Independence Day
Eternal Father, Ruler of all nations, on this day when my country celebrates its birth, I thank You for all spiritual and temporal blessings enjoyed in our land. In Your mercy, You have sustained this nation in times of trouble and preserved its liberties. Teach me anew to treasure especially that dearly won freedom of conscience and worship that is the cornerstone of this country's principles. Let me not misuse this liberty nor forget that true freedom is freedom to serve.
Give me willingness to share in the process of democratic rule, to respect my country's laws, and to work for the preservation of its institutions. Forgive our past sins committed as a nation in the name of misguided patriotism, self-interest, or political expediency. Confound all those who, for the sake of partisanship or other motives, would sacrifice the greater welfare. Grant wisdom to our leaders. Strengthen all those who strive to do Your will. Increase loyalty to You and to our beloved country. Protect me and my fellow citizens from all subversive or terrorist acts.
Above all, dear God, speed the course of Your Gospel among us, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit, hearts are turned to that freedom from sin and death that You alone graciously give through Jesus Christ.
Amen.
The Lord's Prayer
Our Father, who art in Heaven, hallowed by Thy name,
Thy Kingdom come,
Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread;
and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us;
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one.
For Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen
Let each day begin with prayer,
Praise, and adoration.
On the Lord cast ev'ry care,
He is your salvation.
Morning, evening, and at night
Jesus will be near you,
Save you from the tempter's might,
With His presence cheer you.
My loved ones, rest securely,
For God this night will surely
From peril guard your heads.
Sweet slumbers may He send you
And bid His hosts attend you
And through the night watch o'er your beds.
Luther's Table Prayer
Asking A Blessing
The eyes of all look to You, O Lord, and you give them their food at the proper time. You open Your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing. (Psalm 145:15-16)
Lord God, heavenly Father, bless us and these gifts which we receive from Your bountiful goodness, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Luther's Table Prayer
Returning Thanks
Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. His love endures forever. He gives food to every creature. He provides food for the cattle and for the young ravens when they call. His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, nor His delight in the legs of a man; the Lord delights in those who fear Him, who put their hope in His unfailing love. (Psalm 136:1, 25; 147:9-11)
We thank you, Lord God, heavenly Father, for all your benefits, through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit forever and ever. Amen.