By Cathi Cackler-Veazey of Independence, Missouri, USA

The path will not always be easy, the choices will not always be clear, but the cause is sure and the Spirit will bear witness to the truth, and those who live the truth will know the hope and the joy of discipleship in the community of Christ.

God of all nations,
We come to you today in the spirit of humility to recognize your great power in each individual life, in the communities and corporations of human design, in the governments of the nations, and in everything on this terrestrial ball. We seek harmony in a world of chaos. We seek peace where separation reigns. For we know that when people live in an awareness of the connectedness of everything through your spirit, peace is the natural result.

This prayer is for peace. Not the peace that is only resident in signatures on pieces of paper. We know there have been tens of thousands of such treaties between nations through time.

This is a prayer for the peace which lives in the hearts of people. Living prayer expresses a deeper, more lasting commitment. It is a prayer founded on a love that transcends differences. It brings those from many cultures and religions together. The language of the world religions speaks that unity. A oneness binds us in the mutual wish for peace. As a Christian would say, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.” As a Buddhist would say, “When righteousness is practiced to win peace, he who so walks shall gain the victory and all fetters utterly destroy.” As a Jew would say, “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good tidings, who publishes peace.” As a Hindu would say, “The noble minded dedicate themselves to promoting peace and the happiness of others, even those who injure them.”

God of all nations, though we look at you through separate eyes, let us see the truth you share with each of us. Call us to accountability as peacemakers. Strengthen us for the journey toward harmony. Bless us with the vision of possibility. Amen.

Prayer Phrase

“We, who are many, are one body in Christ” (Romans 12:5).

Spiritual Practice

Spiritual Learning

Meditate on a time when you learned about community from someone who took you in, fed you, taught you, shared stories and wisdom with you. What did you learn? Prayerfully create a list of qualities you need to learn from spiritual mentors and friends. Then write the names of people who serve as teachers, models, coaches, or encouragers in your life as a disciple. Offer a prayer of gratitude and blessing for these spiritual “relatives” and friends.

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.