I found this prayer while working on my sermon a few weeks ago. I ended my sermon that week with this prayer after lifting up hospitality in my sermon. Hospitality is a two way street at times. We are called to be hospitable to all we meet and the visitors who join us in worship. There are those times when we need the hospitality of others and should be open to accepting it in our times of need or just in general when invited by a friend to visit with them. The prayer speaks many truths for all Christians to consider when considering their life in the church. I am sharing this prayer with you for you to pause and think about its words and how they may be speaking to each one of us. Pastor Kerns
L: Let us pray together.
C: Your church is composed of people like me.
I help make it what it is.
It will be friendly, if I am.
Its pews will be filled, if I help fill them.
It will do great work, if I work.
It will make generous gifts to many causes, if I am a generous giver.
It will bring other people into its worship and fellowship, if I invite and bring them.
It will be a church where people grow in faith and serve you, if I am open to such growth and service.
Therefore, with your help Lord, we shall dedicate ourselves to the task of being all the things you want your church to be. Amen. (Pastor Meredith Musaus Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Menomonee Falls, WI.)
— Pastor Kerns