[PRAY]
In a short treatise concerning prayer, Martin Luther taught the discipline of praying the Ten Commandments. Today, as a practice in devotion and discipleship, reflect upon and pray this prayer based on the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17):
Almighty and Everlasting God. You alone are God, there is no other. You have revealed yourself to us in many ways, through your creation, scripture and the prophets, and through your Son Jesus Christ.
You have also revealed yourself to us by name, so that we can call out to you in faith, hope, and love. Help us to always remember that you are with us.
Help us to keep the Sabbath, that we may gather in your name and give praise and thanks to you for all you have given us, our families, homes, and our health. Help us to share these gifts with all those in need.
We give thanks to you for our parents, our leaders, and all who are placed in authority by your hand. We ask that you provide them with wisdom and patience, and the ability to make sound decisions, governing according to your will.
Living God, we ask you to help us protect all life, being mindful not to harm others through our actions, or our words.
Bless us in our relationships, helping spouses to remain true to one another and live in the fullness of their love.
We ask that you give us the power to resist the temptation to take what is not ours, and to help us protect that which belongs to our neighbor.
Help us to speak well of our neighbors, protecting their reputation and standing in the community.
Help us to understand the fullness of your blessings, so that we do not desire those things that belong to our neighbor. Rather, give us the power to protect their possessions and to help them remain loyal to their husbands, wives and families.
Into your hands we commend ourselves all for whom we pray, trusting in your goodness and mercy, through your Son Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit; one God now and forever.
Amen.
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