Let us pray for the whole people of God in Christ Jesus, for all people according to their needs.

Comforting God, we find ourselves in a wilderness of pressure and stress from the world around us. Temptation is everywhere. We often put status and greed first in our lives; they take over YOUR place in our hearts. Turn us back to you. Bring your good tidings into our lives so that your voice shouts in our ears. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. (Isaiah 40:1-11)

Steadfast God, speak peace to your people. Raise us up to be faithful servants so that all who meet us may know your love through us. Increase our faith and help us to proclaim your message to the people of this and every land. Help us to respond joyfully to your call so that all might live in harmony. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. (Ps 85:8-13)

God of all the ages, come and do not be slow. Help us to examine our lives so that we might be found ready at your coming. Lead us in your paths of holiness and godliness so that we may live with you in eternity. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. (2 Peter 3:8-15a)

Creator and Redeemer, send us into the wilderness with willing hearts to proclaim your love. Help us to reach deeply into our own generosity so that your Church might not only survive but become a loud voice in the community. Make us, your servants, strong workers in your name. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. (Mark 1:1-8)

Great Healer, we ask your presence with all who suffer in mind, body and spirit. Today we lift in prayer...

Are there others we should include in our prayers?

Touch them with your gift of wholeness. Strengthen them in faith and give them peace. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Into your hands, O Lord, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your mercy; through your son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(Comments to Linda at Linda_Kraft@Ecunet.org.)

Linda Kraft, Pastor at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Trumbull, CT