Sovereign Lord God, we recognize that
we are too often selfish, distracted and forgetful.
It is so easy for us to be that way. Why not?

Our world seems to revolve around ourselves.
But there are other people, some hurting people, needing a friend,
some looking to us, needing hope.
Needing God. They are a part of our world, too!

We are too often distracted by little things--new curtains for our bedroom, this or that game, this dress, that shirt--good things. Not that important.
O outgoing God, have mercy on us.
We too often forget about you and your purposes.
Yes, you want us to be delighted with good things, but you want us to care also about other people.

Help us to remember that your kingdom exists for everyone.
Everyone needs a home, an income, health care, justice and peace.
Help us not to get carried away with caring only about ourselves.
Help us to remember that your kingdom is bigger than us, our family,
our friends, our school, or even our church.

May your kingdom come closer now to our earth, even through us, through Jesus.

Amen.

Written by Mike Mast, retired pastor from Dalton, Ohio.