By William Rounds

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.

Eternal God, your act of creation brought peaceful order out of chaos. We ask for your multiplying blessings upon our efforts as peacemakers.

We long for a peaceful world, a world of justice and mercy, a world of forgiveness and love. Remind us that such a world must begin in our hearts and minds and must spread through our families and then through an ever-widening circle of friends, neighbors, communities, and nations.

Forgive our unpeaceful acts of self-centeredness and greed. Challenge us to try again to be more peaceful in all our relationships.

Grant us in our hearts that peace that passes understanding and bless us in our desire to share that peace with our neighbors throughout this day.

This is our prayer in the name of the one who stilled the wind and waves with a word, even Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

Prayer Phrase

“For everything created by God is good” (1 Timothy 4:4).

Spiritual Practice

Joy of Gratitude

Stand, if possible, with arms outstretched. Imagine God filling your arms with all that you have: family, friends, and possessions. Hold out your arms until they feel tired. Now, bring your arms across your body. Place your hand over your heart and thank God for the abundance that fills your life. Sit for a time aware of that abundance. Then ask God to help you open your heart in gratitude and share freely with others.

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.