Prayer 1479: Changed by prayer

Singing to a national song in sign language.

Holy One, we gather before You in praise and in prayer, for we know that prayer changes things.

As we breathe in your presence, O God, change our hearts, that we may let go of all that separates us from You and each other.
Change our perspective, that we may see with new eyes, and rejoice at your steadfast love revealed in creation.
Change our path, that we may walk in love, leaving behind the thickets of sin and suspicion that seek to ensnare us. 

Renew a right spirit within us, that we may build a new life of service and discipleship, your kingdom to come. 
Blessed Savior, abide within us, and bless and keep those for whom we pray.

Amen.

Prayer 1478- Abundance and Healing

The students' love and care for each other was evident at the school for the deaf we visited in Havana.

Almighty One, we give You thanks for the gift of this day, and offer You our hearts and bodies. 

Teach us to use our lives to help mend the hurts that have been inflicted by ourselves and by others. 
Strengthen us to renounce the ways of scarcity and greed that are the roots of fear and division. 
Make us humble seekers of wisdom and joyful witnesses to the gospel of abundance You proclaim, Lord Christ. 

Blessed Redeemer, Lord Jesus, abide within our hearts this day, and inspire us to work for justice, mercy, and true peace. 
Send forth your Spirit, O Merciful One, to all who suffer in body, mind, or spirit.

Amen.

Prayer 1477: As rain comes down from heavens

Two weeks ago in Cuba, we met these wonderful young students at a school for the hearing impaired in Havana, and they wanted to have their picture taken together.

Lord Jesus, we breathe in your peace, and breathe out your truth: hear us as we draw near in gratitude and awe. 

As rain falls from the heavens and prepares the ground for spring, let us soak in your wisdom and bear forth your love, O Lord. 
All creation is in your hand, O God, and you call us to tend and love it and each other: may we live into our call with joy. 
May we go into the fields of the world rejoicing, with humility, with amiable hearts, with hands prepared to work. 

Spirit of the Living God: gather within your comfort all those who face trials or uncertainty today, and grant us peace.

Amen.