A Concord Pastor Comments

Monday Morning Offering: 4/27

noreply@blogger.com (Concord Pastor) — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 03:00:00 +0000

I love the image of the Good Shepherd - can't get enough of it! Ten years ago I wrote this Good Shepherd Monday Morning Offering and I believe I've posted it every year since. It has new meaning for me every year when I pray it and I trust that it might be the same in your heart and prayer...

With yesterday's gospel
still in my mind and heart, Lord,
I offer you this prayer:
   shepherd me
   through the ups and downs,
   joys and sorrows,
   temptations and graces

that come my way today

- and every day...

Shepherd me, O God,

from here to there,
from where I am

       to where I'm meant to be,
   from one moment to the next,
   from today into tomorrow,
   from my past into my future...

Shepherd me, O God,

from yesterday's problems

through today's dilemmas

to the peace your Spirit offers...

Shepherd me, O God,
   from memories that hold me back
       to a future I've yet to experience...

Shepherd me, O God,
   from my failings, sins and errors
       to the grace of a new beginning...

Shepherd me, O God,
   from fantasies and daydreams
       to a life that's authentic and certain...

Shepherd me, O God,

from selfish impatience

to endurance and docility...

Shepherd me, O God,

far from all my foolish ways

to the path where Wisdom beckons...

Shepherd me, O God,
   from selfishness and greed
       to a generous, giving spirit...

Shepherd me, O God,
   from arrogance and pride
       to humble self-surrender...

Shepherd me, O God,
   from the lies I've come to believe
       to the truth that sets me free...

Shepherd me, O God,
from all that's less than pure
to what's clear and clean and chaste...

Shepherd me, O God,

from my anger and resentments,

to understanding and forgiveness...

Shepherd me, O God,
   from my lazy habits
       to work that satisfies and serves...

Shepherd me, O God,
   from mindless wandering
       to the path you'd have me walk...

Shepherd me, O God,
   from flirting with temptation
       to doing what is right...

Shepherd me, O God,
   from prejudice and bias
       to understanding and acceptance...

Shepherd me, O God,
   from wasting what I have
       to sharing all that's mine...

Shepherd me, O God,
   from hopelessness and fear
       to confidence and trust in you...

Shepherd me, O God,
   from feeling sorry for myself
       to gratitude for all I have...

Shepherd me, O God,
   from doubts that cloud my thoughts
       to faith that clears my soul...

Shepherd me, O God,

from here to there,

from one moment to the next,

from today into tomorrow,

from my past into my future...

Shepherd me, O God,

beyond my wants,

beyond my fears,

from death into life...

Amen.

Shepherd Me, O God by Marty Haugen

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NIGHT PRAYER: Sunday 4/26

noreply@blogger.com (Concord Pastor) — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 23:28:27 +0000

On Sundays, Night Prayer takes its lead from some element from the day's liturgy. On the Fourth Sunday of Easter every year, the gospel speaks of Christ as our Good Shepherd, this year from John. Our prayer tonight is a reflection on a verse from Psalm 23, a dialog between the Lord and us, the sheep he shepherds...

Even when I walk through a dark valley,

I fear no harm for you are at my side,
your crook and your staff give me courage...
- Psalm 23

I pray...

Even when I walk through a dark valley...

Is that right, Lord?
Even in the darkness?

even when I can't see where I am?

or where I'm going?
when I can't find my way

- can't find you?

even when I'm not sure

how I ended up here in the first place?

Even when I walk through a valley of fear?

Is that right, Lord?

Even when I stumble through clouds of confusion?
when the path leads me deep

into lonely woods?

when I walk through a valley

so shadowed and deep

I lose sight of my trust and my hope?

when I'm scared and alone

when I'm lost and confused?

when I wonder and fear

that you've left my side...

Even then, Lord?

And the Lord answers...

Yes, even then! Especially then!

I'm with you always:

though you don't see my face

or hear my voice,

though you may not feel

my hand warming yours,

though you earnestly seek

but somehow can't find me...

Even then, I'm right by your side:

I'm the flicker of hope alive in your soul,

the glimmer of grace in your heart of hearts

the spark of the Spirit's fire and warmth

the torch that shines on your shadowed path

the light in the tunnel leading to peace...

Trust that I'm with you

though you can't find me,

trust in my presence,

my mercy and strength...

Trust in my light in the valley of darkness:

- trust in my light come into your heart,

the light that glistens in all of your tears

- trust in my light come into your soul:

a flame my Spirit will tend with care

- trust in my light come into your mind

to illumine your thoughts

with wisdom and grace

- trust in my light come into your life

to lead you and guide you

and bring you home...

I pray...

From my dark valley, Lord - hear my prayer:

my cry for your presence, your love and your care,

my plea for your healing and consolation,

my need for your light, your wisdom and warmth

my prayer that your joy overflow in my heart...

I trust you're with me, my gentle shepherd,

especially in times

when I'm lost and alone...

I trust you're there, right by my side

to calm my fears, settle my soul

and wipe every tear from my eyes...

Even tonight,

whatever my valley of darkness might be,

you are my shepherd, you are my friend,

your crook and your staff give me courage...

Protect me, Lord, while I'm awake

and watch over me while I sleep

that awake, I might keep watch with you

and asleep, rest in your peace...

Amen.

Psalm 23 by Bobby McFeerin,

sung by The Stellar Singers

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The Lord is my Shepherd, I have all I need,
He makes me lie down in green meadows,
Beside the still waters he will lead.

He restores my soul, he rights my wrongs,
He leads me in a path of good things,
And fills my heart with song.

Even though I walk through a dark and dreary land,
There is nothing that can shake me,
He has said he won't forsake me,
I'm in his hand.

He sets a table before me in the presence of my foe,
He anoints my head with oil,
And my cup overflows.

Surely, surely goodness and kindness will follow me,
All the days of my life,
And I will live in his house,
Forever, forever and ever.

Glory be to our Father, and Brother,
And to the Holy of Holies,
As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be,
Life, without end. Amen.

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Do you need some peaceful time today?

noreply@blogger.com (Concord Pastor) — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 13:51:20 +0000

Need a break? A little respite? A few peaceful moments?

On this Good Shepherd Sunday, spend some time with Sir John Rutter's setting of Psalm 23. This music never fails to heal my heart, settle my soul and lift my spirits... (If a video doesn't appear above, click here!)

The Lord is my shepherd,
Therefore can I lack nothing,
He shall feed me in a green pasture
And lead me forth beside the waters of comfort,

He shall convert my soul,
And bring me forth in the paths of righteousness,
For his name's sake,

Yea, though I walk through the
Valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
For thou art with me,
Thy rod and thy staff comfort me,

Thou shalt prepare a table before me
Against them that trouble me,
Thou hast anointed my head with oil,
And my cup shall be full,

But thy loving kindness and mercy
Shall follow me all the days of my life,
And I will dwell In the house of the Lord, forever.

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Pause for Prayer: SUNDAY 4/26

noreply@blogger.com (Concord Pastor) — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 03:26:06 +0000

Good Shepherd by Duncan Grant

Today, the Fourth Sunday of Easter,

is Good Shepherd Sunday...

Good Shepherd of us all,
I thank you today for all the good shepherds in my life
and for all the ways you've shepherded me
through their love, their watchful presence,
their devotion and protection...

I thank you for my parents, my first shepherds;
I thank you for their protection, for the shelter of their love,
and for all they sacrificed
to help me grow...

I thank you for other shepherds in my family
and for all my friends
who comfort and challenge me,
who dry my tears and make me laugh,
who walk faithfully close by my side...

I thank you for all the shepherds
who taught me in school,
who counseled and directed me,
who shaped me and helped me to become
the person I am today...

I thank you for shepherds
whose names I don't know, who stand in harm's way
'round my town and 'round the world,
standing guard all day long to keep me safe,
keeping vigil while I sleep without a worry...

I thank you Lord, for the shepherds who care

for the sick and dying sheep among us,
who bind up wounds,

who bring comfort to those in pain,
who speed the path to health
or ease the path to end of days...

I thank you for the shepherds you've called home,
especially those gone much too soon,
whose gentle shepherd's crook I miss,
whose presence still abides within my heart...

I thank you for the shepherds, Lord,
who remember me in prayer,

lifting up my name and needs to you;
who keep me in the sheepfold of your grace,

you, my gentle Shepherd,
Good Shepherd of us all...

Amen.

The Lord Is My Shepherd

by Stuart Townend

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I need constant supervision!

noreply@blogger.com (Concord Pastor) — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 03:00:00 +0000

This is Good Shepherd Sunday in the Church around the world - and a special day in the community where I celebrate mass: Good Shepherd Parish! At the beginning of mass I showed people my Good Shepherd tshirt - remarking that I most need the Good Shepherd's supervision - precisely when I'm thinking I don't need his supervision!

Here's a link to a video of my homily, based on John 10:1-10 and here's the text of my homily:

When I look back on my own childhood. I see that I often took my parents' love for granted. I figured they were supposed to let me - and they did! As any child might, I didn't like everything my parents told me to do. And even less, I didn't like many of the things they told me I shouldn't or couldn't do. But even then, at some place deep inside, I believed, I trusted I knew that they loved me.

But I didn't realize, as a child, was how much they loved him.

I can see now that they often gladly went without - so that I and my siblings could have what we needed and wanted. I can see now how they spent their lives for me. I know now that my mother and father would have, without a moment's hesitation, put themselves between me and harm's way - without a thought for their own safety or welfare.

One of the reasons I see so much love in my own past is that I see it now - in the lives of families around me - and I recognize that love as the kind and depth of love I knew as a child.

(Unfortunately, sadly, some children aren't loved like this. And sometimes I see that, too. And I pray that others in their lives (besides their parents) will love them as unconditionally as good parents love their sons and daughters.)

But this no strings attached, self-sacrificing love parents give - is the kind of love Jesus has for each of us. And of course, Jesus’ love for us comes with no strings attached. His love never takes a break, never falters, never fails, never ends. In the total surrender of his own life, Jesus put himself between us and harm's way when he laid down his life for us on the Cross. And that's the message of the good shepherd in today's gospel.

But we need to know a little bit about shepherds and sheepfolds - if we're gonna get that message. (The Pharisees didn't get in the gospel. Let's hope that we can do better than the Pharisees!)

A sheepfold is a large enclosure - sometimes a stone wall, sometimes made of bushes, planted to “hedge in” a large pen - where sheep are gathered to spend the night, protected from thieves who might come down and take the sheep away - or beasts of prey who might attack the sheep. Sheepfolds like this are still in use in the Middle East - and in the United Kingdom.

So, the shepherd leads the sheep into the fold at night - and out in the morning - through a simple opening in the wall or the hedge. But back in the day, in Jesus' time, there was no gate at the opening of the wall of the sheepfold. So once the sheep were safely gathered in at night, the shepherd would lie down on the ground, stretching his body across the opening so that the sheep could not stray out, and no thief or wolf could gain entrance, under the cover of darkness.

Now, let's listen again to the words of Jesus:

And he said,

"I am the gate for the sheep.

Whoever enters through me

will be saved,

and will come in and go out

and find pasture."

The shepherd, in the fields with his flock, becomes the sheepfold's gate, providing safe haven for the sheep and protecting them from harm.

Jesus, the shepherd - who loves us as a father and mother love their child - Jesus is not only WILLING to lay down his life for those he loves and keeps - he has indeed DONE that. Jesus has done that.

Perhaps the reason I may have missed the depths of my parents' love for me was that they provided so well for me, protected me so securely, that I never saw or knew the harm that was around me, that might befall me.

Perhaps as a child, I failed to see how much I was loved because I didn't see how much I needed to be loved, how much I needed to be protected.

Sometimes, I'm like that with the Lord's love, too. I don't see - or I refuse to see - that evil, like a thief, waits to rob me, even now, of what innocence I can still claim. Of what honesty and purity are still mine. Of the faithfulness and sincerity that have shaped and continue to shape the person I am.

I very much need the Lord's protective love - whether I recognize the dangers around me or not. And the less aware I am of my need for God's love - the more vulnerable am to what might harm me.

• Ours is not a culture in which the individual takes kindly or easily to being shepherded.

• We resist being told what to do, where we can or cannot go.

• Bumper stickers tell us to question authority.

• We like to be known as rugged individuals who can take care of ourselves.

But when we disdain what we dismiss as “herd mentality,” we might run the risk of separating ourselves from the flock, tended by Jesus, whom we celebrate today as our shepherd, our shep-HERD.

Perhaps some, or even all of that, explains why, in the last month or so, so many have criticized our shepherd, Pope Leo. Some seem surprised - taken aback - that Leo speaks and acts like – Jesus! That as pope, he stands as a shepherd whose heart's desire is to care for, to shelter, guide and guard the flock entrusted to his care.

Should we be surprised that Pope Leo comes at life from the perspective of the gospel? Actually carrying in his hand a shepherd's crook, a shepherd's staff? He walks around with that. We miss that.

Should we be surprised when Leo, like a wise shepherd, addresses the moral issues of right and wrong, life and death, war, and peace, freedom and justice?

That he critiques those structures and policies that threaten creation and humanity… that endanger the fold and the flock, entrusted to his care.

Should we be surprised when he speaks with a simple shepherd's wisdom -a wisdom that counters the folly of human pride?

Should we be surprised that Leo calls us to live by a measure of love, whose sign is the Cross of Jesus who laid down his life for his flock.

Our sanctuary here is like a sheepfold. And right now, a lot of the sheep have gathered here for prayer.

But the shepherd was not at the gate, not at the front door, he was not at the side door. Rather, our shepherd is right in the middle: his image on the cross, and his voice, the one we hear when he calls us, in the words of scripture.

Here at the altar, once again, Jesus lays down his life for us: now - in the prayer and sacrifice of this table, where we find our pasture, our sheepfold – where we are nourished by the life of our Shepherd.

The Good Shepherd loves you -and me - Loves all of us, his flock.

The Lord is our shepherd, and yes: we all need constant supervision!

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NIGHT PRAYER: Saturday 4/25

noreply@blogger.com (Concord Pastor) — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 01:13:54 +0000

Slow me down, Lord,

close my eyes
and open my heart to your presence...

You're here with me right now, Lord,
   wanting to spend time with me,
   ready to hear me out,
   waiting to whisper a word of peace...

Slow me down, Lord,

close my eyes
and open my heart to your presence...

You're here with me right now,
   wanting to strengthen me,
   ready to encourage me,
   waiting to console me...

Slow me down, Lord,

close my eyes
and open my heart to your presence...

You're here with me right now,
   waiting to calm me down,
   ready to lift me up,
   wanting to help me get through the night...

Slow me down, Lord,

close my eyes
and open my heart to your presence...

You're here with me right now,
   wanting to hold me,
   ready to guide me,
   waiting to lead me...

Slow me down, Lord,

close my eyes
and open my heart to your presence...

You're here with me right now:
   waiting, ready and wanting
      to help me be present to you;
   waiting, ready and wanting
       to hear and hold the prayer of my heart

waiting, ready and wanting
to stay by my side 'til a new day dawns...

Slow me down, Lord,

close my eyes
and open my heart to your presence...

Protect me, Lord, while I'm awake

and watch over me while I sleep

that awake, I might keep watch with you

and asleep, rest in your peace...

Amen.

Here's a very creative version of the very familiar

Psalm 23 - just right for this evening's prayer...

Slow Me Down, Lord by The Porter's Gate

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O good shepherd, would you teach me how to rest
I’m rushing on, will you make me to lie down
Will you build a fold by the waters that refresh
Will you call my name and lead me safely out?

From my anxious drive to labor on and on
From the restless grind that has put my mind to sleep
Will you call me back and gently slow me down
Will you show me now what to lose and what to keep

O Good Shepherd, O Good friend,
   slow me down, slow me down
O Good Shepherd, O Good friend,
   slow me down, slow me down

When my table’s bent with only greed and gold
And my grasping hands are afraid you won’t provide
Will you pour the wine that loosens up my hold
Set your table here with what truly satisfies

O Good Shepherd, O Good friend,
   slow me down, slow me down
O Good Shepherd, O Good friend,
   slow me down, slow me down

On the busy streets trying to make myself a name
If the work is yours, there is nothing I can claim
Will you lead me home to the pastures of your peace
And the house is yours, I’m sitting at your feet

O Good Shepherd, O Good friend,
   slow me down, slow me down
O Good Shepherd, O Good friend,
   slow me down, slow me down

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Pause for Prayer: SATURDAY 4/24

noreply@blogger.com (Concord Pastor) — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 04:10:28 +0000

Pick me up, Lord,
and dust me off:
   polish my tarnished spots...

Give me a kick,
just where I need it,
   to get me going again...

Open my eyes
to see what's before me:
   now, in the moment, today...

Jump start my will

to do the right thing

as fully as I may be able...

Breathe in my soul,

fill my heart to the brim

with the peace and joy of your Spirit...

Grant me the grace
of a new brand new day,

blessed by your wisdom and truth...

And stay with me, Lord,
hour by hour,
step by step by my side...

And when day is done
I pray for good rest
till you shake me awake in the morn...

Amen.

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What's a sheepfold?

noreply@blogger.com (Concord Pastor) — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 04:08:32 +0000

Image by Andrew Leaney at The Lakeland Fells

Every year, the gospel on the Fourth Sunday of Easter is about the Good Shepherd. This year's text is from John and mentions a sheepfold, like the one in the image above.

A sheepfold is a stonewalled enclosure for protecting a herd of sheep from wild animal attacks in the night. Such structures are still in use today in the Middle East and in the UK.

In Jesus' day the entrance to a sheepfold was simply a break in the wall - no gate. Once the sheep had been gathered in for the night, the shepherd would lie down and stretch his body across the entrance - thus becoming the gate to the fold.

Now let's listen to Jesus in this weekend's gospel:

"Amen, I say to you,

I am the gate for the sheep.

All who came before me are thieves and robbers,

but the sheep did not listen to them.

I am the gate.

Whoever enters through me will be saved

and will come in and go out and find pasture..."

Get it?

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NIGHT PRAYER: Friday 4/24

noreply@blogger.com (Concord Pastor) — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 21:00:00 +0000

On his recent trip to Africa, Pope Leo spoke these words (full text) in Equatorial Guinea:

No one is excluded from God’s love! Each of us, with our unique stories, mistakes and sufferings, remains precious in the Lord’s eyes. We can say this with certainty, because Jesus revealed it to us in every encounter, every gesture and every word. Even when he was arrested, condemned and put to death through no fault of his own, he loved us to the very end. In doing so, he showed us that he believed in the power of love to change even the hardest of hearts.

Reach out, Lord,

to soften the hardness in my heart,

to melt the frost that chills my heart,

to massage my stiff and rigid heart...

Reach deep, Lord,

to gently heal my wounded heart,

speak wisdom to my foolish heart,

breathe life into my listless heart...

Reach and reach again, Lord,

to mend my torn and tattered heart,

to feed my thirsty, hungry heart,

to fill my empty lonely heart

with mercy, love and peace...

Protect me, Lord, while I'm awake

and watch over me while I sleep

that awake, I might keep watch with you

and asleep rest in your peace...

Amen.

Change My Heart, O God by Eddie Espinosa

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Pause for Prayer: FRIDAY 424

noreply@blogger.com (Concord Pastor) — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 02:46:28 +0000

I believe, Lord, that your loving eye is upon me
every moment of every day,
morning, noon and night;
I believe that you never blink, nap or nod,
but rather, without fail, hold me in your sight...

I believe, Lord, that your ears are open to my prayer,
to every word and thought and dream of mine
- the good ones and the not so good;
I believe that nothing crosses my mind, stirs in my heart
- not a word leaves my lips -

without your knowing it and,
in your own good way and time,

       attending to it...

I believe, Lord, that your heart is open to mine: 24/7/365,
   that not a beat of my heart goes unnoticed by yours:
    that every flutter, murmur and skip of my heart
echoes in yours - and is lovingly heard...

I trust your attention to all of my needs, Lord,

even when I wonder and worry

that you've taken a break

or forgotten my name

or grown tired of all my prayers...

I trust your response to my worries and fears
- even when silence is the answer you give.
In your silence I trust that I'm not left alone,
that I'm patiently held in your mystery of love
'til your word, 'til your wisdom,
'til your breath whispers softly,
"I'm with you, you are not alone..."

I trust in your care when you answer my prayer:

"not now..." or "not yet..." or even just "no..."
It's then I pray for the patience to wait

to watch for the ways you'll help me get through,

get by and survive the stress of each day

and the loneliness of those long nights...

I trust that you see, Lord, and much more than I,
that your vision is keener than mine;
that you see all my troubles - just as they are -

discerning and sorting the small from the large
the real from the ones I imagine...

I trust you'll be with me today, O Lord:
that not for a moment will you leave my side,
that at every turn you'll be watching my step,

guarding and guiding my way...

I trust that each word, every thought, all my prayers
will make its way to the depths of your heart;
that even in silence your love will abide
in the mystery, the promise,

the gift your gift of your peace...

Amen.

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NIGHT PRAYER: Thursday 4/23

noreply@blogger.com (Concord Pastor) — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 23:46:48 +0000

I have my own craziness to deal with, Lord:

my 0wn fears and confusion,

my own inner turmoil

and the conflicts I experience

with the people around me...

I have more than enough unsurety in my life,

enough insecurity and unrest,

enough lack of predictability

about the day ahead of me

and what burdens it might bring...

And so I pray this night...

do anything, Lord, anything at all:

to quell the chaos,

to mute the hateful voice of pride,

to silence the shrieking horror of war

and restore us to that harmony, that order

in which we were created...

Anything you might do, Lord,

to make this world a little saner,

more calm, serene and peaceful:

anything at all would be blessing and a grace

most gratefully received...

Protect us, Lord while we're awake
and watch over us while we sleep
that awake, we might keep watch with you
and asleep, rest in your peace...

Amen.

Save Us, O Lord by Bob Dufford

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Save us O Lord, carry us back,

Rouse Your Power and come.

Rescue Your people; Show us Your face.

Bring us back

O Shepherd of Israel hear us,

Return and we shall be saved.

Arise , O Lord; Hear our cries, O Lord.

Bring us back.

How long will You hide from Your people?

We long to see Your face.

Give ear to us, Draw near to us,

Lord God of hosts!

Turn again: care for Your vine;

Protect what Your right hand has planted.

Your vineyards are trampled, Uprooted and burned,

Come to us Father of light.

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Pause for Prayer: THURSDAY 4/23

noreply@blogger.com (Concord Pastor) — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 06:46:30 +0000

In the heat of the moment, Lord,
   give me your grace...

On the spur of the moment,
   give me your grace...

At just the right moment,
   give me your grace...

When there's not a moment to spare, Lord,
   give me your grace...

At an opportune moment,
give me your grace...

When every moment counts, Lord,
   give me your grace...

In my weakest moment,
   give me your grace...

In an awkward moment,
   give me your grace...

In a moment of truth, Lord,
   give me your grace...

In my moment in the sun,

give me your grace...

In an untimely moment,
give me your grace...

In my senior moments,

give me your grace...

From one moment to the next, Lord,
give me your grace...

In just a moment, Lord,
give me your grace...

At any moment now, Lord,
give me your grace...

In the present moment, Lord

give me your grace,

your mercy, your love

and your peace...

Amen.

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NIGHT PRAYER: Wednesday 4/22

noreply@blogger.com (Concord Pastor) — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 15:55:55 +0000

We might pause after each of these tropes and name the individuals and situations in our own lives to whom the prayer applies...

Tonight, Lord, I lift up to you

all the people so busy

they don't know just what to do next...

And I lift up to you

any folks so bored

that they think they’re gonna go crazy…

I lift up to you

all the folks so long hurting

that they doubt they'll ever find peace...

I lift up to you

all the unemployed people

who wait for a job to support them…

I lift up to you

all the suffering and sick

   who cry for an end to their pain and distress…

I lift up to you
   all the people in prison
   who long to be free, to finally go home...

I lift up to you

all the folks in deep sadness

who yearn for their grief to be healed...

I lift up to you

the depressed and despairing

   who hunger for promise and hope…

I lift up to you
   the confused and confounded
   who long for your wisdom and truth...

I lift up to you

the abused and mistreated

who wait for their nightmare to end…

I lift up to you

those who stand in harm's way

for the sake of our freedom and peace...

I lift up to you

all those searching for faith,

who thirst for belief and conviction…

I lift up to you

all those falsely accused:

may they find the justice they seek...

I lift up to you

the poor and the hungry

who wait for a place at our tables...

I lift up to you

the forgotten and lonely

who long for companions and friends...

I lift up to you

the hooked and addicted

who work their recovery a day at a time…

I lift up to you

all the folks who are lost

and who fear they may never be found...

I lift up to you

those who need my assistance,

who patiently wait for my help...

I lift up to you

all who've suffered my faults:

please heal the hurt I have caused...

I lift up this world

torn by conflict and war:

give us peace that's strong and enduring...

I lift up to you, Lord,

myself and my needs

and ask that you answer my prayer...

I lift up to you

all my nights and my days:

be with me when I need you most...

Protect me, Lord, while I'm awake

and watch over me while I sleep

that awake, I might keep watch with you

and asleep, rest in your peace...

Amen.

God of All My Days
by Mark Hall and Jason Ingram

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I came to You with my heart in pieces
And found the God with healing in His hands
I turned to You, put everything behind me
And found the God who makes all things new
I looked to You drowning in my questions
And found the God who holds all wisdom
And I trusted You and stepped out on the ocean
You caught my hand among the waves
‘Cause You’re the God of all my days

Each step I take You make a way
And I will give You all my praise
My seasons change, You stay the same
You’re the God of all my days

I ran from You, I wandered in the shadows
And found a God who relentlessly pursues
I hid from You, haunted by my failure
And found the God whose grace still covers me
I fell on You when I was at my weakest
And found the God, the lifter of my head
And I’ve worshiped You and felt You right beside me
You’re the reason that I sing
‘Cause You’re the God of all my days

In my worry, God, You are my stillness
In my searching, God, You are my answers
In my blindness, God, You are my vision
In my bondage, God, You are my freedom
In my weakness, God, You are my power
You’re the reason that I sing
‘Cause You’re the God of all my days

In my blindness, God, You are my vision
In my bondage, God, You are my freedom
All my days

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Pause for Prayer: WEDNESDAY 4/22

noreply@blogger.com (Concord Pastor) — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 04:52:25 +0000

At one time or another in our lives, we hold on to a grudge, a resentment, some anger, disappointment, some hurt, a little jealousy, a bruised ego...

Sometimes we befriend what we cling to, even if it sours us and spoils our spirits, our relationships and perspective...

Letting go what we cling to can be very difficult but it's often just the healing we need...

The Lord is always there to help us let go of what sours us and to open up our hearts and let the healing in...

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NIGHT PRAYER: Tuesday 4/21

noreply@blogger.com (Concord Pastor) — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 22:22:00 +0000

Lord, let your love come upon me,

   let your love
       envelop me
       cover me
       overshadow me

guide me
fill me

        comfort me
       overwhelm me
        engulf me

complete me
anoint me

quiet me

caress me

support me

heal me
flood me

lead me

still me

hold me

strengthen me

melt me

lift me

       challenge me
        inebriate me
       infuse me

        mold me,
       bathe me
       surround me

seduce me

grip me

       calm me
       engage me
       embrace me
       feed me
       touch me...

Let your love come upon me
   from above and below
   from my left and my right
   from behind and before me

from every direction

from inside and out,
Lord, let your love come upon me...

Protect me, Lord, while I'm awake

and watch over me while I sleep

that awake, I might keep watch with you

and asleep, rest in your peace...

Amen.

Cover Me, Lord by Andrew Culverwell

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Cover me Lord
   with your presence
Cover me Lord
    with your righteousness
Cover me Lord
    with your Holiness
Lord Jesus
    cover me

I need your protection from danger and harm

shelter me safe in your strong loving arms

help me to see there's no cause for alarm,

Lord Jesus, cover me

Under your shadow I won't be afraid;

cover me, Lord, 'til the storm goes away

then, in the heat of a beautiful day,

Lord Jesus, cover me

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Pause for Prayer: TUESDAY 4/21

noreply@blogger.com (Concord Pastor) — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 04:57:00 +0000

Lord,

of all the things I might do today,

of all the things I hope to do today,

of all the things I could do today,

of all the things I intend to do today,

of all the things I need to do today,

of all the things I'm expected to do today

of all the things I plan to do today,

of all the things I can do today,

of all the things I should do today,

of all the things I'm scheduled to do today,

of all the things I want to do today,

of all the things I'd like to avoid doing today,

of all these things, what's the one thing, Lord

you ask of me - today?

Help me know what that is, Lord,

and then

give me the grace,

give me the courage,

give me the wisdom,

give me the strength,

give me the will, the smarts and the heart ,

give me the energy, get-up-and-go,

give me the nudge, the push and the shove

to do, with a willing and cheerful heart,

what you ask of me - today...

Amen.

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NIGHT PRAYER: Monday 4/20

noreply@blogger.com (Concord Pastor) — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 23:45:00 +0000

Just yesterday, Lord,

we heard the story of two disciples

making their way to Emmaus

on the afternoon on the very day

you rose up in glory from your tomb...

Just yesterday, Lord, I preached that story,

its meaning for us and its implications

for how we're to live from day to day

as we make our way from here to Emmaus,

from wherever we are to wherever we're bound...

How many times today, Lord,

did I meet you on my road?

How many times today, Lord,

did you quietly join me on my way

beginning this morning this afternoon

and here right now, as I bow my head

in grateful prayer as this day ends?

How many times did you ask me today:

What's on your mind, what's in your heart?

And did I hear you?

Did I hear your question, your interest, your care,

your desire to share in my story

and make my story one with yours?

How many times today, Lord,

did you break the bread of your presence,

y0ur word, your wisdom and truth

to feed my soul with your light and life?

How many times today, Lord,

did my heart burn within me,

aching for your company,

your grace and your mercy,

your presence at my side

as I made my way from dawn to dusk

on the road of this day's work and worry,

blessings and joys, toil and troubles,

gift and graces, ups and downs,

problems and peace

until now

when I'm ready to lay down in peace

with the hope you'll be with me

all through the night?

I can't count the times, Lord,

but this I know:

there wasn't a moment in all of this day

you left my side

or I slipped your mind

or fell from your loving arms

as I made my way from here to Emmaus,

from where I began

to where I am bound...

Stay with me, Lord Jesus,

stay by my side,

I pray...

Protect me, Lord, while I'm awake

and watch over me while I sleep

that awake, I might keep watch with you

and asleep rest in your peace...

Amen.

Stay With Me Lord by Ferdinand M. Bautista

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Stay with me, Lord, that I never forget You
Stay with me, Lord, because I am weak
Stay with me, Lord, for You are my life
Stay with me, Lord, for You are my light

O how I need You, my Jesus, in this night of exile
Stay with me, my Jesus, in the breaking of the bread
The Light which disperses all darkness
The force that sustains me,

the unique Joy of my heart

Stay with me, Lord, to show me Your will
Stay with me, Lord, that I may hear Your voice and follow you
Stay with me, Lord, for I desire to love You
Stay with me, Lord, if you wish mе to be faithful to You

O how I need You, my Jesus, in this night of exilе
Stay with me, my Jesus, in the breaking of the bread
The Light which disperses all darkness
The force that sustains me,

the unique Joy of my heart

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Monday Morning Offering: 4/20

noreply@blogger.com (Concord Pastor) — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 03:37:14 +0000

Image by George Mendoza

Good morning, good God!

A new week stretches ahead of me, Lord,

and I pray you'll walk with me day by day...

Be with me

right from the moment I rise,

through the night 'til I wake again...

Slow me down, Lord, when I go too fast

and help me do as well as I can

all that I need to accomplish...

Give me the wisdom, Lord, to lay aside

the things I don't need,

the cares I needn't carry,

the burdens I needn't bear...

Lighten the burdens that are, indeed, mine

and open me up to accept any help

that others may generously offer...

In the midst of worries this week may bring:

calm my fears,

lift my spirits,

and give me time for rest...

Keep me from yesterday's worries

and fear of what's yet to come;

keep me mindful

of the moment that's now at hand...

Open my eyes to my neighbor's burdens

and give me the grace and courage I need
to offer my hand, my arm and my shoulder;

my heart, my support and my comfort;

my smile, my time and my story,

my compassion and understanding...

Show me your face this week, O Lord:

open my ears to your voice,

my eyes to awesome beauty,

my heart to your flowing mercy,

my mind to your wisdom and counsel,

my weary limbs to your power and strength,

my mouth to give you glory and praise...

A new week stretches before me, Lord,

a week I offer to you and pray

you help me live it a day at a time,

in your good time,

in peace...

Accept my prayer this morning, Lord,

and all through the week ahead...

Amen.

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Homily for April 19

noreply@blogger.com (Concord Pastor) — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 01:46:00 +0000

Below you'll find the audio of my homily for this weekend, based on the gospel story of Jesus surprising two of his friends by appearing to them on Easter afternoon, as they're making their way home from Jerusalem back to Emmaus. Below the widget you'll find the text of my homily. (If a widget doesn't appear below, click here!) Finally, following the text of my homily, you'll find a prayer attributed to Saint Patrick which pairs well with today's gospel and which I offered the assembly for reflection after Communion.

Jesus drew near to the two disciples on the road to Emmaus but their eyes were PREVENTED from recognizing him…

But the scripture doesn’t tell us exactly what prevented these two disciples from recognizing the Risen Jesus at their side. Was it something about him? Or was it something in them?

Certainly their minds and hearts, their thoughts and emotions, were consumed with all that happened in the last few days, all that had been reported to them: the arrest of Jesus by the Roman guards, his appearance before Pontius Pilate, the governor, the suffering he endured, his death on a Cross and his burial and then the amazing report from the women who had visited the tomb that morning - that Jesus had risen from the dead!

And now, the risen Jesus is walking with these two disciples - but their eyes were prevented from recognizing him.

Were they so preoccupied, so overwhelmed by grief and confusion that they didn’t recognize their old friend?

Did God - of his own design and purpose - choose to let them walk in the mystery, in the darkness - just a little longer?

Or was it simply that they never expected to see Jesus again - even though they’d heard the report that he had risen?

Here’s a fun fact: you and I have heard that same report. Haven’t we? The report that Jesus who was crucified and buried - rose from the dead. We’ve been told exactly what these two disciples on the road to Emmaus had been told - and yet we, too, often fail to recognize him even when he’s walking right by our side.

What prevents you and me from seeing Jesus? What prevents OUR eyes from recognizing him?

Certainly there are times when my problems and my worries and fears consume so that I might miss Jesus at my side -even as I pray for him to be there!

Or perhaps it’s anger or hurt or disappointment that blur my vision or even blind me such that I fail to recognize Jesus as he draws close to me with peace and healing and hope.

Or it could be that I just don’t pay much attention to the Lord, that I don’t look for him every day in prayer, that I don’t try to keep my heart - and eyes and ears open for his presence? open to him walking at my side?

There are so many things in my life that might prevent my eyes from recognizing Jesus, things like:

• my prejudices - the ones I don’t admit to others, and especially, the ones I find difficult to admit to myself;

• or my stubbornness might prevent me from listening to Jesus: my resistance to looking at things in a new way; my refusal to change my mind – in spite of what I see, what I hear, in spite of what’s reported to me by reliable witnesses;

• or my politics might prevent me from seeing Jesus insofar as that stance trains my vision to see some things - but not others;

• or perhaps it might be my unwillingness to even desire to face the reality of Jesus in my life AND the change of heart it would take for me to see him in people I don’t like or don’t love; and welcome him – even at the expense to my own comfort.

• or I might blind myself to Jesus at my side because to acknowledge his presence, would require me to change my thoughts and my ways - so significantly - that others may think me impractical, foolish or crazy, on account of what I claim to see, to believe and hold as truth.

• To truly recognize Jesus at my side and choose to walk with him will change and shape my politics and my preferences, the decisions and choices I make, the stands I take, and whom I recognize and name as brother, sister, family and neighbor - and how I welcome them into my life and share with them what I have.

There are so many things, so many situations, so many reasons that prevent our eyes from recognizing, from seeing Jesus - right at our side. But the truth is: the Risen Christ never leaves my side - or yours. There’s not a step we take that the Lord doesn’t walk that step with us.

There’s not a moment of any day or night when he’s not right beside us - behind us - and just ahead of us.

But still, we fail to see him.

The risen Jesus asked the disciples on the road to Emmaus: “What are you discussing? What’s on your mind? What’s in your heart this morning?”

He asks us the same question. He wants to know our story - and often enough our story, like that of the two disciples - is a story of faith, disappointment, confusion and hope.

Jesus wants to be part of our story - on our good days and bad days, through all our ups and downs, in all our joys and sorrows.

• Is there anything this morning in my story, in your story, that prevents our eyes from recognizing Jesus - walking by our side?

• How long has it been since I’ve prayed? since I’ve told the Lord my story - and asked him to be part of it? How long has it been since I’ve asked the Lord, as did the two disciples in the story, how long has it been since I’ve asked Jesus, “Please don’t leave - stay with me - and be the Lord of my life!”

It’s only when the two disciples break bread with Jesus that their eyes are opened and they recognize Jesus.

Well – guess what! We’re here this morning to do just that! We are here to share in the breaking of bread as Jesus told us to do at his last supper on the night before he died.

Being here on the Lord’s Day is like walking the road to Emmaus. Even if, in the past week, our eyes have been prevented our hearts have failed to recognize Jesus by our side here at the Lord’s Table, at the end of one week and the beginning of another, the Lord draws near and reveals and shares himself with us in the breaking of the Bread.

Every time we celebrate the Eucharist we break and share the Bread of Life
and in receiving Communion we’re invited to recognize Jesus who gives himself to us this morning, as once he did on the Cross, so now in the sacrifice and sacrament of this altar.

He gives himself to us in this way – precisely – to open the eyes of our hearts to the wisdom and challenge of his word, that his truth might change our lives that we might begin to break ourselves open, like loaves of bread, to welcome and feed our neighbor, our brothers and sisters in Christ: whomever we might meet and wherever we might meet them on the road to Emmaus.

While preparing this homily I thought of a prayer attributed to St. Patrick. It’s sometimes called the LORICA, which means armor, and more specifically a hard-shelled casing protecting the chest - in contemporary terms - a kind of spiritual, bullet-proof vest.

I share this prayer hoping that its wisdom will open our eyes and help us recognize Jesus – walking by our side…

Prayer after Communion

(from the Lorica of Saint Patrick)

I arise today,

through God’s strength to pilot me:

God’s eye to look before me,

God’s wisdom to guide me,

God’s way to lie before me,

God’s shield to protect me,

from all who shall wish me ill

afar and anear, alone and in a multitude,

God’s shield to protect me ,

against every cruel merciless power,

that may oppose my body and soul.

Christ with me,

Christ before me,

Christ behind me,

Christ in me

Christ beneath me,

Christ above me

Christ on my right,

Christ on my left

Christ when I lie down,

Christ when I sit down

Christ when I arise,

Christ to shield me,

Christ in the heart

of everyone who thinks of me

Christ in the mouth

of everyone who speaks of me.

Amen.

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NIGHT PRAYER: Sunday 4/18

noreply@blogger.com (Concord Pastor) — Sun, 19 Apr 2026 21:00:00 +0000

On Sundays, Night Prayer will focus on an element from the day's celebration of Mass. Today's scriptures didn't immediately suggest a particular direction for prayer but the gospel includes the two disciples to whom Jesus appeared on the road to Emmaus. This is the closest to that story we'll come on a Sunday in this year's course of Easter readings. The previous link brings you to today's gospel, this post includes the text of the Emmaus story.

That very day, the first day of the week,
two of Jesus' disciples were going to a village called Emmaus,

seven miles from Jerusalem...

Like the two disciples, Lord,

my every day and every week,

the course of my whole life,

is one long series of

comings and goings,

tos and fros,

from here to there and back again,

all the time

searching

for a quiet, gentle time and place

to stop and take a breath,

to pause, to rest

and be at peace

with you...

And they were conversing

about all the things that had occurred.

And it happened that while they were conversing and debating,
Jesus himself drew near and walked with them,
but their eyes were prevented from recognizing him...

Oh, how often, Lord, do I miss you?

How often am I too busy to look for you?

How often do I miss your presence at my side?

How often do I ignore you

or even pretend you're not there

even though I know

you're living in my heart?

He asked them,
"What are you discussing as you walk along?"
They stopped, looking downcast.
One of them, named Cleopas, said to him in reply,
"Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem
who does not know of the things
that have taken place there in these days?"

How often, Lord,

do you in your compassion and kindness

ask what's on my mind and in my heart

though you know so much better than I

everything that passes through thoughts

and through my soul,

listening patiently while I, like a child,

pour out my sorrows and my hurt,

seeking healing and comfort

from you who know my story

so fully and so well...

As they approached the village to which they were going,

Jesus gave the impression that he was going on farther.
But they urged him, "Stay with us,
for it is nearly evening and the day is almost over."
So he went in to stay with them.

Even when I fear you've drifted off, Lord,

even when I search but cannot find you,

even and especially then

do you stay right by my side

and make your home within my heart

through the heat of day to sunset

and then all through the night...

And it happened that,

while he was with them at table,
he took bread, said the blessing,
broke it, and gave it to them.
With that their eyes were opened and they recognized him,
but he vanished from their sight.
Then they said to each other,
"Were not our hearts burning within us
while he spoke to us on the way?"

When I cannot find you,

when you've vanished from my sight,

then open the eyes of my faith, Lord,

and open my heart and soul,

my mind and my thoughts,

my spirit and my imagination!

Open the whole of me

to the whole of you

in all the ways you join me

on the many paths I walk.

Let your Spirit's wisdom burn

in your every whispered word

as you feed my deepest hunger

in the breaking of your bread...

Then the two recounted
what had taken place on the way
and how he was made known to them

in the breaking of bread.

I'm at the end of my day, Lord,

it's time to find a quiet place

to rest and find some peace,

to remember that you're right by my side

and to listen for your gentle voice

and hear the healing word you speak

from your heart to my own...

Protect me, Lord, while I'm awake

and watch over me while I sleep

that awake, I might keep watch with you

and asleep, rest in your peace...

Amen.

On the Journey to Emmaus by Marty Haugen

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On the journey to Emmaus with our hearts cold as stone-
the One who would save us had left us alone.
Then a stranger walks with us and, to our surprise,
he opens our stories and he opens our eyes.

And our hearts burned within us as we talked on the way,
how all that was promised was ours on that day.
So we begged him, 'Stay with us and grant us your word.'
We welcomed the stranger and we welcomed the Lord.

And that evening at the table as he blessed and broke bread,
we saw it was Jesus aris'n from the dead;
Though he vanished before us we knew he was near -
the life in our dying and the hope in our fear.

On the journey to Emmaus, in our stories and feast,
with Jesus we claim that the greatest is least:
and his words burn within us - let none be ignored -
who welcomes the stranger shall welcome the Lord.

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Pause for Prayer: SUNDAY 4/19

noreply@blogger.com (Concord Pastor) — Sun, 19 Apr 2026 02:24:00 +0000

Every day, Lord - every day -
you give me all the help I'll need
   to accomplish whatever I need to do,
   to speak the words I need to say,
   to get to wherever I need to go,
   to assist whomever needs a hand,
   to stop the things I need to end,
   to begin the things I need to try,

to pray whatever's in my heart,

to do what's good,

to love what's just,

and to walk, humbly,

by your side...

Open my mind, my heart and my soul
to the grace and strength you'll offer me

for this day, Lord, and through the night

especially whenever, wherever and how
I may need your help the most...

Amen.

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NIGHT PRAYER: Saturday 4/18

noreply@blogger.com (Concord Pastor) — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 20:46:00 +0000

My cyber friend, Alden Solovy, wrote this beautiful prayer in 2014... sadly, it's still relevant 12 years later. As we pray Alden's words tonight, I know our hearts turn as well to the children of Ukraine, Russia, Iran - and all those places in the world where children are the most innocent victims of war...

Dear Children,
What can we say to you in times of war?
What can we say when you run for shelter, not for joy,
When you hide, not to seek, but huddle in fear?
No, it is not a game when you
Cry tears of dread in the night.

O grief,
O war and terror,
You have stolen our children.
You have stolen our rest.
And now you wish to steal our hope
In tomorrow.

Children of Gaza and Israel,
We pray for you to find each other,
In laughter and friendship,
Before someone teaches you
Anger and hatred,
While you are still pure with
Curiosity and wonder.

Children of Israel and Gaza,
We pray for you to find comfort
In the cradle of your mothers’ arms,
In the bosom of quiet and peace,
Without rocket or mortar to break
The gentle stillness of the air,
The lovely silence of the night.

One God,
Maker of All,
Is this too much to ask?
Is this too much to dream?
That one day all children of the world
Will run with glee toward one another,
Will hold hands together in delight,
To skip and twirl and dance
To the rhythms of peace?

Protect us, Lord while we're awake

and watch over us while we sleep

that awake, we might keep watch with you

and asleep, rest in your peace...

Amen.

Tonight's song is as beautiful as it is simple...

Peace for the Children

by Doreen Lankshear-Smith

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Peace for the children, peace, peace,

Peace for the children we pray.

Following the path of One of peace,

we work for healing, we work for peace;

peace for the children today.

Peace for all people...

Peace in our families...

Peace for the nations...

Dona nobis pacem

Give us peace

Peace for all creatures...

Peace for our planet...

Peace in the cosmos...

We pray... for peace...

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Pause for Prayer: SATURDAY 4/18

noreply@blogger.com (Concord Pastor) — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 05:38:00 +0000

Photo by CP

While philosophers and theologians

offer heady proof for the existence of God,

my proof of your being, Lord,

is quite simple and humble...

April's flowering trees

are proof enough for me

that you are, that you exist

in every single blossom,
a witness of your nature,

eternal and divine...

You bring all trees back to life each spring,
their barren branches dressed in shades of green
lavish, dense, lush
but with extravagant divinity
you choose some, not all,
and adorn their leafy arms

with blossoms white and gold,

lilac and blood red...

And so much other evidence

to prove you are, you're here;

artichokes and full moons; a baby's reaching hand;

every kind of music; understanding and compassion;

long and loving hugs; imagination's endless scope;

Jesus and his gospel; the gift of human language;

wine and cheese and bread;

faith that's prayed and shared;

hope in hopeless moments;

unexpected friendship,

mercy undeserved;

the written, printed word;

a passion for the truth;

bare skin warmed by sunlight;

intuition, thoughts and hunches;

butterscotch and chocolate;

selfless love (no strings attached);

gentleness and kindness;

healing of all kinds

and sweet memories of the past,

of springtimes now long gone

filled with flowering trees in April

- just to name a few...

All these, my humble, simple proofs

of your being and your presence

in my everyday existence:

yes, you are, O Lord - for sure

and I, my God am yours...

Amen.

Perhaps you'd like to reflect and add some of your own proofs or the existence of God in the world, in your life... This music might help you do that...

Spring by Herman Beeftink

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NIGHT PRAYER: Friday 4/17

noreply@blogger.com (Concord Pastor) — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 21:00:00 +0000

(For those who will read this and worry:

my health is very good - thank God!)

This is the day the Lord has made...

Today's the first day of the rest of my life...

One day at a time...

These sayings are valuable on every day, Lord,

but especially for me, especially today,

my birthday, my 79th...

Today these words are unusually keen:

filled with meaning,

solemn and joyful,

poignant, mysterious,

amazing and graced...

For decades, Lord, the years slipped by so quickly

but now's the time when each day counts,

when every sunrise comes as gift

and every night's a time to pray

in thanks for all the life I've known,

in hope for all that's yet to be...

My supply of days will have its end

though I pray much more's in store for me:

time to enjoy whatever you've planned,

to seek your pardon for wrongs I've done,

to deepen my faith in your love for me,

to grow in your wisdom, more and more

and to do what I might

to share the peace you've shared with me

through decades of my life...

79 years, Lord - and I'm grateful for every one!

I give you thanks for the joy I've known

and for your healing in times of grief...

I praise you, Lord, for all your blessings

and for sustaining me in times of need...

I thank you, Lord,

for getting me through all the troubles

I thought I couldn't, wouldn't survive...

And I pray tonight for many more days

- for weeks and months and years -

to seek and find and know your love:

a day at a time, each day a gift,

each day the first of the rest of my life...

Protect me, Lord, while I'm awake

and watch over me while I sleep

that awake, I might keep watch with you

and asleep, rest in your peace...

Amen.

Thank You For This Day by Billy Causey

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Thank you for this day; thank you for this time.

Thank you for this moment in my life; I give you thanks.

Teach me how to live; teach me how to love you more.

Yesterday is gone, tomorrow's not yet come; thank you for today.

Thank you for this day, thank you for this time.

Thank you for this moment in our lives; we give you thanks.

Teach us how to live; teach us how to love you more.

Yesterday is gone, tomorrow's not yet come; thank you for today.

Thank you for today; thank you for this time

thank you for your presence in our lives; we give you praise

Teach us how to live; teach us how to love you more.

Yesterday is gone, tomorrow's not yet come; thank you for today.

Yesterday is gone, tomorrow's not yet come;

thank you for today. thank you for today.

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Pause for Prayer: FRIDAY 4/17

noreply@blogger.com (Concord Pastor) — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 04:58:00 +0000

My AI baker counts 79 candles on this cake!

Today's my birthday and a few years ago a dear friend sent me an email including the words in green below which I adapted and made part of a prayer I wrote at the time.

O God, who brought all things into being, today's the anniversary of my birth, the day you beckoned me to enter this beautiful world, the work of your hands...

When I try to downplay my birthday, Lord, remind me that it's the anniversary

of your calling me out of my mother's womb to the life you had in store for me. And that makes this a holy day - not because of me, Lord - but on account of what you did for me: you gave me the gift of my life, conceived of my dear parents' love; you gave me a lifetime's span to grow in grace and love of you; you gave me all these years to find you, to know you, to follow you and to share the many blessings you've given me...

To mark and honor this day, Lord, I ask for the grace to humbly acknowledge the meaning you've given my existence, something I too often take for granted...

Help me see, Lord, all the ways you've shaped me, touched me, blessed and healed me - and - all the ways you've shaped, touched, blessed and healed others through my words and deeds and the grace of your Spirit...

Help me see, Lord, how you've used my weakness to support and strengthen others;

how in my foolishness your wisdom still shone bright; how even through my sinfulness you revealed your heart of mercy; and how through my stumbling efforts

you worked wonders with your grace...

Light my heart and will on fire, Lord, that I might see that I inhabit this earth for a reason - and that reason is your love...

You created me for a reason, Lord... for a purpose... for your plan... for a part to play in tending to your people's hearts and souls...

Thank you, Lord, for the gift of my life; for the gift of all who walk with me; for gift of these 79 fleeting years - and for keeping your promise to be ever at my side, night and day, now and ever more...

Amen.

Thank You For My Life by Ed Tossing

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