Nehemiah 1:2-6a
“…Hanani, one of my brothers, came from Judah with some other men, and I questioned them about the Jewish remnant that survived the exile, and also about Jerusalem.  They said to me, ‘Those who survived the exile and are back in the province are in great trouble and disgrace.  The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned with fire.’  When I heard these things, I sat down and wept.  For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven.  Then I said:  ‘O Lord, God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and obey his commands, let your ear be attentive and your eyes open to hear the prayer your servant is praying before you day and night for your servants, the people of Israel.’”

Acts 13:2-4
“While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’  So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.”

Matthew 5:6
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”

Humbly we come before you, Lord God, knowing you turn your ear to your kneeling servants.

You judge the intentions of our hearts by the control we permit our bodies.  In seeking your counsel we put aside our own attachments and desires.

May hunger for the work of your hand exceed our craving for the passing pleasure of a meal.  Hear our prayers when we first seat ourselves at the good table you have prepared.

In Christ’s name we pray, who denied himself the rich taste of your presence so that we might know fullness beyond compare.

Listen to ‘Breathe (O Breath of Life)’ by Hope College Worship