Forged

"May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face to shine upon us," Psalm 67:1.

Dear God, your generosity overflows favor on us! You bless us! You shine on us! All peoples everywhere can see your ways at work among your congregation. They see your saving power. Your church, scattered throughout the earth, gives witness to you, O God of Israel, God of Jesus, and God of his congregation! Please receive our praises; receive the praises of the whole earth! Receive the praises of all who recognize your justice and equity. You guide us - you guide all peoples! Earth itself produces abundance by your design - you bless us ... and you will bless us. (And how do we know that you will? because that's how you are!). Everybody, everybody in every corner of earth: Fear the Lord! Honor God!

We meet confidently with a brother or sister today, unafraid of foes or worldly troubles. Our God shines! And, together, the congregation forged by Christ, we thank our God.