Gathering Prayer, Mark 13

Written in response to Mark 13:1-2, using elements of a prayer by Louise Gough.
For The 26th Week of Pentecost (Proper 28)

Loving God,
who summoned the world into being,
moulded the mountains,
bathed the earth in colour and light,
and breathed into us the Spirit of life,
we gather in your church, your temple,
to bring you our praise.

We worship you,
the God who first loved us,
made each of us unique,
and tends us with care.

We praise you
for revealing your love in Jesus,
Love which through dusty feet, faithful service,
wise words and caring hands broke down barriers–
and later through the cross and empty tomb –
turned despair to celebration, exclusion to inclusion,
and sadness and oppression
into liberation and laughter.

We praise you
that through the Spirit at work in the world,
everyone can access your love
and know joy and freedom,
the key to new life is held out to all.

Loving God,
forgive us when we construct barriers,
when we stifle your ever-creating Spirit,
your welcome and freedom,
in our lives or in the lives of others.

By your love,
make us new,
forgiven and loved.

Featured image: taken at Holy Trinity, Bradford on Avon, UK

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