Prayers used during the Service of Prayer and Discernment
at Washington National Cathedral January 20, 2003
Prayer:
O God, giver of life and truth, who has bound us together in a common
life: help us, we pray, in the midst of our struggle for justice and
truth, to confront one another without hatred or bitterness. Open our
hearts, and the hearts of those that think of themselves as our enemies,
to your ways of peace; that with your help we may work together with
mutual forbearance and respect to be instruments of reconciliation and
show forth your love; all this we ask through your Son Jesus Christ, our
Lord. Amen
Prayer
Almighty and ever gracious God: we come before as a people in need of hope
and the assurance of your love. We struggle to hear your words of promise
as spoken by your Son, Jesus Christ; but we are deaf to the cries of your
little ones. We are deaf to the cries of the poor at home and throughout
your world; and we are deaf to the city of poverty within our own hearts.
Open the ears of our hearts and souls that we may respond to the need that
is so evident before us. Help us to seek and serve your Son in all people;
and empower us to use the abundance of our time, treasure, and talents,
which you have so graciously bestowed on us, to your honor and to your
good purposes. All this we ask in the name of him who humbled himself for
our sake, your Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Prayer
O God of many names and many nations, you sent your Son into the world not
to condemn the world, but that the world may be saved through him: so
enflame us with a love of you that together we may show forth your
kingdom. Give us, and those who hold authority in this and every land,
wisdom to know your will, courage to speak your truth, and strength to
abandon retribution and seek your new creation. Free us from our bondage
to violence and enable us to see your world of Peace. Sustain us with your
spirit and uphold us in your love. All this we ask through him who is the
Prince of Peace, your son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
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