Prayer for these times
O God whose wonderful presence enfolds the earth the universe and all time and space
We come here today with heavy hearts that mankind can be so reduced by horror.
Every age sees itself as uniquely catastrophic and many become dispirited and some desperate.
Let us not be defeatist and lose heart and hope.
Let us cling to the spirit which comes from God, a primordial thing not of human manufacture. The spirit which is evidenced in vitality & courage and a refusal to be overcome by the baser things of this world.
A spirit which can see the good in all despite their faults, that can understand the hurts which force others actions.
A spirit which banishes fear.
Let us seek to heal divisions and bring harmony in societies.
May God’s spirit of wholeness and holiness pervade all.
Assist the seed of Jesus’ message to take root in good soil and not be swept away by the distractions of materialism and self interest.
We give thanks for the glimmers of God’s spirit blowing in the world, despite the horrors of past days,
the skill and dedication of the rescuers, the care for the wounded,
The attempts now to be made to relieve the poverty and the scourge of aids in Africa and other third world countries.
The easing of the administration of the Immigration laws.
We give thanks for life giving rain enabling our farmers to go on with renewed zest, confirming hope and dispelling fear.
Let God’s spirit help us to restore right relationships in our families and between our friends and neighbours, caring for those of our community that are troubled or ill.
May we not forget to care for the physical environment with which we are so blessed.
The spirit blows with justice - may we seek to promote that justice for our country our city and our community, breaking down the divisions of race, ethnicity , social position and religious difference and bringing understanding and harmony.
To end our prayer let us join with the company of saints of the past who have offered this old prayer for courage
Give unto us. God. The spirit of brightness, that no shadow may oppress our spirits and no gloom may darken the light by which others live: and that we may face with courage whatever the day may bring: for the sake of Jesus Christ.
A prayer from Pat Dale
webmaster@mosm anuniting.org
MOSMAN UNITING CHURCH