A prayer about going to church and being away from it

 

Let us hold on to the hope we say we have and not be changed. We can trust God that He will do what He promised. Let us help each other to love others and to do good. Let us not stay away from church meetings. Some people are doing this all the time. Comfort each other as you see the day of His return coming near. (Hebrews 10:23-25)

Lord Jesus,

I want to be near you–

to behold you in the sanctuary,

to see your face and feel your Spirit.

I love to be surrounded in worship by those who love you.

I’ve tried to worship at home, but it isn’t the same.

There’s nothing like being in your presence 

with people who call your name and seek your blessing

and responds to your conviction with humility and urgency.

Thank you, Lord, for the church,

for your Spirit that hovers there 

and the feeling of love and unity that is present in your body.

Bring me back–bring us all back–

without fear or anxiety

and without blame, disappointment, or judgment.

Just bring us back to you.

Guard us from petty misunderstandings and disillusionment.

Let nothing disrupt the power of assembling together.

Dismantle our fears.

Convict us of laziness and apathy,

and help us push through our excuses for not going to church.

Inspire us to service and community.

May we understand the value of the church 

and the priority that you place on us being physically together.

I pray healing and protection over my church and my pastors.

Thank you for sending your Spirit into any place where we gather together in your name.

Thank you for this institution that radiates (or at least should): love, grace, harmony, and growth.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.