Opening Prayer
03/30/2000
Reverend Daniel P. Coughlin
‘‘If today you hear God's voice, harden not your hearts.''
Speak to us, O Lord. Soothe our spirits. May Your voice quicken in us Your saving grace. When we are confused or disheartened, be attentive to us and give us purity of heart. When we are called upon to speak Your word of justice or defend the weak and the poor, strengthen us for Your purpose.
May the words of Your Holy Scriptures guide us in our search and enlighten our minds. May the beauty of the trees and their blossoms, the spring air, touch our creative souls and help us to bring forth a new Earth and a new vision to resolve difficulties and produce peace among Your people.
May the cry for bread or for water, the struggle for the prisoner's freedom and the needs of the very least in our midst be heard as Your own voice arresting our attention. For Your word is truth, and the truth will set us free.
Speak, Lord. This whole day Your servants are listening. Speak, Lord, and we will obey.
‘‘If today you hear God's voice, harden not your hearts.'' Amen.