Strengthen Us to Wait

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These opening prayers, congregational prayer, and prayer for illumination focus on God's strength and steadfast love in the face of suffering and uncertainty. Suitable to use on the Wednesday of Holy Week.
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Lectionary: 
Revised Common Lectionary
Source: 
RCL at Vanderbilt
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Thematic Almighty God, Your name is glorified even in the anguish of your Son’s death. Grant us the courage to receive your anointed servant who embodies a wisdom and love that is foolishness to the world. empower us in witness so that all the world may recognize in the scandal of the cross the mystery of reconciliation. Amen. OR Faithful Midwife, as you delivered the Hebrews safely out of the long labor of slavery, so, morning by morning, you draw us forth into the new day. Surround us with a cloud of witnesses, and sustain us by your powerful word, that, in the night of loneliness and fear, we, being weary, may not lost heart but push toward the joy that is to come, laboring with Christ to give birth to your promised kingdom. Amen. OR Creator of the universe, you made the world in beauty, and restore all things in glory through the victory of Jesus Christ. We pray that, wherever your image is still disfigured by poverty, sickness, selfishness, war, and greed, the new creation in Jesus Christ may appear in justice, love, and peace, to the glory of your name. Amen. OR Christ our God, your love is poured out in death for our sakes. Hold us in your embrace as we wait for Easter’s dawn. Comfort us with the promise that no power on earth, not even death itself, can separate us from your love; and strengthen us to wait until you are revealed to us in all your risen glory. Amen. Intercessory Holy God, who call your people to sustain the weary and protect the oppressed. Uphold us in our concern and strengthen us, that we may not only speak our prayers but act on behalf of their fulfillment. Prayers of the People, concluding with: Most Holy One, grant that we may be counted as members of the great cloud of witnesses who live with justice and compassion, and reveal your divine glory before all people. Amen Scripture Troubled God, in every generation you call your people to contend against the brutality of sin and betrayal. Keep us steadfast even in our fear and uncertainty, that we may follow where Jesus has led the way. Amen.
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All Years Wednesday of Holy Week
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