Ordinary Time

Pause

As followers of Christ, we join Jesus, who went before us, in the waters of baptism. There God offers us new life — a life with the assurance of God’s unfailing love and the power of the Spirit.

Take this time to reflect on your baptism. Give thanks for what it has meant to you. Consider anew what it might mean for your living today.

Listen

You, divine beings! Give to the Lord— give to the Lord glory and power! Give to the Lord the glory due his name! Bow down to the Lord in holy splendor!

The Lord’s voice is over the waters; the glorious God thunders; the Lord is over the mighty waters. The Lord’s voice is strong; the Lord’s voice is majestic.

Psalm 29:1-4

Think

Throughout Scripture, water is used to heal and cleanse. We read of quiet waters, deep wells, and flowing streams. But water also has a darker side in the Bible. It can be ominous and destructive.

The witness of Scripture tells us, though, that even the waters bow down to the voice of the Lord. The Psalmist proclaims that God’s voice is over the power of the mighty waters. In Genesis, we read that God spoke the heavens and the earth into existence out of the dark, deep waters. The Gospels tell us that, with his voice, Jesus stilled a stormy sea.

If you find yourself in the midst of surging waters, being tossed around by a stormy sea, swirling in life’s chaos, know this: the Lord’s voice is strong! God’s voice is mightier than the roar of the waters. Listen for the voice of the One who has the power to still and to save.

Meredith Forssman

Pray

O God, I am listening for your voice! Thank you for being more powerful than all the dangers around me. I bow down to you, giving you all glory and praise. Amen.

Go

“God of grace and glory, you call us with your voice of flame to be your people, faithful and courageous.

As your beloved Son embraced his mission in the waters of baptism, inspire us with the fire of your Spirit to join in his transforming work.

We ask this in the name of our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns for ever and ever. Amen.”

Revised Common Lectionary Prayers