Prayers for others
from Ian Bartholomew
God of love,
We are grateful for Your eternal comfort and encouragement: in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ; in the words of the Bible; in the support of loved ones and kind gestures from strangers. We live in volatile and uncertain days and it can be difficult to know what to pray for most earnestly. Thank you that you always hear our prayers.
Lord God, we are mindful of those who are unwell, walking through the darkest of valleys or struggling with other concerns. Just as Christ did during his earthly ministry, we ask that You would minister to their needs. We think of those that have died or are suffering as a result of the COVID-19 global pandemic. Heal the grief, discomfort and panic and grant clear hearts and minds to address the humanitarian, economic and governance challenges of this disease. We also pray for those that are working to develop medical responses such as a vaccine, diagnosis techniques and therapeutic treatment options. Grant wisdom, patience and endurance to all health and scientific professionals.
Comforting Shepherd, we pray for communities who do not share in the abundance we often take for granted here in Canberra, even during these relatively challenging times. We think of displaced people and refugees who yearn for a life free of persecution.
We reflect on the struggles of many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in Australia who continue to suffer as a consequence of prejudice and ignorance.
We contemplate the many people in this city, who have no food, no home, no family and feel they have no love. Help us to find the balance between grappling with disadvantage and aspiring for hope with these groups of people, and give us hearts that reflect Your heart for each one of Your sheep.
Loving Father, we give thanks for Gungahlin Uniting Church and Community Centre. We are grateful for all who find their spiritual home with us. By Your Holy Spirit, uphold and strengthen all who serve You, including Darren, Holly, Theo and Isabelle, our Church Council, all who contribute to worship, everyone who provides administrative support and all whose efforts may only be truly known to You.
Wonderful Lord, we bring these public prayers to You, together with all those unspoken in our hearts,
through Jesus Christ our Saviour.
Amen