By Steve Bolie of Clive, Iowa, USA

And how blessed are they! For they did publish peace; they did publish good tidings of good; and they did declare unto the people that the Lord reigneth.

Inviting God,

You invite us, as disciples of Jesus Christ, to full immersion in your mission. We experience your Holy Spirit prodding us to respond anew to your invitation. It feels doable.

Then we think about the challenges in the world. There is so much poverty to be abolished, hunger to be ended, and peace and justice to be promoted. In particular, the institutions and forces that disrupt our personal peace and threaten the Earth are so powerful. It’s all pretty overwhelming, God. So, we turn to you in this prayer for peace.

Help us be immersed in Christ’s peace so we experience peace in our hearts and minds. Lead political leaders to recognize the worth of every person in the world, whether friend or adversary, leader or citizen. Peace must be possible, because peace is from Christ. Make it so through us and because we pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Prayer Phrase

“Love your neighbor as yourself” (Romans 13:9).

Spiritual Practice

Healing for Broken Spirits

Begin with quiet prayer. Ask God to help you detect some “sore places” in the body of Christ and God’s creation. Become aware of people who feel separated, wounded, or left out. Reflect on or write a short journal entry of healing words to at least one person who comes to mind. Ask God for words that will touch this person’s broken spirit like healing ointment. Keep this person in your heart and prayers today and act on any ideas that come to bring blessing and wholeness.

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.