16/1/14 - English

Lord, the interim nuclear deal between Iran and the U.N. Security Council countries takes effect this month. We thank you for this opportunity for diplomacy to win over violence, and pray that this is only the first of many agreements in the move toward global disarmament and peace. Lord in your mercy…

Merciful God, we continue to pray for the refugees of the Yarmouk refugee camp in Syria. The past few days have seen their situation deteriorate even further, as many who were supposed to leave for medical treatment were stopped from leaving and aid groups trying to reach the camp were turned away by fighting. In this desperate situation, we trust in your strength and mercy, and plead for you to open a path so that help may come to these people. Lord in your mercy…

Tensions continue to rise in Palestine, seen in frequent protests across the West Bank and frequent incursions into Palestinian towns by the Israeli army.While some protest against the U.N. Relief and Works Agency for decreasing its aid, some nonviolently resist attacks by Israeli settlers, and some continue to demonstrate against the separation wall, we recognize that we must draw our strength and courage from you as we yearn for justice to be done.Please empower those engaging in nonviolent resistance and inspire us to continue working for peace in this land. Lord in your mercy…

Lord, this month we are seeing many visitors come to the Sabeel office; we thank you for this opportunity to not only tell the stories of Palestinians living under occupation, but to share with others the liberating power of the Gospel for oppressed peoples around the world. Please continue to bless us through the visitors who come to listen, and through our programs among the local community. Lord in your mercy…

Lord, we pray along with the World Council of Churches for the countries of Cyprus, Greece, and Turkey. Lord in your mercy…