God of the Community,

Sometimes your instructions are
so simple.

Sometimes your instructions are
so complicated.

Sometimes your instructions are
so uncomfortable.

Eat what is set before you. Simple.  (most of the time)
Cure the sick. Complicated ( possible with help)
The Kingdom of God has come near.  Uncomfortable. (somewhat awkward)

God, I want to follow your instructions but…
what if I don’t like the food?
what if I get squeamish around sick people?
what if they laugh at me or reject me or worse… want me to explain the Kingdom of God?

God, grant me the opportunities to be a graceful recipient of hospitality.
God, grant me the courage to be fully present with those suffer from diseases.
God, grant me the wisdom and understanding  to proclaim boldly that being a disciple means showing up and being present in the community.

God of the community,
thank you for your presence,
Thank you for opportunities to be courageous and bold,
thank you for the instructions for being the Kingdom of God.

Amen.