Today in our prayers for the people of Norway.

Prayer for Peace

Scott Murphy

It is in your name of love, peace, hope, and joy that we call upon you today, God, as we pause in this sacred space to be present with you. We recognize that you have been and continue to be present with us. It is in this awareness of your presence that we find the capacity to live with hope and assurance amid the uncertainties we face in our lives, cultures, and, at times, in the church.

In this time of discovery through the practices of discernment, we endeavor to be open to where your Spirit is leading us. Yet, even in our yearning to be open and mindful to where you call us, our human nature of fear, doubt, uncertainty, and differences of opinion can cause us to close ourselves off to the guidance of your Spirit. When this happens, our anxiousness can draw us away from the comfort and peace your Spirit brings in the midst of difficult questions.

Let the depth of our love for you empower us to have the depth of love for each other. Make it possible for us to see and hear and share with each other as precious brothers and sisters who are formed in your son, Jesus Christ. Draw from us the full awareness that we belong to each other. And in this belonging, help us remember our call to care for one another as a sacred creation of you and your guidance to bring us peace.

In the name of the prince of peace we pray, Amen.