O God, by your self-giving love and presence, embrace each of us as we associate and communicate with each other today.  Give us ears to hear what you are saying, hearts and  minds to discern and understand what you are doing.  By your grace, grant us the obedience to be quick to listen and slow to speak; the patience and humility to set our lives on your time; and the wisdom to respond appropriately.  Give us the heart, mind, and work of Christ, so as we are emptied in humble obedience we can be filled with the presence, peace, and power of your Son, so we can give ourselves to each other, the church, and the community as you have given yourself to us and to all the world. We offer ourselves to you in the name of your self-giving love, Jesus the Christ. Amen