Loving Heavenly Father
giver and maker of life
breath bestower into all being, into all creation
you care deeply and passionately for your cosmos
the flora and fauna
the plants and animals
the stars and galaxies
all is good in your sight.
We are privileged you set us, us mere humans, at the pinnacle of that creation.
Set us there to tend it, to care for it.
Set us there, so you could be our Father God
Set us there so we could know you, could love you
because you first loved us
we are honoured we can have this relationship with you,
one you do not impose on us,
one where you welcome us with open arms
as we gather here, to worship together
as a fellowship of your church, drawn together in and through our shared faith in you
God of all care
Embrace us, hold us, be there for us
in this time together, as we offer our praise, our prayer, as we mediate on your word
that we may deepen our relationship with you
that we may love you more
Cherishing Lord
we know your deepest desire for us is for us to cease our wanderings, stop our rebellion and return to you fully
our individualistic streak wants to step out on our own, thinking we can do what needs done in our lives, in our communities, in our world
without your help, without your guidance, without your constant presence with us
Nevertheless, you are patient with us, you give us freedom to make these mistakes, and when we return to you, you run to embrace us, and reassure us we are forgiven time and time again,
through your son, Jesus Christ, our Lord
Who taught us to pray together saying: