Loving God, our faithful father, you who created us in your image and likeness, and are willing to meet with us here, as market vendors, barbers, mothers and fathers.

 

We confess that in our sweat and toil, we often forget your presence.  In our struggles and weariness and frustration we are often lukewarm.  Forgive us.

 

Tabernacle with us.

We need you now more than ever.  Drained of strength and energy we come, that we might be re-energized and filled.

 

So come Lord. Come as the wind, blow your breath gently over us, blow the dust off our lives. Come as the fire, burn out all the hate and anger we feel towards those who oppress us and treat us unfairly.  Come as the water, wash the dirt of poverty off our stalls, the marketplace, and our lives.

 

Come as the dove – settle all matters concerning us.  Let peace reign.

 

May we encounter you today.  Ignite our hearts to worship and serve you.  Take your place and rule and reign in Jesus’s name as we leave our struggle at the foot of the cross and liberate us to worship you. Amen.

 

complied by Claudio Carvalhaes, professor of worship in New York City

 

_________________________

 

 

You have said, “Seek my face.”
My heart says to you,
    “Your face, Lord, do I seek.