Prayer

Healing Power,

Today’s holiday invites us not only to honor the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., but also to remember how each of us are called, to invest our time, energy, and passion in the work of improving our communities. Inspired by Dr. King’s legacy, lead us further in responding to the brokenness we see around us. May we each find the place where our unique gifts and desires meet the world’s greatest needs and act accordingly. That our dreams will continue to become our reality, we pray. Amen.

Prayer

God who hears us,

It takes so much strength to be patient in the midst of our problems and to wait for your guidance and intervention. We are so eager to fix things ourselves that we often overlook the subtle ways you are in fact coming to us, through family or friends, or new opportunities, all of which take time to develop. Give us the strength of real patience today, that we might wait for you to be faithful to your promises over us. For all those who are especially in need, and who are crying out for help, may we become listening ears on your behalf today, and speak a good word. Amen.

Prayer

God of peace,

When you walked among us, you were more at home with those who were poor than with those who used wealth to flaunt their importance. And you taught us that anxiety over money and possessions can prevent us from living in joy, gratitude, and peace. Help us become more courageous in following your example and embodying your words. Let peace flow from our lives as we share with all those in need. So that even in times of scarcity, we will be satisfied knowing we are living as we should, and we have what we need. Amen.

Prayer

God our comfort,

It’s normal for us to feel lost at times and anxious about where we are headed. Especially in times of uncertainty and change, we grow fitful and restless and go looking for comfort and security wherever we can find it. When we experience this sense of discomfort, lead us instead to simplicity and the peace of a spirit anchored in you. Lead us inward to our spirit’s foundations, where we may find you there in our hearts, speaking words of comfort that we so long to hear. All will be well. Amen.

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.