FOR ALL THESE THINGS, WE PRAY TO YOU, O GOD

As we celebrate the National Day of Prayer, join us in this intercession for the world, our nation, our state and our community:

Almighty and ever-living God, creator of a world in which any good thing is possible, we approach you in humility, knowing, as individual masterpieces of your handiwork, that we are imperfect and capable of grave errors. Forgive us our transgressions so that we may, with mended hearts, come to you with our pleas of mercy, guidance and bountiful provision.

With gratitude, we acknowledge the many blessings you have given us since the beginning of time, the works of glory that you will reveal to us this day and the acts of majesty we will encounter in the days to come.

O God, we are but fragile vessels in a tempestuous ocean. We earnestly seek the safe harbor of your ability to change the hearts of those who would do us harm. Intercede, we beseech you, on behalf of those whose mortal existence is imperiled by life-threatening conflicts among nations, sects, tribes, ethnic groups, neighbors and families.

Grant us the will and the means to act courageously on behalf of those who are starving, those who are dying of disease, those who suffer from treatable illnesses and those who tremble in fear of the assaults of evil.

Instill in those who hold religious authority an awareness of the needs of the faithful, so that they might use whatever means you place at their disposal to raise up saints and prophets in a world sorely in need of guidance, direction and godly perseverance.

Give to those who have attained high positions of government a sense of fairness and justice. Help them to understand they are entitled to divine inspiration but possess no divine right of civil power, so that they may accomplish those tasks that benefit those whom they serve.

Extend your comforting love to those who grieve for any reason.

Bestow peace upon our world, prosperity upon our nation, tranquility upon our state, a sense of cooperation upon our community, harmony in our families and joy within our hearts.

With awe and happy anticipation, we await that day when the mystery of your supreme fullness will be revealed. With boldness of spirit we praise your magnificent might which changes the world. And we live in the expectation that you will respond to our supplications according to our needs.

With thanksgiving for the power of prayer, help us to grow as responsible citizens on this earth and in your kingdom. We humbly ask you to hear our prayers, O God, now and forever.

Amen.