By Linda Brenner of Redford, Michigan, USA

Let us then pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.

God, our Creator,

We wonder how to pray for peace. Each time we rejoice in the news of a peaceful resolution to conflict, chaos erupts in another form and place.

In our interpersonal relationships, sometimes we experience harmony, the harmony which stirs hope within us that peace can exist in our world. However, other times we are overcome by fear, weariness, or discouragement which causes us to retreat to our passive, quiet places leaving the work of peace for those we consider more capable.

Help us to hear the voice of your spirit while we are in our quiet places. May our yearnings for peace become tools for you to teach us how to be makers of peace.

Heighten our awareness that each of us is created in your likeness.

Remind us that conflict begins with the disagreement of two people, and caution us when we are tempted to take sides or gather others to our way of thinking.

Bless us with discernment that we may offer our gifts to the cause of justice within our area of influence. 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.