Pentecost: Litany of fire
8:00 AM"Pentecost bonfire" by Rrrodrigo on flickr |
Fire of the Spirit,
be with us and hear us.
We praise you, Lord God, for your faithfulness throughout all generations, and for the fire of your love which cannot be quenched.
Fire of the Spirit,
be with us and hear us.
In a burning bush that was not consumed, you called and empowered your servant, Moses. Ignite our hearts that we might hear your call.
Fire of the Spirit,
be with us and hear us.
By a pillar of fire, you led your chosen people out of slavery, through the wilderness and into the promised land. Lead us onward with a sure and certain hope of your promise and protection.
Fire of the Spirit,
be with us and hear us.
In the fiery furnace, you stood with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego as they stood up for their faith. Stay near us as we strive for faithfulness even in our own trials by fire.
Fire of the Spirit,
be with us and hear us.
By a chariot of fire you raised your servant Elijah into the clouds when his work on this earth had been completed. Help us to be faithful in the tasks you have set before us until at last we rise to eternal rest with you.
Fire of the Spirit,
be with us and hear us.
Through the words of your prophet John, you promised to baptize your people with the Holy Spirit and with fire. Help us live each day in the warmth and glow of our identities as children of God.
Fire of the Spirit,
be with us and hear us.
By a fire in the courtyard, Peter denied his faith and yet you showed him your mercy. Embrace us in the warmth of your mercy when we falter and fear.
Fire of the Spirit,
be with us and hear us.
Around a campfire, the resurrected Jesus appeared to his disciples and ate a meal with them. Let us see resurrection each day and sustain us with the hope of eternal life.
Fire of the Spirit,
be with us and hear us.
Through descending tongues of fire, you sent forth your Spirit and ignited your holy church. Ignite our hearts and embolden us to be your witnesses.
Fire of the Spirit,
be with us and hear us.
Eternal God, in Jesus Christ you have given the light of life to all the world. Bless this fire, and let us shine forth with the brightness of Christ’s rising, until we feast at the banquet of eternal light; through the Sun of righteousness, Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
(written by Melissa Bills; final petition adapted from the Easter Vigil liturgy, Evangelical Lutheran Worship)
2 comments
This order is further demonstrated by the Whitsunday fact that the apostles are portrayed sitting calmly occupying places in accordance with their importance and age.
ReplyDeleteBonfire is an amazing activity
ReplyDelete