Offertory Prayers for April 2006

April 2, 2006 — Fifth Sunday in Lent
Glorious God, you sent Jesus to change our lives in bold and amazing ways. Yet we often are consumed by the pettiness of our own "to do" lists. As we place this offering before you, help us to surrender completely to your love and to be stirred into fruit-bearing action that results in faithful stewardship. In your holy name, we pray. Amen. (John 12:20-33)

April 9, 2006 — Palm Sunday
Blessed Lord, we are moved to be your faithful disciples. Like the palms laid long ago in honor of your son, we present these gifts for your reverent design. We proclaim that your sovereign existence will transform the lives of all who believe in your Son, Jesus Christ. Hosanna in the Highest! Amen. (Mark 11:1-11)

April 16, 2006 — Easter Sunday
Majestic One, today we celebrate the miracle that was created for all who are ready to receive. Your absolute decree of the Risen Son reminds us that our faith is connected intimately to your amazing, unwavering love. The unconditional love that you repeatedly uplift is our reminder to love all your children. Multiply these gifts so the promises of a seemingly distant heaven become more of a reality on Earth. Glory Hallelujah! Amen and amen. (Mark 16:1-8)

April 23, 2006 — Second Sunday of Easter
Holy One, we do not doubt that Jesus, the Messiah, lives again. Yet only one short week from Easter, our thoughts are cluttered with finite, insignificant activities and agendas. Instead of remaining focused on the abundance of divine transformation, we return to a pessimistic mindset of scarcity. Refocus our attention on the joy of Easter, so that we may recognize all that we have received and be led to give cheerfully. We pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. (John 20:19-31)

April 30, 2006 — Third Sunday of Easter
Forgiving Father, we faithfully give witness to your work in this world by sharing these gifts and offerings. You shared your Son, Jesus, so that we may repent of our sins and be saved. Thank you for providing us with the example of how to place courageously your call of discipleship into action. We pray that we may live each day according to your holy ways. In the name of the Great Teacher, Jesus, we pray. Amen. (Luke 24:36b-48)

Written by the Rev. David S. Bell (dbell@gbod.org), Director of the Center for Christian Stewardship, the General Board of Discipleship of The United Methodist Church.

Copyright © 2006 The General Board of Discipleship of The United Methodist Church. All rights reserved. Any local church, regardless of denominational affiliation, or any United Methodist organization may reprint any or all of this document provided that the author is cited and the following copyright notice appears:

Copyright © 2006 The General Board of Discipleship of The United Methodist Church. Used with permission.

Posted 3-22-06