By Bob Kyser of Independence, Missouri, USA

The temple shall be dedicated to the pursuit of peace. It shall be for reconciliation and for healing of the spirit.

O God, our creator and sustainer,
Today, in this moment of encounter with you
We pause to express our gratitude
For the assurance of your divine presence with us.

We acknowledge your gift of peace
That comes to us through the spirit of your son, Jesus Christ.

As we seek to open that gift of Christ's Peace in our lives
May we also commit to sharing that gift with others.
May our lives be a living witness demonstrating the fruit of that peace
Inviting all to share.

We pray for peace in our relationships, especially in the context of family.
May our family, your family, refocus from what divides to that which unites us.
Thus moving toward your peaceable kingdom
May all your creation be blessed.

In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.

Prayer Phrase

“He has made everything beautiful in its time” (Ecclesiastes 3:11).

Spiritual Practice

All That Lives

Take a walk and find a tree where you can sit (or imagine walking and sitting beneath a tree). Lean against the tree and feel the texture of the bark. Listen to the wind move through the leaves. Sit quietly and sense God’s presence flowing through the trees and all creation. Offer a prayer of gratitude for your connection to all that lives. Ask for grace to discern and carry out one small act of justice or healing that creates greater wholeness for the plants, animals, trees, waters, air, and land that are part of the community of creation.

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.