Dear Lord Jesus Christ,
You are the Lord who gives life. Thank You for granting us life, and life more abundantly! We do not ask for material abundance, for having You has already been true riches. We ask for the gift to discern Your will and to do what pleases You, and we pray that You would lead Your church to be a lampstand to the world and a guardian of peace. Lord, You are the guide of our path and the symbol of hope; with You lighting the way, we can persevere to the end even in loneliness and hardship. We know that no one has been more lonely than You. You left the Father and came to Your own, yet Your own did not receive You. Nor has anyone been more sorrowful than You—grieving all day long over the disciples’ little faith and the people’s unbelief. Whenever we recall the persecution and suffering You endured for us, and on that day of suffering unto death, we are stirred once again, renewed in strength, soaring on wings like eagles, pressing forward through the storm. May the afflictions we bear on earth lead us to receive an eternal weight of glory in heaven. If we hold onto this hope of being forever with You, our present sufferings will become light and momentary. Your cross is our glory; may we also become Your glory. Your cross is eternal peace; may we also enjoy that eternal peace. Lord, You came to accomplish salvation and redeem us. We await Your return as King; all who belong to Christ long for Your coming, to destroy the enemy and restore worship throughout the earth. May God’s name be praised, and may all people hallow God’s name. We pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen!
en yan hua fang 