Prayer

Living God, lead us to paths of steadfast love, 

lead us to new life, and lead the world to peace and healing which you offer. 

Renew us, fill us and open our hearts to your presence.

 

God of the past, present and future, God in whom all things are renewed, we praise you. 

In the face of all that wearies and worries us at this present time, 

we remember your love and hope. 

 

As we walk the way of Jesus, his cross stands before us. 

Therefore, we trust you are never far from our sorrows. 

In Jesus you walk with us, you share our tears. 

 

You stand beside us when we do not know which way to turn. 

You are with us in times of joy and laughter. 

Help us to find these in the present moment. 

Renew our trust in your resurrection promises

 and draw near to us when we need you the most.

 

God of our lonely places and hard times, 

there is no place where your presence cannot be found. 

There is no situation beyond your love and care. 

 

Yet we confess we can sometimes lose our sense of your presence with us, 

when sorrows stack up or loneliness surrounds us. Forgive us we pray. 

Be near us as we go through every valley of shadow. 

Bring healing where there is pain, courage where there is fear, 

hope where there is despair.

Amen