“Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves.” (Matthew 10:16)
Guide Bishop Bill as attends meetings of the House of Bishops. Guide Bishop Dave as he goes forth to minister to those who have left the Episcopal Church.
“But beware of men, for they will deliver you up to councils and scourge you in their synagogues.” (Matthew 10:17)
Lord, the councils of the Episcopal Church have become corrupt in their use of power — please protect and guide all who must come before them.
“You will be brought before governors and kings for my sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles.” (Matthew 10:18 )
Holy Spirit, please help your faithful people give a good testimony wherever they are brought.
“But when they deliver you up, do not worry about how or what you should speak. For it will be given to you in that hour what you should speak;” (Matthew 10:19)
Holy Spirit, thank you for your faithful witness to and through your saints.
“for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you.” (Matthew 10:20)
Father, please send your Holy Spirit upon those who speak for the cannons on Marriage and Standards for Clergy at the Diocesan Convention.
“Now brother will deliver up brother to death, and a father his child; and children will rise up against parents and cause them to be put to death.” (Matthew 10:21)
Father, we are in such a time when so many do what is right in their own eyes without heed of you; have mercy on us in the Episcopal Church.
“And you will be hated by all for my name’s sake. But he who endures to the end will be saved.” (Matthew 10:22)
Jesus, help us stand our ground and endure to the end for your sake.
“When they persecute you in this city, flee to another. For assuredly, I say to you, you will not have gone through the cities of Israel before the Son of Man comes.” (Matthew 10:23)
Come soon, Lord Jesus, for many flee the Episcopal Church daily.
“… that you may know what is the hope of his calling… ” (Ephesians 1:18 ).
Holy Spirit, help all of us in this diocese to know the hope of our calling in Jesus.
A word received: Keep praying for the Episcopal Church. It is my church; it belongs to me.
Thursday: 134, 135; Ezekiel 37:21b-28; 1 John 2:18-29; Matthew 10:16-23
Friday: 141, 143:1-11(12); Ezekiel 39:21-29; 1 John 3:1-10; Matthew 10:24-33
Albany Intercessor
