Prayers of the People: Teach Us to Be Relentless in Our Pursuit for Justice

As part of our 40 Days of Hope Lenten calendar, we asked various supporters in our network to share reflections on why they pray, serve, or give. We've adapted a prayer that was recently shared at a Reunion Church service. www.hfny.org/lent

Lord, we bring before you the needs of the church, the world, and all in need. For those feeling hopeless and wondering, “Where are you, God?”: reveal yourself to us. Come to us in our time of desperation. Remind us of your spirit who is always in us and among us.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For those weary from pursuing justice and peace: we ask for your comfort and consolation. We ask that you would do a renewing work among your people. Teach us to be like you, relentless in our pursuit for justice. Remind us that you are God over all things, working even when we don’t see it or understand it.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For the leaders of the world: may their hearts be bent towards justice and peace. May they seek to prioritize human dignity. Grant them wisdom and discernment that they may make decisions in accordance with your will and towards the liberation of all peoples.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord, you are the mighty Protector. May your hand of safety be upon each one experiencing displacement, violence, and the catastrophes of war. Lord, in your power, bring them to safety. Lord, you are the God who heals. Please bring healing to those who are hurting. Lord, you are the God of comfort. Bring rest and relief to weary hearts.

Father, you are Sovereign. You are God of all. May we never lose sight of your Holy will for your people. And may we learn to trust in your divine plan.

Help us, Lord, to not be desensitized to the violence around us. May we learn to never take our privilege for granted. Bend our hearts towards justice for all your people and towards works of mercy. Teach us to walk in your likeness, as friends to the oppressed, as advocates for liberation and as messengers of peace and love.

Amen.

Siyona Samuel is a member of Reunion Church and a dedicated volunteer who loves serving with The Father's Heart.