Prayer 1978: Inspired by Matthew 20:1-16

(Matthew 20:1-16)
Lord, the sun rises over the vineyard,
and You call us as workers into it:
may with go with joy and humility,
gathering the harvest of the kingdom:
love,
joy,
peace,
forbearance,
kindness,
goodness,
faithfulness,
gentleness,
justice,
and self-control.

May these be pressed into new wine within us,
that we may embody them into the world,
in the Name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit,
to the glory of the Name of God.

May we rejoice when new workers join us,
embracing them and welcoming them
in the name of love in action,
in justice and charity and hope.

Lord Jesus, center us and enter us by your great mercy,
that at day's end we lie down in peace,
having served You in each person we have met and welcomed in love.
By the power of the Holy Spirit,
guide our labors in your name today, O God,
and anoint these beloveds whose needs we raise before You.

Amen.