Thursday, April 10, 2014

10/4/14 - English

Violence continues to define many countries of the Middle East, and we wish to pray particularly for the people of Egypt, Syria, and Iraq. Riots in Egypt have left several people dead, many Syrian towns have been completely destroyed in the civil war, and bombs continue to plague the Iraqi capital. Lord, please refresh the weary and sustain those who are weak, giving them strength to bring about a just end to these conflicts. Lord in your mercy…

Lord, the peace negotiations hang on a thin thread with only a month left until the deadline. Lord, we pray that Israel would honor its commitments to release the prisoners, and that a way would be found out of the deadlock. Regardless of the negotiation status, please bring the beginning of a period of justice-seeking rather than appeasement, and solidarity instead of selfishness. Lord in your mercy…

As Christians in Palestine prepare to celebrate Easter in the coming week, we are more mindful than ever of the restrictions and barriers put in place by the occupation forces. Though Christ triumphantly rode into Jerusalem, ushering in a new covenant based on justice for the oppressed, many Palestinians have been barred from the holy city for decades. Merciful God, please bless the celebrations, helping us to remember Christ’s sacrifice and take joy in the promise of liberation from pain and oppression. Lord in your mercy…

We pray for your presence to be with the Sabeel staff as they continue to work for justice and peace in Palestine. Please bless the programs this week, including a school program, an egg hunting activity for children, and ­a community Easter event by Sabeel Nazareth.Lord in your mercy…

Lord, we pray alongside the World Council of Churches for the countries of Timor-Leste, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Lord in your mercy…


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