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PRAY NOW: TODAY'S PRAYER
Oppressive/sacrificial relationships - Stephen and
Saul
. . . and the witnesses laid their coats at the feet of a young man named Saul.
PrayerGod,
even if I do not always find myself the bearer of eloquent words
that speak out clearly for the sake of justice,
and even if I never find myself
at the front of protests marches in the name of peace,
may you never find me holding the coats. |
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Even if I cannot shout as loud as my neighbour
in the ears of those who need to know the truth,
and even if I cannot always be singing in protest
for your sake and in the name of your love,
may you never find me holding the coats.
Even if I do not always speak out
on behalf of those who have been silenced by the powerful,
and even if I do always have the words to say
to those who wait to hear,
may you never find me holding the coats.
Instead, if I do not find myself on the frontline like this,
may I encourage with my blessing,
strengthen with my prayers,
nourish hope with my faith,
and hold with my love,
those who do.
Readings
Psalm 23 The Lord is my shepherd
John 15:5-10 Vine and branches
Act 9:54-60 The stoning of Stephen
1 John 3:11-18 Love one another
Prayer activity
Spend some time today searching through the paper or Internet for just one story
of someone involved in non-violent protest. Read their story and pray for them
and for those who gather round them in support and witness.
Prayer for the Church
Those who today, in the name of the Church and under the guidance of the Gospel,
will share their faith through word and action
especially in some local initiative
for outreach and evangelism.
Blessing
Listen for the rejoicing of heaven,
each time a word of love is spoken.
Listen for the encouragement of heaven,
each time a throat is cleared.
Listen for the blessing of heaven,
each time the kingdom is made known.
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