Scripture reading: Luke 11:1–4
A Plea for Liturgy
Take words with you and return to the Lord . . . (Hosea 14:2)
In the eighth century B.C. the prophet Hosea proclaimed to Israel that judgment was about to fall on the land because of her sinful ways. Return to the Lord, he pled. Perhaps destruction can be averted. But before approaching God, he added, prepare your speech: Take words with you (Hosea 14:2). It wasn’t enough to just take a few lambs for sacrifice; the only thing that really works with the Holy One is words. But what should one say to
God? What words are appropriate?
Historically, churches have employed liturgy to help those in the pew know what words to use in the presence of God. Primarily these are words of humble confession and heartfelt repentance. When used wrongly, liturgical worship can easily degenerate into mindless repetition of meaningless phrases. However, for the one who is sincerely seeking a personal relationship with the living God, knowing what to say can make all the difference. The Book of Common Prayer (first published in 1549 during the English Reformation) has for generations been a precious source of help to those looking for the right words to use in approaching God. Today, perhaps these ancient words will help you know what to say as you approach your God and King.
Prayer of Preparation: Almighty God, unto whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hid. Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of Your Holy Spirit that we may perfectly love you and worthily magnify your holy Name, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Invitation: You who do truly and earnestly repent of your sins, and are in love and charity with your neighbors, and intend to lead a new life, following the commandments of God, and walking from henceforth in his holy ways: draw near with faith and make your humble confession to Almighty God.
Prayer of Confession: Almighty God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, maker of all things, judge of all men: we acknowledge and bewail our manifold sins and wickedness which we from time to time most grievously have committed by thought, word, and deed against your divine majesty, provoking most justly your wrath and indignation against us. We do earnestly repent and are heartily sorry for these our misdoings; the remembrance of them is grievous unto us, the burden of them is intolerable. Have mercy upon us, have mercy upon us, most merciful Father; for your Son our Lord Jesus Christ’s sake. Forgive us all that is past and grant that we may ever hereafter serve and please you in newness of life, to the honor and glory of your Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
Forms and rituals do not produce worship,
nor does the disuse of forms and rituals. We can
use all the right techniques and methods, we can
have the best possible liturgy, but we have not
worshipped the Lord until Spirit touches Spirit.
—Richard Foster
point to ponder • Right words help create right realities; wrong words help create wrong realities.
prayer focus • Use today’s prayer to help usher you into the throne room of grace.