Offering Prayer: Proper 5 C


Here’s an invitation and prayer for the offering inspired by the suggested scripture readings for Proper 5 C (1 Kings 17:8-16 and Psalm 146).  It comes from the United Church of Christ’s Worship Ways website.

Invitation to Share
(inspired by 1 Kings 17: 8-16)

The widow of Zarephath thought the end was near. 
In a time of great drought, she had only enough meal and oil
to prepare a last bit of flatbread for herself and her son. 
And yet, when asked, she was willing to share what she had with a stranger. 
With great courage, she trusted God’s promise to provide for her family. 
Her story invites us to look at the act of sharing as an act of trust.  
Let us share generously and courageously
because we can trust God to provide us with what we need.


Prayer of Dedication
(inspired by Psalm 146)

Gracious God, we give these gifts because you ask us to share. 
We dedicate this offering and our lives to your service,
that the hungry may be fed, the oppressed may receive justice,
and the stranger may be welcomed in our midst. 
We offer this prayer in the name of the bearer of your good news,
Jesus the Christ. Amen.

~ posted on the United Church of Christ’s Worship Ways website. http://www.ucc.org/worship/worship-ways/