WEEK OF JULY 20-25

I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing. Whoever does not abide in me is thrown away like a branch and withers; such branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask for whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit and become my disciples. John 15:5-8

Morning Prayer

Dear God, You are indeed the true vine. We pray this week that we would be individuals and a church community that abides in you. When we root ourselves first in prayer, we know you will help us bear much fruit. Help us let go of the things that keep us from you and strengthen us with the will to abide in you in all things. You have a fruitful vision in store for SSUMC--one where you use us to make disciples and to transform our community and world with your love. We pray today for the needs of our community--show them to us. Show us what breaks your heart--the places where people are lonely, hungry, grieving, in pain. And help us to discern how our church can be part of bringing the fruit of your hope and healing to Sandy Springs. We pray in the name of Jesus, Amen. 

Evening Prayer

Holy One, As the day is ending, we give thanks for the ways you have borne fruit in our lives and in our world. Help us discern how Sandy Springs UMC can be a community that bears fruit in your name for years to come. What is your preferred future for us? How can we be good stewards of your abundant resources which you have so graciously entrusted us with to live out the mission of SSUMC to make disciples."? What kind of fruit are we called to bear, and what does our community most need from us? We ask these questions abiding in you first, trusting in your Spirit to answer, and excited to follow where you may lead us. We pray in the name and power of Jesus, Amen. 

Journal Question This Week: