A Pastor’s Prayer
I wanted to share a prayer about ministry, which I came across titled, “Prayers for Pastor and People.” It expresses my thoughts more eloquently than l ever could.
“O Lord my God, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; yet you have called your servant to stand in your house, to serve at your altar. To you and to your service I devote myself, body, soul, and spirit. Fill my memory with the record of your mighty works; enlighten my understanding with the light of your Holy Spirit; and may all the desires of my heart and will center in what you would have me do. Make me an instrument of your salvation for the people entrusted to your care, and grant that I may faithfully administer your holy Sacraments, and by my life and teaching set forth your true and living Word. Be always with me in carrying out the duties of my ministry. In prayer, quicken my devotion; in praise, heighten my love and gratitude; in preaching, give me readiness of thought and expression; and grant that, by the clearness and brightness of your holy Word, all the world may be drawn into your blessed Kingdom. All this I ask for the sake of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.”[1]
It has been and continues to be a privilege and honor to serve on the staff of St. Martin’s for nearly 11 years. Thank you!
[1] “Prayers for Pastor and People,” Carl G Carlozzi, The Church Hymnal Corp., N.Y., p. 142.
