It's Halloween

Driving past Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center I noticed the Hardee's on the corner was decked out in Christmas decorations - already!  We're not at Christmas yet, we haven't even made past Halloween.  So in the spirit of taking one day at a time, here are some readings and prayers for today taken from the Book of Occasional Services.

The Witch of Endor (1 Samuel 28:3-25)

Let us pray.
Almighty and everliving God, you have made all things in your wisdom and established the boundaries of life and death: Grant that we may obey your voice in this world, and in the world to come may enjoy the rest and peace which you have appointed for your people; through Jesus Christ who is Resurrection and Life, and who lives and reigns for ever and ever.  Amen.

The Vision of Eliphaz the Temanite (Job 4:12-21)

Let us pray.
You, O Lord, have made us from the dust of the earth and to dust our bodies shall return; yet you have also breathed your Spirit upon us and called us to new life in you: Have mercy upon us, now and at the hour of our death; through Jesus Christ, our mediator and advocate.  Amen.

The Valley of the Dry Bones (Ezekiel 37:1-14)

Let us pray.
O God, you have called your people to your service from age to age.  Do not give us over to death, but raise us up to serve you, to praise you, and to glorify your holy Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

The War in Heaven (Revelation 12:1-12)

Let us pray.
O most merciful and mighty God, your son Jesus Christ was born of the Blessed Virgin Mary to bring us salvation and to establish your kingdom on earth: Grant that Michael and all your angels may defend your people against Satan and every evil foe, and that at the last we may come to that heavenly country where your saints for ever sing your praise; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

--
Fr. Steve Rice
Rector, St Timothy's Episcopal Church
Winston-Salem, NC
www.sttimothys.ws