Saturday 4th April | Phil & Frances Harding
Readings
Reflection
In the first and last of our readings today we read of Jesus being our Shepherd. And what a Shepherd. The Shepherd who refreshes, who guides, who is with us even in the darkest of times. The Shepherd who comforts. The Shepherd who anoints us so our cup overflows. The Shepherd whose goodness and love follow us all the days of our life. The Shepherd who enables us to dwell in His house forever.
It is only This Shepherd, This Lord, this Jesus who is able to build this house. And why because He is the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for us. That great Shepherd of the sheep, who was dead and is now alive. The Shepherd who rescues and brings life. The Shepherd who equips us with everything good for doing his will.
A Shepherd who leads us from lament to praise. A Shepherd for this and all times.
Prayers
We thank you Father that you are our Good Shepherd who gives us everything we need. We ask you to care for the sick, afraid, grieving or alone. Shepherd them with your love.
In the midst of these troubled times be with us as Jesus, our Prince of Peace.
Calm our storms as we experience you as Emmanuel, God with us.
Give wisdom to our leaders, so they make right choices; so that fear may be banished.
May the comfort of your kindness be evident as you guide our steps, day by day.
Furnish a table of delights before us where you are honoured;
Furnish a table of delights where families are cared for; the isolated encouraged and blessed;
Furnish a table of delights where communities come together in new and creative ways, caring for one another as you care for us.
May your goodness and mercy so overflow our lives that we are your voice, hands and feet. May we bring glory to you and comfort to those around us. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Collect
Most merciful God,
Who by the death and resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ
Delivered and saved the world:
Grant that by faith in him who suffered on the cross
We may triumph in the power of his victory;
Through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord,
Who is alive and reigns with you,
In the unity of the Holy Spirit,
One God, now and for ever.
Amen.
