May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. - Romans 15:13
This week we lift up prayers for those serving our communities in many ways. We are particularly thankful for their service during this time. Join us in prayer.
Heavenly Father, we worship you through our prayers. Our prayers glorify you, our God who hears his creation groan. Our prayers declare your Almighty hand as our only God, our only Savior, author of life. During the COVID crisis, as it changes plans around the world, we acknowledge our need for you.
What kept you on the cross, Lord? What made you stay?
Be near those in essential services keeping order for our most basic needs. Lord, provide for their basic needs and the needs of their families. God who moves mountains, protect them. Give them ears to hear your comfort and eyes to focus on you during the storm. Health care workers, mental health clinicians, pharmacists, first responders, essential supply and infrastructure manufacturers, the list of those bearing the weight of responsibility for others remains long. Thank you for their sacrifice. Our prayers bring offerings of praise for the willingness to love others in your name.
Lord, would you fill them with the same Spirit that held you on the cross? May your Spirit bring them peace in whispered comforts that the power of the resurrection brings new life.
As relief workers return home from missions abroad, we think of those left behind.
Lord, provide new opportunities for food, shelter, education, and clean water to communities whose needs are not contained by a pandemic. For your servants returning from the field, give them your Sabbath rest, reassure them you have not abandoned them or the communities they love. Prompt us to give sacrificially to the needs that know no borders.
Long term care supports, such as addictions rehabilitation centres and specialized care homes have released residents living in group homes this week to isolation at home. Some are vulnerable as they return to environments that may delay recovery or hinder healing.
Wonderful Counselor, be near those transitioning home and create new pathways to restoration and reconciliation. We pray for abundant new life for those hurting and healing and ask that you relieve isolation by blessing them with your palpable presence.
Are you looking for resources for your church and community in response to the virus? The CRC has helpful suggestions at crcna.org/covid19
For the 37 million people living in households that struggle with hunger in the United States, COVID-19 presents unique challenges. It is clear that private individuals and organizations cannot mobilize the resources the U.S. government can to support those at risk of hunger during this crisis.
Contact your legislator to make Pandemic Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program available to those who need it.
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