Light of the world, you stepped down into darkness,
open our eyes, let us see……
amidst war and poverty,
injustice and oppression,
open our eyes to see
that which is beautiful – crocuses blooming, helping hands, the flicker of a flame;
open our eyes to see that which is just…
when all are fed, have safe shelter, clean water;
open our eyes to see that which is pure…..
glorious sunrises, sweet maple syrup, the warmth and comfort of your love.
Sight-giver, when you walked this earth
you healed the blind, restoring sight
and you uncovered the blindness of your people.
When we are blind to our pride, arrogance, privilege,
walking in darkness,
forgive us
restore us.
Open our eyes to see your gracious presence in the world,
and in our lives,
your beauty and your justice.
Light of the world,
you come to us,
You see us – our joys and our pain,
Our strength and struggle,
Our beauty and brokenness.
We offer our prayers for one another – our households of faith for this week, those awaiting test results, surgery, or recovering from surgery. We pray for those who grieve and those walking with loved ones through the valley of the shadow of death. We pray for those who live with uncertainty – grant peace we pray and acceptance. We pray for those receiving treatments, or carrying the weight of physical or emotional pain. May your healing touch and wide embrace bring comfort and deep peace.
We also pray for all who return to classrooms tomorrow. May minds be open to learn and teach and grow. May relationships be healthy and wholesome. May the refreshment of March break sustain.
Finally, Light of the world,
we hold in prayer places and people in the world
where suffering is deep…..
The people of Ukraine and Russia….
Those impacted by floods, or storm, or starvation.
We pray, Your kingdom come, your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.
For yours is the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen. Amen!