Marking Time: Forming Spirituality through the Christian Year

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Fleshing Out the Universal Priesthood, continued

3. He sought God in the evening and night, Luke 6.12 – In these days he went out to the mountain to pray, and all night he continued in prayer to God. 4. It was the substance of his spiritual life, Heb. 5.7 – In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplica tions, with loud cries and tears, to him who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence.

C. Morning and evening acknowledgment follows the rhythm of God’s care and concern for us.

1. Morning sacrifice of prayer and praise gives us an opportunity to acknowledge God as our Source, to thank him for his steadfast love and mercy, and to seek his guidance for the day. 2. Evening sacrifice of prayer and praise allows us to thank him for his many blessings and care, and to ask for his protection and defense through the night.

III. It is edifying . To seek the face of God is one of the most pleasant, building, and transforming acts for the people of God.

A. For our spiritual service

1. We should cry out to God evening, morning, and at noon, Ps. 55.17 – Evening and morning and at noon I utter my complaint and moan, and he hears my voice.

2. To seek the Lord with our whole heart

a. Ps. 17.7 – Wondrously show your steadfast love, O Savior of those who seek refuge from their adversaries at your right hand.