With God as our Shepherd
we have everything
fullness of life
protection from evil
the depths of the deepest oceans
the heights of the highest mountains
show God’s glory
reveal part of the greatness of God
as shaper, maker, creator
of this world, this universe
and all within it
seen and unseen
what amazing wonder this is
that we know God the Father
through Jesus the Son
in this time of worship
may we listen to his voice, and his voice alone
may we discern it in our hymns of praise
our reflection on scripture
our prayers
listen to his voice
go where he leads
trusting the path laid before us
will take us to rich, green pastures
where quiet waters refresh our souls
and we may find rest
the deep rest for our souls only God can offer
Lord God
as we come before you today
help us to fear no evil
even as we walk through the darkest valley
even as our enemies would try to crowd you out
with their tantalising voices
drawing us from your path
the tantalising voices of possessions, land, wealth, buildings
the tantalising voices of gossip and hearsay
the tantalising voices of judging and dehumanising others
for these, and the many other ways we stray from your path
we fail to listen to Christ’s voice
we sin against you
we seek your forgiveness
humbly, we beg your pardon
May Christ’s love
cleanse your hearts of all your sins
and open your hearts and minds
to truly listen to his voice
guiding you onto the paths of righteousness
where life is offered in abundance
and sins are wiped clean
Amen