Liturgies for Hope: 5 Prayers for Seeking JoySample

A Liturgy For Those Who Don’t Know How To Help

We have placed the weight of the world’s suffering upon our shoulders

instead of Yours, Oh Deliverer.

We are mired in hesitation and overwhelmed by stagnancy.

Our nation groans with need,

suffering multiplies by the hour,

and it is not the call of Your children to ignore our neighbors’ cries.

Where our understanding falters,

where our knowledge dwindles,

where our expertise ends,

Oh Lord, You meet us there.

Your Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path

when we cannot see the next right step.

Oh Loving God, You have said this is Your will:

to be joyful always,

to pray continually,

to give thanks,

to do justice,

to love kindness,

to walk humbly with You.

Our portion is You and Your redemptive work.

Show us how to be Your ambassadors to this hurting world.

Teach us how to use our hands and resources when words fall short.

Define Your ministry of reconciliation for each of us, Jesus.

Bless those who have not the time to feel helpless:

those on medical front lines,

those teaching their children,

those caring for the vulnerable,

those turning the gears of our cities.

Oh Author and Perfecter of our faith, You use us

to write a beautiful story amid crisis.

As parts of Your body, appointed by the same Spirit,

we do not receive Your grace in vain,

and we trust we have everything we need to abound in every good work.

Amen.

Reflection Question: What is one simple, practical way you can serve or love someone this week?