Prayer

God of work,

Lead us on a path by which we can continue integrating our work within our deepest sense of purpose, mission, and calling before you. For we are each called, in our own way, to be an instrument of your goodness and love for the world. Let us envision our work as part of that greater mission so that, whatever we do, it will become a sign that you are renewing a world in need through us. For the sake of those in need, especially those who are poor, dying, and underserved, we pray. Amen.

Prayer

Spirit of Freedom,

As a ministry, we commit to exposing the injustice of human trafficking wherever it lurks—in our communities, across our nation, and throughout the world. Empower us to be more effective in our concern to identify, liberate, and heal the victims of trafficking wherever we find them. May we be led into greater cooperation with other services and organizations working to protect and defend the most vulnerable among us, so that all will live freely in the fullness of their dignity. Empowered by your spirit within us, we pray. Amen.

Prayer

Living Word,

We do well to remember that constantly talking is not the same thing as actually communicating. Some of us need this reminder more than others, yet it’s good advice all the same! Help us learn to speak well; with sincerity, patience, and gentility; and above all with love. Lead us in paths of genuine dialogue, so we can foster a culture of healing and inclusion, where all can flourish. May we be focused on shaping a future together through the words we share today. As a people, a nation, and world, we pray. Amen.

Prayer

God of tomorrow,

We strive to be responsible planners, using all of our resources as wisely as we can. Yet we know there are contingencies we simply cannot account for. Help us build into our lives a readiness to embrace the unexpected, so that we might be agile in responding to the changes and use them for good. As we pursue your mission of extending your compassionate ministry, help us rely on each other in the midst of disruption and to adjust our plans as needed. As one ministry, called by your name, we pray. Amen.

Prayer

God of life and light,

We rise up today in joy and gratitude, thankful for the light that has come into our lives through the birth of your son. Today, on the Feast of Epiphany, we think of the wise men bringing their gifts from afar, and we see in their journey a symbol of every nation being drawn to your light. None are excluded, all are welcome; for a new day of hope and liberation has dawned on the world. With praise and thanksgiving, we pray. Amen.

Prayer

God of love,

Forgive us for those times when we fail to guard our tongues and cut others down with our words. Help us protect one another from hurtful speech and cultivate spaces where conversation gives life. Let our words be used to build each other up and to support a healing environment where people are free to be authentic and sincere. And if nothing else, help us follow the wisdom of the ages: if there’s nothing nice to be said, don’t say anything at all! Amen.

Prayer

God of peace,

Anxiety is weird, because it can tempt us to think we’re doing something productive when, in fact, we are not. No amount of worrying can help us deal with the problems we face. You called us instead to put down our anxieties and let go of our worries, that we might learn to rely more fully on you and the goodness you have laced through the world. Help us embrace your teaching more fully and let tomorrow worry about itself, for today is a day to be strengthen by joy, not sorrow. Amen.