Praying the Sermon on the Mount

Here’s a prayer of petition and commitment inspired by Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5).  It was written by Jamie Arpin-Ricci in his book The Cost of Community.  (See below for links.)

Praying the Sermon on the Mount
(inspired by Matthew 5-7)

Lord and Creator,
let us embrace the costly blessings which you desire for us,
blessings that confound the wisdom and strength of this world.

Teach us to be your agents of preservation in a world touched by death,
and beacons of hope in a world shrouded in darkness.

Transform us into your image through the crucible of the cross,
writing your mandates upon our hearts, made pure by you perfect love.

Embolden us to be your ambassadors,

Living as representatives of your holy kingdom,
stirring in us your love for others,
especially for those who would seek to destroy us because of you.

Make us decrease so that you might increase,
as a watching world sees you, not us.

Daily we declare that your priorities are ours,
even before our own needs and desires.

Every moment we live, we live for your glory—
the glory of a loving Father and a just King.

Free us of any distraction, craving or anxiety
that would keep us from fully following you.

For we acknowledge that everything we could possibly need
is yours to give us.
Remind us of our sinful brokenness and your gift of grace
as we encounter brokenness in others.

You are the answer to our every question.
You are the treasure that we desperately seek,
and it is you who invite us into your salvation,
as prodigals returning to the Father’s embrace.

Keep us upon your path of righteousness and justice,
bearing the good fruit of your Spirit,
for it is on you, Lord Jesus, that all hope is built,

For all of creation, now and forever more. Amen

~ written by Jamie Arpin-Ricci, in The Cost of Community by Jamie Arpin Ricci.  http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005UXKB3S   Posted on Godspace. http://godspace-msa.com/2012/09/28/prayers-for-the-journey-48/