   Pictured above is the Karna Lutheran church in Malmslatt, Sweden.  Like many of the churches in Europe, this church is very old. The present structure is no doubt the result of several expansions and remodelings of the old church, but the original part of the building is believed to go back over 800 […]
Psalm 32:1-5: Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered.  Blessed is the one whose sin the Lord does not count against them and in whose spirit is no deceit. When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. For day and night your hand was heavy on me; my strength was sapped as
3140) Prayers of Confession Read More »
Above: Different wording and numbering, but the same basic commands. ———- Prayers by Martin Luther (1483-1546), adapted from Luther’s Prayers, translated by Charles Kistler (1917) ———- (1st commandment)  Eternal God, you ask that I rely on you alone with all my heart in all things.  It is your earnest desire to be my God, and I must believe
3116) Prayers on the Commandments Read More »
Ecclesiastes 3:1 — There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens. ————————————– Prayers blended from a variety of sources: Dear Father, I thank You that throughout the season of life, there are endings and new beginnings. Your Word reminds us that there is a time for every purpose
3110) Prayers for Endings and Beginnings Read More »
To lead the family in prayer and meditation. (Adapted and blended from several prayer books.) ———————————— In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Lord, remember us in your kingdom and teach us to pray (together): Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy
3086) Family Prayers at a Deathbed Read More »
Above drawing: Woman Praying at a Deathbed, 1864, by Swiss artist Benjamin Vautier (1829-1898) ——————————————- The day will come for each of us when we will need these prayers. FOR THE DYING: O my heavenly Father, God of all comfort, I thank you for revealing to me your dear Son, Jesus Christ, in whom I
3085) Prayers When Death Is Near Read More »
Luke 23:32-43 — Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with Jesus to be executed. When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him there, along with the criminals—one on his right, the other on his left. Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And
3084) Making up for Bad Choices Read More »
O God of Peace, who hast taught us that in returning and rest we shall be saved, that in quietness and confidence shall be our strength:  By the might of Thy Spirit lift us, we pray, to Thy presence, where we may be still and know that thou art God; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord.  Amen. —Book
3062) Prayers to Begin Prayer-Time Read More »
AN OLD STORY:    A caravan settled for the night, and the servant tending the camels came to report to the chief.    “Are all the camels tied for the night?” asked the chief.    “I tied up all the camels, except for my own,” replied the servant.  “So great is my faith
3035) Don’t Bother God Read More »
From: Conversations With God: Two Centuries of Prayers by African Americans, compiled by James Melvin Washington, 1994. ***************************** A PRAYER FOR ONE NEAR DEATH: Now Lord, we know that we didn’t come here to stay always. We know this earth is not our home. We’re just pilgrims making our way through this howling wilderness. One
3027) “Good Lawd, Deliber Us!” Read More »
