Though I am mired in sin, yet still have mercy on me, O Father and Lord of my life. Capture my every thought and all the impulses of my being. Make me yours in every facet of my life, so that I might have peace and full redemption in every branch and twig and leaf … Continue reading Prayer Note #34 — Refreshment from the Suffocation of Sin
Tag: prayer
Pastor Note #38–A Prayer at the Closing of a Church
I was the second to the last installed pastor at Central Presbyterian Church in Columbus, Ohio. On November 20, 2011, the last service of worship was held in that 151 year old building by that congregation that was founded in 1839. I participated that service along with my successor and my predecessor pastors. I prayed … Continue reading Pastor Note #38–A Prayer at the Closing of a Church
Pastor Note #36–Beyond a Pentecost According to Robert’s Rules of Order
In 2012, two important Christian holy days occur in May – important Christian holy days that Presbyterian Christians have tended to be uncomfortable with. I’ll explain that statement, shall I? The two holy days are Ascension and Pentecost. First the easy part, I say these holy days take place in May this year, because these … Continue reading Pastor Note #36–Beyond a Pentecost According to Robert’s Rules of Order
Bible Note #14 — Luke 1:13: Of Prayer, Patience, and a Sovereign God
Luke 1:11-13 The archangel Gabriel says something strange to Zechariah here -- something I've never really recognized as strange until I just read this passage again for the two-hundred-eighty-third time. Gabriel tells Zechariah that his prayer has been heard and, as a result, Elizabeth is going to have a child. I say this is strange, … Continue reading Bible Note #14 — Luke 1:13: Of Prayer, Patience, and a Sovereign God
Pastor Note #34–A Pastoral Letter to Someone Who Had Suffered a Debilitating Accident
Dear "L," It was really good to see you at the church yesterday. It was very brave of you, because I could see that you were suffering a lot of pain. I don't understand why you have had to suffer so much in the last few months. I wish I did. I do know that … Continue reading Pastor Note #34–A Pastoral Letter to Someone Who Had Suffered a Debilitating Accident
Prayer Note #33 — A Pastor’s Sunday Morning Prayer
Lord, nothing important will happen here this morning unless you are present . Holy Spirit, we cannot worship unless you make us able to worship. Our attempts at worship will be counterfeit unless you inhabit our worship in purposefulness and power. I ask, on behalf of my people for your directing, empowering presence. Grant that … Continue reading Prayer Note #33 — A Pastor’s Sunday Morning Prayer
Prayer Note #32 — A Prayer for a Day of Fasting for Guidance
A Prayer for a Day of Fasting O Lord, you are my Lord. To you I say and an unconditional "Yes." To myself and the world and the devil, I say an unwavering "No." Grant me ears to hear you today. Grant me discernment beyond mere human wisdom. Grant me utter submission to your kingship … Continue reading Prayer Note #32 — A Prayer for a Day of Fasting for Guidance
Prayer Note #31 — For the Day’s Living and Working
My Lord, I want to devote everything I do today to your service to the advance of your kingdom. I don't want merely to go through the motions, to get to the end of the day having checked off everything on my "to do" list but having done it in my sleep with no thought … Continue reading Prayer Note #31 — For the Day’s Living and Working
Prayer Note #30 — On Depression
[from my prayer journal, January 9, 2009] I'm very tired this morning, Lord. I have been for most of the week. I've been back to swimming for exercise after a bit of a lay-off. So, I suppose the physical tiredness that I feel is partly to do with that. But, Lord, my tiredness seems to … Continue reading Prayer Note #30 — On Depression
Prayer Note #28 — Hear Us, O Lord — A Poem/Song
Hear us, O Lord, as we bring our prayers. We come to you with our needs and cares. Before your throne of grace and power, Transform the thorns into budding flowers. We wander far yet you're ever near. There is no place where you cannot hear. Our long-ing hearts look to you alone. In … Continue reading Prayer Note #28 — Hear Us, O Lord — A Poem/Song
Gary Chorpenning's Notebooks 