Monday, March 29, 2021

Psalm 96: Praying for the Nations on Holy Monday

At HCKaty, we’ve been praying with the Psalms as we have interceded on behalf of others in the “Prayers of the People” on Sunday mornings all through Lent.  As we make our Holy Week journey, we’ll lift up portions of Jesus’ journey and engage in Interceding with Psalms.  This will be a lovely week of turning outward as we move toward Easter Sunday.

ScripturePsalm 96, John 12:12-15

Focus Verse:    Psalm 96:9-10
Worship the Lord in holy splendor. Let all the earth tremble before God. Tell all the nations, “The Lord reigns!”

Commentary: Holy Week begins as Jesus enters Jerusalem.  The people exalt Jesus, crying out "Hosanna, Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord—the King of Israel!”  It is an exciting way to begin a week that will take us deeply into sadness and grief.  

Psalm 96 begins, "Sing to the Lord a new Song" and we hear the Israelites singing and shouting and exalting God to all who hear.  This psalm invites us to widen our prayers to include the world, its leaders and its people! 

Reflection:  When you think of the world, what do you pray for?  Who do you feel like God is calling your to tell "the Lord reigns?"  How do you worship God with your prayers?

If music is a spiritual pathway for you, listen as Taya sings Hosanna during the Hillsong Tour of Israel, live on the Temple Mount.

Intercessory and Breath Prayer:  
Lord of Holy Splendor, strengthen those working for peace, that we may be guided along new paths of dialogue and understanding.  When we encounter people who don't look like us, help us remember you love them just as you love us. 

Breathing in … God of all People
Breathing out … Hear our Prayer

No comments:

Post a Comment