3-Sep-23 (Matthew 16:21-28)

Jesus showed the truth of his own words, "those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will find it."  So, at the Table, as you meet our Host, who laid down his life that we might have life with God, let's recommit ourselves to laying down all that stands in the way of our life with God.  The pride, the anger or apathy, the hate and even just lack of love -- everything.  Lay it down and leave it.  It's not worth your life to keep it.  It's worth everything to let it go.
Let us pray.

Prayer:

Loving, giving God, we praise you and thank you for you son, who revealed your love to us in laying down his life for us.  We thank you for these symbols of bread and cup that remind us of how much you were willing to give to make us whole.  Empty us of all that stands between you and us and then fill us with your Spirit, that we may go from here to share the Good News with others.
In Jesus name, AMEN