Loving Lord, as we hear in today’s Gospel, the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on you. We set our glaze upon you now as you hear our prayers we place before you.
We pray , “the poorest should not be made to pay for the imbalances of society.” Let us speak up against the injustice we see, help us to raise our voice to those with influence to change outcomes for those that are deprived.
We pray for the thousands of displaced people in Gaza -clutching clothes, tents, and other belongings – that have begun heading back to their homes. We pray peace will prevail as communities begin to rebuild their lives.
As the Prime Minister says the UK faces a “new threat” after the Southport murders, and that “terrorism has changed”. We pray that new rules and legislation will be implemented to protect our children and the vulnerable from any form of extreme violence.
We pray for those that are suffering, emotionally, physically, or mentally. May the Holy Spirit restore and soothe the weary and provide them with hopeful days ahead.
We pray for those that feel unloved. May they realise their true potential and recognise their worth to others and themselves.
We pause to pray in remembrance of our lost loved ones. We give thanks for the lives of those special individuals that lit up our world with unconditional love and devotion. We reflect upon how much we miss them and how grateful we are to have walked beside them.
Heavenly Father, fill us with your spirit. Stay with us as we embark on new adventures and when facing any challenges this year. Amen.