[link below for downloading PDF “printable prayer” version, 8″ x 10″, suitable for display]
Lord God,
In these weeks leading up to Christmas we long to know the meaning, the power, and the mystery of that great mission whereby you came to save us from our sins.
Help us to focus on the good news that has caused great joy for people around the world and across the ages. We are in awe that the coming of the Lord Jesus has shaped the history of the world and has changed untold millions of lives. We need this gospel in troubled times lest we become cynical, doubtful, fearful, or vengeful. Strengthen our faith during challenging times.
We rejoice in the proclamation of Immanuel, God with us. As Isaiah said, “to us a child is born, to us a son is given and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” [Isaiah 9:6]
We need the governing of the Lord Christ because humanity is so out of control.
We need the “Wonderful Counselor” because we wander in ignorance and foolishness so much of the time.
We need the savior who is “Mighty God,” able to save and preserve.
We need an “Everlasting Father” who protects us and provides not what we think we need but what we truly need.
We need the “Prince of Peace” because of the tensions between the nations of the world, because there are thousands of people whose hearts are dark with thoughts of murder and terrorism, and because even friends and family members so often battle with each other.
We have always needed a savior. Now more than ever.
In the name of the Jesus the Christ, Son of God, Savior. Amen.
Dr, Lawrenz,
Most scholars agree that there is no evidence of the existence of Jesus as I disagree since he sent his spirit and I will say this evidence of that spirit and his power is in love demonstrated in his name.
Many believe conspiracy afoot as his body was not found as he rose from his tomb and ascended into heaven so they say….
prayer is only uttered by his spirit as I see you prey for us to demonstrate his love for us in his name.
I believe that prayer shall be answered at Elmbrook Church.
Just an opinion….
Nine
Dr. Lawrenz,
I was at Elmbrook Church tonight and I can say the power of his spirit was mighty in its power to change hearts and minds at this Church.
Your sermon was a mix of humor and very serious subjects such as the passing of Bush 41 and the impact of his life upon America. My opinion is that America is better because of him. However, no matter how good one man can be the facts I believe at least for Elmbrook Church are that His Kingdom is not of this world. Do we seek earthly permission to preach Christ crucified died and rose again to an unbelieving world? Is our power as a Church from the two American political parties? I say the power and the proof of his resurrection comes from his spirit indwelled in each individual believer as that power is lived in each individual life and when gathered together to prey for this dying world great things will happen.
To put things in the proper perspective as this world spins to destruction the Church is a massive rescue operation not to question or blame the evil of this world upon some government as this is a colossal waste of our time and resources as the big picture is to love one another unconditionally as a demonstration of his power.
What is great about America? We can preach the gospel of peace freely here and finance missions abroad as the spirit dictates. Politics? As who would divide us so? Is there slave or free or Republican or Democrat in his Kingdom? The Gospel I see.
And you had the whole Church prey that prayer above as it was powerful when we all preyed together as his Spirit filled the place with power.
I am more confidant than ever that Elmbrook Church will become bigger and greater than she ever has been in the past as love shall overcome…..
No worries
Nine
A Poem I wrote over a year a go called Government types…
“We have two types of Government growing together side by side
the first is cruel and corrupt and force its first tool
the second run by his spirit as he promised
run on love for the other
reconciliation and community
he said in parables the concept of tares and wheat
and that in the end the tares are burned
he said until I return labor in my field”
Bush 41 set a fine example as I watched that fine eulogy on youtube as was the best I ever did see….
Nine
forgot to add
poetry denighability
N