Prayer focus: November 2013
PRAYERS FOR PEACE AND JUSTICE
‘Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. He said: “In a certain town there was a judge who neither feared God nor cared what people thought. And there was a widow in that town who kept coming to him with the plea, ‘Grant me justice against my adversary.’ For some time he refused. But finally he said to himself, ‘Even though I don’t fear God or care what people think, yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will see that she gets justice, so that she won’t eventually come and attack me!’” And the Lord said, “Listen to what the unjust judge says. And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off?
I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?”’ (Luke 18:1-8 NIV).
Reflection
If unjust judges respond to constant pressure, how much more will a great and loving God respond to us? If we know he loves us, we can believe he will hear our cries for help.
Do we believe that God not only answers personal prayers, but also those we offer on behalf of his world that is groaning under the weight of injustice?
Prayer*
Eternal God, in whom the whole family of earth is one, breathe your Spirit into our hearts that we may establish a global community of trust and fellowship, justice and peace. Illumine the darkness of our minds that we may see your light, think your thoughts, and serve you by advancing the greater good of all people. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
*Adapted from the Book of Common Prayer.
Reflection
The Lord reigns for ever. As we see suffering, pain, turmoil and strife, do we become defeated or are we moved to respond? Are we part of the solution?
I know that the Lord secures justice for the poor
and upholds the cause of the needy.
Surely the righteous will praise your name,
and the upright will live in your presence.
Psalm 140:12, 13.
Prayer*
Most merciful God, we remember before you all poor and neglected people whom it would be easy for us to forget: the homeless and destitute, the old and sick, and all who have no one to care for them. Help us bring healing to those who are broken in body or spirit, turning their sorrow into joy. Through the power of Jesus Christ who, for our sake, became poor that we might be made rich. Amen.
*Adapted from the Book of Common Prayer.
Reflection
Do I have a role to play in seeking peace, justice and healthy relationships in my home, church and community?
Psalm 146
Prayer*
Lord God, look with compassion upon all people who live with injustice, terror, disease and the threat of death as their constant companions. Have mercy upon us. Help us eliminate cruelty to one another. Strengthen those who seek to establish equality through the law and equal opportunities for all. Grant that all may enjoy a fair portion of the riches of the earth. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
*Adapted from the Book of Common Prayer.
Reflection
And so… to serve!
Psalm 139
Prayer*
Heavenly Father, as Jesus came not to be served but to serve, we ask you to bless all who follow in his footsteps and offer themselves in service to others. In ministering to their enemies, the needy, outcast and stranger, may they do so with wisdom, patience and courage as a mark of love for him who laid down his life for all people. In the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
*Adapted from the Book of Common Prayer.
The Monthly Prayer Focus is provided by the International Social Justice Commission
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