Prayer
Grace is not for the perfect alone,
but for those who stumble and rise again.
So, let us sing —
For songs of truth soften hardened hearts,
and tears of sorrow lead to healing.
Sing, for the Spirit is drawn to the voices of the faithful,
to praises lifted in humility and love.
In our song, may discord cease, and harmony be restored.
In our confession,
may division be healed, and unity renewed.
Let us come before God, seeking mercy and grace.
Amen.
New Testament Reading - Love for Jesus

3All honor to God, the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ; for it is his boundless mercy that has given us the privilege of being born again so that we are now members of God’s own family. Now we live in the hope of eternal life because Christ rose again from the dead. 4And God has reserved for his children the priceless gift of eternal life; it is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. 5And God, in his mighty power, will make sure that you get there safely to receive it because you are trusting him. It will be yours in that coming last day for all to see. 6So be truly glad! There is wonderful joy ahead, even though the going is rough for a while down here.
7These trials are only to test your faith, to see whether or not it is strong and pure. It is being tested as fire tests gold and purifies it — and your faith is far more precious to God than mere gold; so if your faith remains strong after being tried in the test tube of fiery trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day of his return.
8You love him even though you have never seen him; though not seeing him, you trust him; and even now you are happy with the inexpressible joy that comes from heaven itself. 9And your further reward for trusting him will be the salvation of your souls.
. . . . . 1 Peter 1:3-9Intercession
God of boundless mercy,
you call us to a love that transcends all barriers —
a love that embraces all,
even those with whom we are at odds.
In this moment, we come before you with open hearts,
seeking to mirror your grace
as we lift the needs of the world,
our neighbours, and all your children.
Draw us closer to your heart,
that our prayers may be a reflection of your reconciling love.
Lord of all gifts,
we thank you for the diversity among us
the unique talents, perspectives,
and experiences that enrich our community.
Help us to recognise that these gifts
are not for ourselves alone
but are given for the good of all.
Teach us to live in harmony as members of one body,
appreciating the role each of us plays
in building a world of justice and peace
and fulfilling the calling you have placed on our lives.
Amen.