Thoughts for the Day

Now may the God of peace, who brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, make you complete in everything good so that you may do his will, working among us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory for ever and ever. Amen.

(Lectionary, New Revised Standard Version)

Thoughts

The letter to the Hebrews closes with the most glorious prayer (last paragraph above) which clergy often use at the end of a Service. Since I started my ministry 40-odd years ago I have often spent time each year looking for special prayers to close an act of worship, especially at times like Christmas and Easter. This prayer, with the words of the Blessing or the Grace afterwards is a wonderful way to close worship.

This particular prayer has so much 'theology' (we can all do theology folks!), just look at the first four phrases:

1. God is the God of peace - when we set our hearts on Him, He brings peace.
2. God the Father's will brought Jesus back to life - He offers us life as well.
3. Jesus is the Good Shepherd - He leads us and gave His life for us, His sheep.
4. Jesus brought in the New Covenant - and we can be reunited with God.

These phrases lead on to the wish that we will then obey God and with the help of Jesus live a life that is pleasing to God. We must assume that this will occur with the help of the Holy Spirit.

May the Father’s hand
keep you from stumbling,
the footprints of Jesus
give you confidence to follow,
and the fire of the Spirit
keep you warm and safe
in your walk with God this day.
Amen.*

* Unknown author