14 December 2025 Prayer for the Pastor + Deacon + Chaplain

https://www.cgpmn.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/14-December-2025.m4a

God, you give me courage even if I don’t particularly feel it. And you have called me into a way of being, not just because of my particular call, but boy is that all wrapped up in my life with you. You have taught me how to see you, to hear the nuance of your voice and presense in the world. And sometimes, well, honestly, a lot of the time, it seems like I’m the only one who can hear it and see it and it can be crazy making! And you know all the times I blow it, too. The times I don’t hear or won’t see. And it doesn’t mean you’re not there or at work – you just are. It’s your very nature. So, God, in this time before all the things happen – or don’t happen – today, it’s this time, right now, that is for you and me. Wow. In this grand sweeping story of your salvation and grace and mercy for the whole world, it only really matters when it’s one at a time. And I know that’s what I get to point to for others, but right now I’m just going to put my pointer finger down and receive this promise of love and belovedness from you.

I mean, take a moment here folks. Close your eyes or hit the pause button to sit in this promise even a little longer. Before you pray for others.

Come into the lives of my beloved family and my good colleagues in a new way today, God. Give them new hope and new vision of what your love looks like on them, and in them. Help them to see themselves through your eyes – what a vision! What a sight!

And I pray especially for my CGP colleagues. Especially as the Ad-Christ-Vent-Mas season gains steam and we can so easily get caught up in the teeth of it. Our hearts can be especially guarded and tender this time of year, especially if bodies and lives are all askew.

Drew Yackel (Our Savior’s, Faribault), who had surgery this past week to repair a torn patellar tendon (ouch!) – for his healing, and for patience.

Dale Degner (Trinity, Benson), as chemo treatments started this week. Give him your hope in the midst of his fear and uncertainty. And hey, he’d like at least 20 more years!

Ben Hilding (Gustavus, St. Peter), for continued strengthened immunity and rest.

Nissa Peterson (Chatfield Lutheran & Root Prairie), as she and her family accompany Grandpa Roger who is doing just fine in hospice, thankyouverymuch.

Kristi Mitchell (Redeemer, Alden, Concordia, Pickeral Lake), walking the long path of dementia and cancer with husband Bill. May she know your love and care as she sees glimpses of her husband in tender moments together.

Becca Krogstad (Bethany, Moran and St. Matthews, Evan), as she grieves the recent death of her mom.

Scott Richards (St. Paul’s and Trinity, Gaylord), grieving the death of his dad.

Peg Marose (Good Hope Parish, Thompson, IA · Kiester, MN · Bricelyn, MN), for rest and rejuvenation.

Oh how I love you, God. Stir up my faith, quiet my heart, help my unbelief. Your love is sure. Amen.

Ok dear friends – It’s wild out there – and God is with you. Don’t lose heart. Don’t be afraid.