As sheep are kept safe in the fields
so we are safe in our homes
as we approach the throne of grace
as we long to hear the voice of the Master
Christ Jesus
who, when he calls, we listen, for it is a voice we know and trust
Christ Jesus
help us to hear your voice this day
to hear it above the distractions of phones and social media
to hear it when we are unable to settle, to focus, to concentrate
to hear it above the eerie silence of quiet streets and empty houses
to hear it above the cacophony of houses filled with people, not used to being at home together
[pause]
As your flock, Jesus
we are scattered
but joined together through the power of the Holy Spirit joining us to one another
and to all our siblings in the worldwide church
[pause]
Enter our hearts and minds this day
allow us to worship you in spirit and in truth
to know we are cared for and loved
by the Lord
who is our Shepherd
[pause]
Shepherding One
as your flock, we know there are times where we have gone astray
we’ve failed to listen to your voice
we’ve seen the grass is greener on the other side of the enclosure
and, in so doing, have sinned against you, others and the earth
in humility, we ask for your forgiveness
knowing you seek us out and will gather us back into the fold
as your flock
Amen