Reading: Joel 2.12-13 ESV
“Yet even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; and rend your hearts and not your garments.”
Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love; and he relents over disaster.
Prayer: Heavenly Father – I come to You, during this Lenten season, seeking Your grace… Your mercy… and Your love. Hear my prayer. Lord Jesus – You who was tempted in all things… yet without sin. Have compassion and mercy on me. Holy Spirit – Discern the thoughts and intents of my heart. Humble me before You… that I might serve You with all my heart. I ask it in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Scripture Song: “What If His People Prayed” – Casting Crowns (YouTube)
What if the armies of the Lord / Picked up and dusted off their swords / Vowed to set the captives free / And not let Satan have one more
What if the church for heaven’s sake / Finally stepped up to the plate / Took a stand upon God’s promise / And stormed hell’s rusty gates
What if His people prayed / And those who bear His name / Would humbly seek His face / And turn from their own way
And what would happen if we prayed / For those raised up to lead the way / Then maybe kids in school could pray / And unborn children see light of day
What if the life that we pursue / Came from a hunger for the truth / What if the family turned to Jesus / Stopped asking Oprah what to do
What if His people prayed / And those who bear His name / Would humbly seek His face / And turn from their own way
He said that they would hear / His promise has been made / He’s answered loud and clear, Yeah / If only we would pray
If My people called by My name / If they’ll humble themselves and pray / If My people called by My name / If they’ll humble themselves and pray
What if His people prayed / And those who bear His name / Would humbly seek His face, Yeah / And turn from their own way
He said that they would hear / His promise has been made / He’s answered loud and clear, Yeah / If only we would pray
What if His people prayed
The Peanut Gallery 
“stopped asking Oprah what to do” best line ever! Thanks, Art. Blessings on you and yours on this Ash Wednesday.
et tu aussi
Tremendous, Art.
Great prayer and I love that song, but don’t believe I’ve ever had the chance to read the lyrics.
Thanks so much, partner………!
you’re welcome.