Gracious God, we come humbly before you this morning, remembering that our strength, our hope is totally in you. Thank you for your word; we pray for increased understanding and insight, for courage to walk in your way. Remind us daily that your word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path.
We would also echo the prayer of David as he poured out his heart to you God. (Psalm 119)
“May my cry come before you, O Lord; give me understanding according to your word. May my supplication come before you; deliver me according to your promise.
May my lips overflow with praise, for you teach me your decrees. May my tongue sing of your word for all your commands are righteous. May your hand be ready to help me, for I have chosen your precepts.
I long for your salvation, O Lord, and your law is my delight.
Let me live that I may praise you and may your laws sustain me.”
We grieve today for our world that seems to be writhing in pain. Compassionate God, the cries of the suffering and dying in Turkey and Syria rise with desperation. We rejoice with rescues that have occurred but pray your grace and comfort for those whose family members and friends have died.
Inspire generosity in our hearts and in the global community; grant strength & wisdom to all agencies and caregivers who serve and love, especially for those who reach out in the name of Jesus. May they be salt and light so that others can see Jesus in them. Grant each of us your wisdom as to your call on our lives as individuals; how do you desire to meet the needs of our world through us.
We pray for the many in our community who are currently suffering from COVID. Grant healing and strength to each as needed. For those living with grief, pain, loneliness, and struggle; God, meet their needs. For those awaiting test results, surgery or recovering from surgery, and those awaiting brighter days, we pray that they will experience your hope.
God we also praise you for answered prayer, for giving us daily life, breath, and strength. All of our hope lies in you. Thank you as well for the church, your body, this community of faith where we see your love in action. Help us to love others as you have loved us.
We offer all our prayers in the strong name of Jesus. Amen