Note: Today is a day of prayer and fasting for Ada Lyndon. “Mozzie” is the nickname for members of our mission in Mozambique. Since we are unable to be together I have imagined a service at which we and God are all present.

A SERVICE FOR ADA

(Based on Psalm 57)

Four enemies attack Ada: cancer, pain, anxiety and doubt. Christ defeats them all and to him we sing.

ADA:

Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me.
My soul is safe in you.
In the shadow of your wings I am hiding,
until this storm of cancer passes by.

THE MOZZIES:

Cry out to God Most High,
to God who is working out his plan for you.
He came from heaven and saved you.
He will defeat every negative thought.

CHRIS:

God will send us his steadfast love and his faithfulness.

WOMEN:

I lie down in fear.
It greedily devours my mind.
Anxious thoughts assail me.
I am pierced by doubt.

CHILDREN:

Be exalted, O God, above the heavens.
Let your glory be over all the earth.

MEN:

Trapped in a cycle of pain,
My soul was bound.
Cancer and pain tried to imprison me.
But they have failed and I am free.

ADA:

My heart is strong, O God!
My heart is strong.
I will sing and sing and sing!

GOD:

Grab your guitar, Chris, and play along!
Stephen, bang your drum!
Sing, Rebekah, sing!

THE MOZZIES:

Our praise will shake the sun from its sleep.
Our hymn of thanksgiving will wake the neighbours.
All over the world we are praising you!.
Your rock-solid love is as high as the heavens.
Your faithfulness soars above the clouds.

CHILDREN:

Be exalted, O God, above the heavens.
Let your glory be over all the earth.

Christ Jesus, you turn defeat into victory,
And a dire diagnosis into a song of praise.
Heal Ada’s body. Renew her mind.
Surround her family with faith and hope.
May your Spirit spread through her body and soul.
That many may see and give you glory.

Amen.