[A letter was sent to our congregation last week informing us that our church building will remain closed for the foreseeable future because we want to protect our congregation from the coronavirus. We will continue to monitor the situation, provide online worship services, and offer prayers for our world during this challenging time. For Sunday’s online worship service, click here.]
God of resurrection and ascension, thank you for reminding us today that you have ascended to your heavenly throne where you rule over all creation. We can’t think of a better King than you. You are a King who rules justly. You are a King who loves fully. You are a King who provides graciously. You are a King who loves deeply. You are a King who forgives completely. You are a King who cares infinitely. And you are a King who reigns eternally.
You rule over all earthly kingdoms, all political systems, and all earthly powers. In response to your heavenly rule which knows no end, we offer you all our praise, adoration, and worship this day and every day.
As citizens of your heavenly kingdom, we seek to make this world a better place by pledging our allegiance to your kingdom over any political party or economic system that would threaten to harm your creation. Forgive us for when we confuse our political worldviews with your kingly rule. Thank you for Ascension Sunday, this day on the church calendar that reminds us to keep our focus on the King of kings and the Lord of lords rather than on the latest political ad or conspiracy theory. We don’t have time for such silly things as citizens of your kingdom.
In this world where there is so much pain, brokenness and disease, we continue to pray for all of those who have been impacted by the coronavirus. We pray for the skills of all of those who are providing medical care and who are searching for a vaccine. Bless their work, O God.
We pray for those who are recovering from surgery, those who are facing medical challenges, those who are unemployed, and those who are facing difficult decisions. May your loving care and guidance surround them and may their hearts be strangely warmed this day.
On this Memorial Day weekend, we are especially thankful for all of those who have served in the armed services and who are no longer with us. Thank you for their sacrifice and service to our country.
And now as citizens of your kingdom, we join in praying the prayer you taught your disciples and now teach us to say together…
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
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