Prayers 3 18 2012
*Welcome!
*Continue to give to the AFC Offering for home missions
*Transformed by the Spirit event on Saturday, March 31, FBC, Alameda; I would like to see leaders from our church to attend; Pastor Peter and I will be there
*Lanna Coffee available for purchase next Sunday
*Membership Meeting next Sunday, March 25, 1:30; testimonies from candidates for baptism and church membership
*Pastoral Search Committee meeting this afternoon to evaluate candidates’ sermon samples
Prayer Concerns
*My cousin Melvin Ang’s memorial service is this Saturday, March 24, Episcopal Church of the Nativity, San Rafael, 11:00 AM; luncheon following; donations can be made to FCBC IMO of Melvin Ang
*Linda Jang’s sister, Laura who is recovering from a bicycle accident and for her family upon the death of her husband
Prayer of God’s People
Dear God, we praise you today for the mercies and graces that we receive that come only from you. For the good rest and the morning breakfast that we enjoy, we thank you for energy and strength to persevere. For the constant rains that we are having these past days while an inconvenience are still necessary for growth to the crops, water to quench the thirst, and for the cleansing of the body. For the fellowship of this church community that we can count on to be trustworthy, we thank you for caring and lifelong friendships to see us through some of the darkest days.
We pray for those who are suffering from ordeals and unimaginable pain that they will discover the hope to get well and the restoration of life worth living. We especially lift up Linda Jang’s sister Laura who is recovering from a motorcycle accident and we pray for her family in the loss of her husband. We pray for my cousin Melvin Ang’s widow Wende as the family and friends gather this Saturday to remember his life and the contributions he made in the world. We pray for…
For the vital ministry of this church planted in this small corner of San Francisco, we pray for vision and encouragement to continue the work of the Lord in the world. Be with the Search Committee this afternoon when they discuss the candidates whom they may want to interview. Bless the candidates who are planning for baptism and church membership when they share their testimonies next Sunday. Lead us to be open to your Spirit to transform us from what we have been so accustomed to doing to become more sensitive and aware of the unreached people who are seeking for truth and real purpose that can only be found in God through Jesus Christ. We pray for transformation especially when we may have sinned against you in order for us to become whole once again.
Forgiving God, we confess that when we are quick to judge that you plant in us a patience that is like yours. We ask for forgiveness when we are complaining and talking about people behind their backs that you may guide our thoughts and words to build people up as your daughters and sons as you intended. And when we are so angry at times over things that are perhaps beyond what we can do anything about, calm our hearts and teach us the loving gift of reconciliation that bring lasting peace and joy.
All these things, dear Jesus we come with a desire for renewal and that when we are focused on your will and not ours, your kingdom on this earth will be done. We pray in the name of Christ Jesus who taught us to pray together, “Our Father…”
Benediction
Let us stop feeding the invasive sins of impatience, complaining, and anger.
Fix your eyes on Jesus Christ on the cross.
May the Lord bless you and keep you.
May the Lord shines his face on you and be gracious to you.
May the Lord lift up the heavens and give you peace today and forevermore. Amen.