared for all your saints. Fill us with the power of your Spirit. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Here other intercessions may be offered.
Good and gracious God, we ask all these things and whatever else you see that we need with a sure and certain hope in your goodness and mercy, through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.
The Lord’s Prayer
Blessing
Light and peace are yours through Jesus Christ. Let your light so shine before others that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. Almighty God, Father, U Son and Holy Spirit, bless you now and forever. Amen.
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