15 February, 2024
Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.– Ephesians 5:1-2
Heavenly Father, we come before you in earnest gratitude, for, as the Author of Life and of our Salvation, despite our daily transgressions, you forgive us and love us as your adopted children and as co-heirs of your Kingdom. You are Holiness itself, yet, in your goodness and kindness, your mercy and justice, you have sanctified us through the death of Jesus, your beloved Son, who died for us sinners. He justified us before you, by cleansing us of all our sins for the sake of your glory, giving us unequivocal proof of your love.
As your faithful followers, Father, we are committed to living according to the teachings of our Lord Jesus, in love, in imitation and emulation of Christ. He ministered to people and ultimately gave up his life in an unparalleled sacrificial offering, which was pleasing and in perfect accordance with your Holy plans and your Holy Will. Imitation is the learning process of discipleship, and we learn to love, because he loved us first. With the divine assistance of your wisdom and mercy, we pray that we grow in holiness and righteousness, cultivating mercy, beneficence and forgiveness to all our fellowmen.
By your Almighty Power and wisdom, you have bound us in a covenant of grace, which is made manifest in the regeneration of our souls and by faith in Christ Jesus. Your love for us, Father, is everlasting and unchangeable love, and this love is the source of our adoption. By your calling, and by your free grace, by treasuring us as your chosen ranks, by the pity and compassion you have shown us, we endeavor to inculcate the same towards our offspring and also to our brethren, in Jesus’ Name. Amen