There is no part of life
you do not touch, O God,
infusing your rich fragrance— your God colours and God flavours – gritty and real—
getting in underneath the surface,
drawing out and lifting up, winding love around
until defences are lowered, barriers broken down,
and the power of your love reveals the beauty
you intended for all your children and creation.
May our actions draw attention to you,
to the richness you bring to all life
and the abundance you share,
setting the scene for us to share too.
Help us to bring light
into all the darkness of life, spreading hope for a better world,
a world where justice is made real by your people living together
in harmony.
Help us to bring salt
into the blandness of life,
encouraging vitality and joy in living
in a world that dares to hope
for the future that you promise
where all people will know themselves
loved and valued and treasured,
created in your image,
bringing you glory forever.
We pray too for those in our own community today. For those for whom life is hard – those living with illness, pain, grief, change, struggles – we pray. For those awaiting test results, surgery, and brighter days, we pray. And for those in our community of faith, especially our households of faith for this week, we pray. We are grateful for one another.
Finally, for the church, your body, your people, here in this world. We need your mercy and your grace to release that which holds us captive from fullness of life, your hearts desire. Breathe your spirit of life into your people and into your beloved world. Walk closely beside us each day.
We pray as those seeking to follow and learn from you.
Amen.
As Covid and significant cold/flu viruses circulate in our communities and families, we pray for healing, grace and protection over all.
We pray for our Households of Faith.
Bless each of our households of faith with deep faith that holds them. Amen