O Lord, God of mystery and blessing,
hear our prayers and the earnest cries of our hearts.
Uphold your people in your strength,
and give your attention to doing justice in our world.
Judge of our hearts, come to us in the quietness;
examine us and make us pure so we might do your will.
Teach our mouths to speak your blessings,
and keep us walking in the paths of your perfect love.
We call upon you, O God, on behalf of those who long for your presence;
hear the prayers of your people and give an answer to those who seek you.
Protect all those who are in danger,
from those they know as enemies,
from those they knew as friends or family,
or from the unseeing forces of nature.
Gather your people under the shadow of your wings.
Rise up to protect those who suffer from sickness, resentment, oppression, or poverty.
Open our hearts to compassion for all who are in need,
and teach us to extend your mercy and healing.
Deliver us, O Lord, from all fear,
and give hope even to those who face death,
that in this world and in the next we may see your face and hear your blessing.
We pray in Jesus’ name, saying together:
The Lord’s Prayer
Submitted by Rev. Nathan Williams, Echo Hill Presbyterian Church, Cedar Rapids IA
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