May 28, 2017 THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD-A

Acts 1:1-11

Psalm 47

Ephesians 1:17-23

Matthew 28:16-20

When they saw him, they worshiped, but they doubted.  Matthew 28:17

Lord, I thank you for the gift of faith that brings me to prayer and worship.  But, like your disciples, faith can be a struggle at times.  My faith may be strong but it’s not perfect because I am not perfect.  If the men who saw all your miracles, heard your teachings and touched you after you rose from the dead had some doubts I shouldn’t be surprised at mine.  What did they doubt?  Was it your divinity or their place in your plan or how they could carry out the order to preach to and baptize “all mankind”?  Maybe they were grieving over your departure from them.  Lord, I have times that I’m on fire for love of you and it seems all is right and good.  Other times I feel as dry as a desert.  My prayer and worship can become routine and stale.  I trust that you understand everything about me and still love me.  Lord, I open my heart to your grace and the power of your Spirit.  I lay any doubts or weaknesses at your feet.  Be patient with me, Jesus, and hold me close.  Amen.