Day 26 May 19, 2006
Read: Psalm 72
Reflection: The first verse sets the theme of this psalm of prayer. The prayer request is for justice and righteousness. These attributes are essential for good leaders and good judges.
When justice prevails the entire community is affected. There is a sense of correctness and accountability. Needs are met. Hope and security are enjoyed.
With righteous individuals in leadership comes honesty, godliness, an excellent example of purity and a clear conscience.
Adoration: May the name of the Lord be praised! He is righteousness and justice. His name stands for His very nature and all of who He is and does. His name is glorified among His grateful people who recognize what He does. As He makes himself known to each one of us individually, His glory is spread over the earth and we join with all creation in proclaiming His holy name.
Confession: So often our eyes are blind and our hearts apathetic to the wonderful deeds of our God which are apparent all around us. We fail to see or acknowledge His workings and the opportunities He provides to engage us in joining with Him in His work. We are sometimes lazy and self-absorbed, and easily distracted. We are often quick to think ill of others because of initial appearances.
Thanksgiving: Thanks be to our Lord Jesus who has paid for all our sins. Thanks be to God who forgives us and makes all things new. He raises up just and righteous people patterned after Himself. He blesses the nations, helps the needy, rescues, provides for, and protects.
Supplication: May we completely surrender ourselves to be changed more dynamically into the likeness of our Lord.
Dear Lord,
You are glorious and worthy of our praise. May Your name and attributes be glorified in Your church and extend out to the communities around us.
We confess that we fall short in many ways. Hear our repentant hearts. Change us to be more like You.
Thank You for the righteousness given to those who have accepted Jesus as Lord. As you look at us you see Jesus in our place, and our sins have been washed away. Thank You, Lord!
May the whole earth be filled with Your glory!
In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
Susie Barnes
Netarts Friends Church