Opening Prayer
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11/21/2025
Chaplain Margaret Grun Kibben
Holy Lord, we, too, want to be holy. As the Gospel song goes, we want to be set apart for You, a vessel tried and true.
But as we come before Your throne, we soon realize that our efforts often fall short. Our lives, our attitudes, and our behaviors are far from what anyone would deem holy.
For You have counseled us that holiness does not just mean perseverance and prayer or attempts to be tolerant with one another. Rather, You have commanded us to live in peace with one another without the continual strife or constant drama we perpetuate with those whom we perceive to be our enemies.
Forgive our bitter spirits, which threaten to poison the very people You have called us to serve. Prevent us from selling our birthright to righteousness when our own hunger for immediate satisfaction gets in the way.
You have said, ‘‘Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,'' that we may be faithful to the loving relationship You desire with each of us and all of us with each other. You have shown that when we allow ourselves to be vessels of Your unconditional love, then we receive the strength we need. Then our lives become a living and holy sacrifice to You.
Lord, we want to be holy. Set us apart for Your use on this day.
In Your redeeming name we pray. Amen.
Matthew 5:43–48
Hebrews 12:14–16