A Psalm and Prayer of Praise

Whenever I'm not sure what to pray before God's people I simply turn to the Psalms and let one of the generations who came before me speak on my behalf. These prayers are like rivers that are still flowing down among us, and as we wade in and out (or merely observe from the riverbank) we can find refreshment and delight.

This prayer comes from Psalm 145; I have changed some of the order and play of the verses, but the spirit of the river of praise remains the same.

* * * * *

We lift your name on high, Mighty God!

We sing your praise today, may we sing your song into all eternity. You are magnificent before us; there are no boundaries to your greatness. Generation after generation stands in awe of your work: they have all told stories of your mighty acts. We know you as One who is slow to anger and rich in love, suffusing all things in your grace.

We give you thanks
for supporting those who are weary
for drawing near to all who call on you
for bringing harvest on the Earth in due season
for lavishing compassion on all you have made

May we speak of the glory of your kingdom.
May we make known to all people your mighty works and loving ways.
Today and all days we lift our voices in worship.

* * * * *