Jesus, You love the Church.
You gave Yourself up for her.
You made her holy.
You cleansed her by washing her with water through the Word.
Jesus, You love the Church.
You join the walls of the building with You as the Chief Cornerstone.
You are with the two or three that gather in Your name.
You present the Church radiantly, without stain, wrinkle, or any other blemish.
Jesus, because You love the Church —
Help us to be good shepherds, keeping watch over your flock.
Help us to desire to meet together, even when we’re tired or busy.
Help us encourage each other in the faith, not see each other as competition.
Help us stir up one another to love and good works.
Help us teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit.
Help us ultimately submit to You, and to Your Father.
Father, we are one body with different members and gifts.
Where there is division, bring unity.
Your followers are imperfect, broken people.
When we falter, You make the Church holy and blameless.
When others in Your Church fall into sin,
Or, when I fall into sin myself,
You extend boundless grace and limitless mercy.
Father, encourage us through Your Word, which says that the Church, though it may experience evil, will not be overcome.
Remind us of how Your Word says that the gates of hell shall not prevail.
Father, You love the Church.
Help me to love the Church, too.
