Monday, September 19
Amos 6:1a, 4-7
The prophet Amos announces very clearly God’s concern for justice. In this passage, he announces that the wealthy will be the first to go into exile because they do not share their wealth with the poor.
Prayer: All that we have is from you, O God. Stir up concern within our hearts for the poor and hungry. Show us the path to sharing our gifts with others who are in need. In the name of Christ, our Savior. Amen.
Tuesday, September 20
Psalm 146
The Psalmist announces God’s love toward those who put their trust in God and warns us of what will happen if we choose another path.
Prayer: We sing your praises, O God, because you care for and about us. Stir up your Holy Spirit in us to care for and about those who are oppressed. Use us to set them free of whatever the oppression is. In the name of Christ, our Savior. Amen.
Wednesday, September 21
1 Timothy 6:6-19
Paul clearly states in this passage, which is part of his letter to Timothy, that money is not what is evil, but rather the love and pursuit of wealth. He encourages them, and us, to use our wealth for good, sowing seeds on earth to be reaped in heaven.
Prayer: We thank you, O God, for all that you have given us. Stir up in us, by the power of your Holy Spirit, faithful hearts ready to share what we have. Use our generosity to improve the lives of people in need. In the name of Christ, our Savior. Amen.
Thursday, September 22
Luke 16:19-31
Jesus makes it clear in this parable that God’s principles of mercy are reversed from that of the world. In this parable, the poor are lifted up while the rich are sent away empty.
Prayer: Have mercy on us, O God, for we do not always take care of your children who are in need. Stir us up to be more aware of the needs around us. Create in us willing hearts to reach out and serve those whom you send on our way. In the name of Christ, our Savior. Amen.
Friday, September 23
We end the week with this prayer:
O God, rich in mercy, you look with compassion on this troubled world. Feed us with your grace, and grant us the treasure that comes only from you. Open our eyes to see you, open our ears to hear you, and open our hearts to respond to your call to serve our neighbor, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.
