Scripture: Acts 19.24-26
A silversmith named Demetrius, who made silver shrines of Artemis, brought in a lot of business for the craftsmen there. He called them together, along with the workers in related trades, and said: “You know, my friends, that we receive a good income from this business. And you see and hear how this fellow Paul has convinced and led astray large numbers of people here in Ephesus and in practically the whole province of Asia. He says that gods made by human hands are no gods at all.

Reflection: A Prayer for My People from China :: Worldwide Prayer

Loving God,
For my people, I cry out to you,
For my people lacking food and clothing
For the many unemployed
For those denied the opportunity to worship you
For those prevented from expressing their opinions
For the many different ethnic groups
I cry out to you.

Oh Lord,
May my people find economic stability
May my people work for peace

And above all, may your holy Word
Make a powerful impact throughout my nation

Oh Lord, hear my prayer, in Jesus’ name

*Prayer from Hallowed be Your Name: A collection of prayers from around the world, Dr. Tony Cupit, Editor.

The Prayer Appointed for the Week
Father in Heaven, who at the baptism of Jesus in the River Jordan proclaimed him your beloved Son and anointed him with the Holy Spirit: Grant that all who are baptized into His Name may keep the covenant they have made, and boldly confess him as Lord and Savior; who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.

– From The Divine Hours: Prayers for Autumn and Wintertime by Phyllis Tickle.

Full prayer available online and in print.

Today’s Readings
Nehemiah 9 (Listen – 7:46)
Acts 19 (Listen – 5:47)

This Weekend’s Readings
Nehemiah 10 (Listen – 4:41) Acts 20 (Listen – 5:22)
Nehemiah 11 (Listen – 5:05) Acts 21 (Listen – 5:55)