5-July-26 (Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30)

Jesus said, "Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest."  As weary as we are, we can all think of other folks whose burdens are heavier and who've had to carry them longer than we have. Sometimes we have the privilege of helping those folks with help in lifting those burdens, standing in for God as instruments of God's grace.
One such opportunity is coming up right now, as we give of our financial resources to help meet needs, provide comfort and aid, and support the work of the Church in our own neighborhood, in our community, and all over the world.
Consider your part in that as the deacons come to take up our offering for today.

Prayer:

Please join me in a spirit of prayer.
God who reaches out in love to those with burdens, we thank you for your love for us, taught to us and demonstrated to us.
Help us to be part of demonstrating your love to others, especially those who are heavily burdened. Give is giving and generous hearts.
We pray for these offerings as well, that they would be put to use in demonstrating that love beyond where we ourselves can reach.
We pray this in Jesus name, AMEN.