Prayers

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Phil and Margaret Brown. on May 31, 2009 at 10:42pm

Intercession prayers from Chingford United Reformed Church at Pentecost 2009

Father, we thank and praise you for once again having this opportunity to share our concerns with you.
This rapidly changing modern world is fraught with difficulties and we are acutely aware that human beings must learn to communicate properly. At this time of Pentecost, we pray that well we do or say while serving your will be relevant, understandable and meaningful to all those for whom we care.
Every day, the news confronts us with the problems that human beings create, the conflicts, hate and inhumanity that brings misery to millions; the greed, avarice and selfishness that brings ruin to much of your creation; and an unequal sharing of the bounty that you have provided.
Lord, we pray for good, enlightened, wise leadership to emerge amongst the peoples of the world. less the compassionate as they work to protect the weak and vulnerable; bless the wise as they seek ways for human beings to prosper without further damaging this fragile planet.
And, Father, we ask forgiveness for those among the leaders or our own nation who for greed have betrayed their trust. We pray that at this time of economic crisis, they may one again learn to make service to the community their first priority.
Lord, next we pray for all the victims of war and those who provide them with protection and relief. Father, bless humanity's shepherds and their sheep.
Also, we pray for those that lead nations into conflict. May they learn wisdom, that winning a war seldom solves a problem; only finding and dealing with the root causes can do that. We ask you to bless the peacemakers and spread your spirit of love and reconciliation throughout the nations.
We remember in particular North Korea (once again posturing while its people starve), Sri Lanka (where the gap between Tamils and Singhalese still remains), Burma (where again democracy is further threatened), the Middle East, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Darfur.
Now, Lord, although we care about the problems of the wider world, we know that we must first care for those that we meet daily: our family, friends and neighbours. We pray that you will keep your loving arm around them and strengthen us when we can act as your instrument in meeting their needs.
Today we pray for: Lena, Mary, Rosemund, Alan, Brenda, Roger and Stephen.
Now we will take a few moments to silently place before you those individuals that each of us knows need you beside them at this time.
Lastly, Lord, we pray for your church. Over the centuries we have split into so many different parts but we are acutely aware that we are all just limbs of one body. All are necessary for us to function fully in your name. While the hands bind the wounds of world, the legs may be carrying us to the place that you need us to be.
Bind us together, Lord, guide us as we seek new ways to serve and spread your love. Forgive us when we make mistakes and bless us so that your son's love shines through each and every one of us.
Father, we bring all these prayers to you in the name of your son, our Lord, Jesus Christ.

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Lynda Keen on June 3, 2009 at 6:09pm

For Chabo, recovering from heart surgery and for Jackie, who bears the brunt of taking care of him alongside a busy working life.
God bless you both. Lynda

• ▶ Reply