I think a lot about praying in public: particularly in services of worship. There is much to say on the subject, but today my thoughts are on communnion. Whether you call it the Eucharist, Communion, or the Lord’s Supper, it is probably my favorite part of worship together.
Here’s a short prayer of consecration I’ve used in the past. Like many of my prayers, it’s cobbled together from a handful of old sources, Scripture, and my own thoughts. This one draws on some old Puritans.
grace and peace – Andy
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Father God, today you graciously invite us to your table. You set before us a plate of simple fare: the bread and the cup. There are hungry people here, poor, tired, some weary, some heartsick, some longing, all in need of your grace.
We pray that you would take these elements and set them aside from their common use. By your grace, use them now for your purpose to share your own life and love with us.
Give us the eyes to see you present here by your Spirit. Help us grasp the height, breath and depth of your great love for us in the sacrifice of your son Jesus on the cross.
And as this bread and cup feeds our body, so may your Spirit feel our souls – until that day when we hunger and thirst no more because we sit down with you, Jesus, at your heavenly feast.
We pray this today in the light and strength of your name, our Risen Savior, Jesus Christ.
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