Prayers 9 29 2013
*Welcome
*Reception Ministry Training, 1:30-3:00, Meeting new friends and sharing one’s faith, Fellowship Hall
*Membership Meeting next Sunday, Oct. 6, 1:30 to receive the Proposed Budget for 2014 from the Finance Committee; a copy is posted in the vestibule for your review
*Redwood Glen’s 55th Anniversary Banquet & Campaign Launch, this Saturday, Oct. 5th, 5:00, Santa Clara FBC; see Joel Jang for more information or tickets
*Inquirers Class begins next Sunday, Oct. 6th, 9:00 in my office
*Lanna Coffee for purchase next Sunday before 11:20 service
Prayer Concerns
*Senior Retreat this week
*Eugene Louis passed unexpectedly after a cardiac arrest on Sept. 18th, no plans have been received yet; keep his wife Betty in your prayers
*Walter Tom—ongoing recovery
Prayer of God’s People
Dear God, dwell with us this day that we might grow in compassion for those who have little or nothing, and that we might grow weary of worldly possessions that do not last. Speak to us at this time of prayer so that we may know your love that abides and that your will is done on earth as it is in heaven.
In times of trial and sadness, we pray for those who are in need of good news. Be present with Betty Louis as she and her family grieve over the sudden passing of Eugene Louis who was always bringing us a smile on our faces when he sends a picture of God’s beautiful creation. We thank you for his life well lived. Continue to be with Walter Tom as he heals and recovers from his serious car accident. Grant him patience and encouragement during these long days and bless Elaine and their family during this time of improving health. Bless…
Lord, continue to strengthen the life and ministry of this church as we bravely share the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the world. Be with the Senior Retreat this week as these friends continue to serve as sages and guides to future generations. Teach us to become more welcoming and sharing the faith with all visitors and newcomers when we learn more about the new Reception Ministry to be launch today. Open our eyes and stretch our imaginations as we prepare for 2014 when we review and understand the church budget for next year.
Lord, help us to not have big regrets when we have opportunities but decided not to take them, when we have a chance to help someone in need but decided to look away, when we could have spent more time with our family and particularly our children but became so consumed with work that time just passed by, when we could have been genuine about our true selves but ended up compromising what our convictions are just to follow the crowd or out of convenience. Forgive us, dear God because your grace is bigger than our regrets. It’s greater than our wrong choices, our failings, our mishaps. You never look upon us with regret. You see us as we are and love us in it all. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ who have shown us the way to everlasting life and who taught us to pray together, “Our Father…”
Benediction
Take hold of the life that is real life.
Live your life that is according to the will of God.
Laugh with joy of God that dwells richly with us.
Go into this world with no regrets for God loves you always.
Amen.