This responsive prayer was penned by my partner in ministry and life, the Rev. Darrell Johnson. It is tailored to a uniquely Moravian observance--
remembering the martyrdom of Jan Hus.
O Savior Who makes our hearts rejoice, You teach Your disciples who we ought to be, but we do not always live the mission-minded life of which You speak. We confess that even in our listening we fail to act in ways that show we understand. We choose our own thinking over Your tasks and work.
FORGIVE US FOR MISSING THE POINT.
Jesus, You call us to be meek servants, but we let our pride, selfishness and boasting speak volumes for us. Instead of hungering and thirsting for righteousness, we crave power, possessions and personal gain.
HELP US, JESUS, TO TURN AWAY FROM MAKING MISTAKES AND MISSING THE MARK.
God of abounding grace, You task us with the mission of mercy, but we remain grudge-bearing, vengeful and unmerciful. You teach us that the pure in heart will see You, but our inner selves are lacking, cluttered and impure.
HEAL US O GOD SO THAT WE MIGHT BE MOTIVATED TO HEED YOUR CALL.
Holy Spirit, we are put to the mission of peacemaking and cooperation, but we would rather compete, fight, demand and argue.
SET US, SPIRIT, TO THE FAITHFUL JOURNEY OF MOVING ON IN YOUR HOLY MISSION.
Sovereign, we remember Jan Hus, instrument of reformation and renewal who ON THIS DAY IN 1415 remained faithful in a martyr’s death at the burning stake. In our weak devotion, spark in us a passion for faith and mission that we might stay on fire for our Savior. May a missional mindset mold us.
LEAD OUR ATTITUDES AND ACTIONS TO EMBRACE CHRIST’S CALL TO MISSION TODAY!
There is perhaps no greater joy in God’s heart than at this very moment! Right now, we call on our Savior to forgive, grant new life and move us on to a full-joy journey of mission together.
WE MOVE ON IN MISSION AND GRATITUDE! THANKS BE TO OUR MAKER AND SAVIOR! AMEN.
