Further Prayers for Morning Prayer on Wednesday 4th August 2021

The Heavens are Telling, Emil Carlson, c1918

Further prayers written for Morning Prayer according to the Book of Common Prayer at St Stephen Walbrook on Wednesday 4th August 2021, based on readings from Psalm 19, Ezekiel 39.21-end, Mark 1.21-28.

From Psalm 19 : “The heavens declare the glory of God * and the firmament sheweth his handywork.”

Living God, who spake into being both heaven and earth;
may we hear your voice in the unspoken words all around us.
Help us, thy stewards of this transitory life, to see your boundless grace in the smallest part and the greatest expanse of your handiwork.
Forgive us for the harm we cause to the earth; help us to amend our lives to reduce  our impact on the natural world,
and direct us to new life in communion with all your creation. 
Amen.

From the Book of the Prophet Ezekiel: “I have gathered them unto their own land, and have left none of them any more there.”

Eternal God, whose generous love extends beyond the realm of time and space;
Gather and protect all your people, especially those who are sick and suffering today, including Anthony, Melissa, Caroline and Manuelle, Emma, John, Vanessa, Peter, Jennifer, Adrian and family, Melvyn, Ian, Jim, Nick, Martin and Sam.
Welcome into your kingdom all who have recently died including baby Elizabeth Astari,
Comfort her parents Steve and Sarah us in the knowledge that as we journey towards everlasting life, you will show your face to all who seek you; leaving none alone in the land of pain and sorrow. 
Amen.

From the Gospel according to St Matthew : “What thing is this? what new doctrine is this? for with authority commandeth he even the unclean spirits, and they do obey him.”

Almighty God, whose power is beyond our understanding; help us to live this day as thy humble servants; according to the example revealed to us in your Son, our Great High Priest.
Grant us the courage to loosen our grip on all that falsely possesses our thoughts and claims authority over us. 
By your grace, drive from us all malice, selfishness and discord towards others,
   cleanse us with thy Spirit and hold us forever in the truth of thy peace.  
Amen.

Image : The Heavens are Telling, Emil Carlson, c1918