Lord, the Middle East is still reeling from the effects of
the massive winter storm which recently hit the region. While clean-up begins,
we pray for your protection over all the refugees who have been
disproportionately affected by the storm, and we pray for the people of Gaza
who face not only the crisis of severe weather but also an unblinking Israeli
blockade. We pray for your blessing on all those without power, heat, water, or
shelter. Lord in your mercy…
Gracious God, we ask for your blessing on Sabeel’s programs
this week, specifically for the Christmas Dinner. May it be a time of
fellowship, joy, and community as we prepare to celebrate the coming of your
son. Please bless Sabeel Nazareth’s activities and programs this week. Lord in
your mercy…
Merciful God, we daily give thanks for your gift to us that
is your son. May we celebrate thoughtfully, live joyously, and give generously,
and may this attitude of celebration continue past Christmas into the New Year.
Please bless our families, our friends, our neighbors, and the strangers around
us, and let us be a blessing to our communities. Lord in your mercy…
Lord, we pray alongside the World Council of Churches for
the countries of Benin, Côte d'Ivoire, and Togo, and next week for the
countries of Ghana and Nigeria. Lord in your mercy…