Opening Prayer: With Open Arms

Here’s a suggested opening prayer inspired by three of the suggested scripture readings for Proper 15, Year A: Matthew 15:21-28, Romans 11:1-2, 29-32, and Isaiah 56:1, 6-8 – all of which speak about how the mercy of God extends to all who trust in Him.

With Open Arms

With open arms You welcome all who call on Your name—
who acknowledge You as Lord, and look to You in faith.
No one stands outside the circle of Your mercy and love.
And so we come to offer You our worship—
to declare that You are our God,
and that we are Your people,
called and chosen by You from the very beginning.
Through the presence of Your Holy Spirit
open our eyes to see You here;
open our minds to receive Your truth,
and our mouths to speak and sing Your praise.
For You alone are God—
worthy of all praise and worship,
now and to the end of time.
Amen.