Simon’s Says
Some sermons are harder to write than others. Last week’s is a case in point: while I could not ignore the week’s national anxiety, neither did I want to give it undue place and thereby amplify a misleading narrative. I tried to stay grounded in scripture and let the lessons drive the sermon. There are times, I know, I do this better than others.
The email arrived too late for me to take in before Sunday’s service (it landed in my mailbox about 7:45 am), but I do appreciate the message. Last Sunday the Rev. Darrell Goodwin, Executive Minister of the UCC’s Southern New England Conference, sent out a prayer of encouragement to clergy, and he prayed what I needed to hear – even after the fact, it boosted my spirit. I thought I’d share it with you, as the exchanges between conference staff and local church pastors is not always evident to our congregations.
Prayer of Encouragement for those preaching today:
God of justice and truth,
in these turbulent days You have called Your servants to preach. When the world is shaken by violence, when death comes too soon,
give them the courage to declare Your Word without fear.
Clothe them with boldness, that they may speak life where death has tried to reign. Steady their hearts with hope, that they may point us toward the light no darkness can overcome.
Strengthen their voices with fire, that they may name the idols of our age and yet call forth healing, peace, and a vision of Your beloved community.
Anoint everyone who stands this Sunday,
that their preaching may not be timid, but prophetic; not despairing, but defiant with hope;
not captive to fear, but set free by Your Spirit.
In Jesus’ mighty name we pray. Amen.
Darrell sent this before I stood in the pulpit to preach, even though I didn’t see it until I was done. Whether in prospect or retrospect, I appreciated being prayed for that morning.
Here are the links to this Sunday’s bulletin and service: