Closing Prayer: Epiphany 7A

Here’s a closing prayer inspired by the suggested scripture readings for Epiphany 7, Year A.  It was written by Rev. Elizabeth Dilley, and posted on the United Church of Christ’s Worship Ways website.

Closing Prayer
(inspired by Leviticus 19: 9-10, Matthew 5: 43-48)

Wonderful God, you call us to do the impossible:
   to love our enemies,
   to confront injustice,
   to share bountifully with the poor.
You do not give us an inch:
you call us to be perfect in our imitation of you.
And yet, you give us everything:
   love abounding,
   the foundation of Christ,
   and the gift of creation.
Bless us, therefore, as we depart this place:
give us the blessing of a faithful spirit, a willing heart,
and a kin-dom of grace. Amen!

~ written by the Rev. Elizabeth Dilley, , and posted on the United Church of Christ’s Worship Ways website. http://www.ucc.org/worship/worship-ways/