Yielding Wild Grapes

By Katie Minnis

Isaiah 5:1-7 (Luke 12:49-56)

General Prayer

Holy God,

You offer such goodness to us. You give so much to us, blessing us with resources that many go without. Despite your goodness, humanity has collectively responded selfishly, taking what we can get, using it for our own gain, and not thinking of the consequences. Forgive us for producing rotten fruit when you’ve given us everything we need so that ALL people can thrive. May we learn to be more like you, bringing forth goodness and care so that good fruit may come to the world.

Amen.

Call to Worship

(adapted from Psalm 80: 14-19)

Leader: We cry out–
People: Restore us, O God!
Leader: We petition–
People: God, may your face shine upon us!
Leader: We lift our voices–
People: We turn toward you, O God and call on your name!
AMEN.

Prayer of Lament

God-Who-Listens,

We approach you today with a lot of questions. Bad things happen far too often, and we can’t understand why. God, why does it feel like more and more people face death, unemployment, injustice, and sickness every day? Why do tragedies occur, leaving us at a loss for words? Families are torn apart, becoming foes to those who were friends. Humanity is facing more global distress than we can navigate. Our news feeds are overwhelmed with articles about natural disasters, fires, war, mental illness, racial violence, disparity in gender and sexuality; and the list goes on . . . and on . . . and on. Why do these things happen, God? We try to do the right thing, yet bad things still happen. We try to nurture the seeds you have planted, hoping for an abundant harvest. Yet, the harvest seems bleak.

There are no easy answers to these questions. All we know is that we are called to continue the work, so that what is rotten may become fertilizer for something new. God, remind us that you are with us in all things. You are a God of seasons, of beginnings and endings. Despite the changes all around us, you are steadfast. Thank you, God, for letting us lift these concerns to you. Thank you for holding space for us to share our grievances. Even though tragedy continues, we are grateful for the peace we know in your presence.

Amen.