Benediction
“May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.”
-Hebrews 13:20-21
Benediction. Literally to speak well towards. It carries with it the connotation of blessing. The word that is spoken somehow infuses those who would receive it with power and confidence to move boldly into their world and be the people God has called them to be.
We usually think of the benediction as the ending of a worship service, the words the pastor says as we are leaving the sanctuary. And though it comes at the end, it really marks the beginning. These are words that encourage, equip and edify as the congregation goes into their mission field.
As the end of one year marks the beginning of a new one, I am compelled to write some words that I hope will encourage, equip, and edify as we enter the next millennium. I want to speak well towards you. A benediction, if you will, as we enter the year 2001...
Father,
As the new year approaches I pray that you would give us:
- Faces that are always turned toward you...
- Eyes that bring Jesus into sharp focus, leaving the peripheral things fuzzy. Let us see Jesus in everything and everyone...
- Ears that are tuned to the voice of your Holy Spirit...
- Lips and tongues that speak kindly, saying the right things at the right time, and knowing when to say nothing at all...
- Hearts that beat for you, your Word, and your people...
- Strong arms to lift in praise to you...
- And strong knees to kneel in prayer to you...
Thank you for equipping us with everything good for doing your will. May we bring you and your son, Jesus, glory in all that we do this year.
We love you Lord.
I ask you this in the precious and holy name of your Son, Jesus,
Amen