Wednesday of the Seventh Week of Easter

+ In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen!

Opening Prayer

Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: we confess that we have sinned against you and against our neighbor. We are truly sorry and humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us.

Lord, God of heaven, look down and see your people who are in great trouble and distress. The evil one prowls this earth seeking to steal, kill, and destroy us. Protect us and deliver us from evil. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, who live and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

Reading: John 17:12-19 (NLT)

During my time here, I protected them by the power of the name you gave me. I guarded them so that not one was lost, except the one headed for destruction, as the Scriptures foretold.

“Now I am coming to you. I told them many things while I was with them in this world so they would be filled with my joy. I have given them your word. And the world hates them because they do not belong to the world, just as I do not belong to the world. I’m not asking you to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one. They do not belong to this world any more than I do. Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth. Just as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world. And I give myself as a holy sacrifice for them so they can be made holy by your truth.
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Reflection & Prayer:

Lord Jesus Christ:

+ You have called us by name and we have followed you; we are your people, the sheep of your pasture. Thank you, Good Shepherd, our provider and protector.

+ You have chosen us to be your very own possession that we may show others your goodness. Thank you, Light of the world, for calling us out of the darkness into your wonderful light.

+ You have set us apart as temporary residents and foreigners in a hostile and unbelieving world. Thank you, Word of God, for teaching us and consecrating us in your truth.

+ You have given us your Spirit that we may lead honorable lives. Thank you, Spirit of Christ, for empowering us to live as citizens of your Kingdom – respecting everyone and loving the family of believers.

Lord our God: our rock, our fortress, our savior; protect us and keep us safe from the evil one.  Through Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
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“Keep Us Safe” – Carrie Underwood

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Concluding Prayer – Psalm 18:2-3 (NLT)

The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety. I called on the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and he saved me from my enemies.
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+ In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen!