By Sheryl Holstein of Ellijay, Georgia, USA

But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.

Dear God,

We confess to times of insensitivity, ignorance, judgment, indifference, hatred, and greed. Help us tear down the walls that separate us from one another. Lord, let us see you in the faces of our brothers and sisters. Let us hear the cries of the frightened.

Living on every continent are those who are oppressed, hungry, and heavily burdened. As we merge in your love, help us unfold the red bud of passion as we become a people of compassion. Let us keep the lamp of life burning. Free us from our own limitations that we might free others. Renew in us your Spirit, that we might be faithful to one another in your love.

Together we can build your community, in our hearts, with our minds, words, and deeds. May our hands join, our minds unite, and our hearts beat as one.

This is our prayer of peace. We lay it at your feet that it might be acceptable and we all might be healed in your love.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Prayer Phrase

“I am about to do a new thing” (Isaiah 43:18).

Embrace Abundance

Take a slow breath and open your hands. Consider one thing you have received—love, grace, time, resources, or opportunity. Now ask: “What has been given to me that I can share with someone else?” Hold that thought for a moment. As you breathe in, say: “I receive with gratitude.” As you breathe out: “I give faithfully with generosity.” Pray: “May I trust there is enough when I choose to share what I have for the welfare of all.”

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.