September 5, 2010 -- Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
O Lord, our Rock and Redeemer, the cost of discipleship seems just and reasonable as we bow our heads in prayer. Yet when we think about the economic pressures in our lives -- the mortgage, car payments, school supplies, health care, college tuition, and credit card debt -- giving money is a challenge. Strengthen the connection between your call to discipleship and our giving habits. We strive to grow in generosity so that our giving is a reflection of our desire to be in a covenant relationship with you. In your holy name, we pray. Amen. (Luke 14:25-33)
September 12, 2010 -- Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Redeeming God, we know what it is like to be wandering in the wilderness like lost sheep. We remember your hands, like those of a caring shepherd, guiding us back to our home in you. We seek to help others experience this same spiritual nurture. So we provide these financial gifts to be multiplied with other offerings. We are confident that these funds will inspire new ministries and reach the lost. We offer these gifts in the name of the Lamb of God, Jesus the Living Christ. Amen. (Luke 15:1-10)
September 19, 2010 -- Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost
Faithful One, you have entrusted us with so many gifts that are more important than worldly possessions. You have called us to be stewards of all that you have created. We strive to fulfill your call to be generous stewards by openly sharing the bounty you have placed under our care. We know that we visibly demonstrate our commitment to your work in this world by giving these tithes and offerings. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen. (Luke 16:1-13)
September 26, 2010 -- Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Patient God, our ears listen attentively, yet our understanding is lacking. Our eyes look wide open, yet we fail to see the human suffering that is squarely in front of us. Our hands stretch outward, yet remain listless. Our voice encourages others, yet remains silent to those in despair. Every day, we are faced with opportunities to respond. Forgive us. Awaken us. Encourage us. Call us again to respond by offering your salvation and your abundant life to others every day. We humbly place these gifts before you. Amen. (Luke 16:19-31)
Written by David S. Bell, former Director of Stewardship with GBOD. He currently serves as Vice-President of Stewardship with the United Methodist Foundation of Michigan. You may contact him by visiting www.DavidSBell.org.
Copyright © 2010 David S. Bell. Any local church, regardless of denominational affiliation, or any United Methodist organization may reprint any or all of these prayers provided that the author is cited.
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