We shared this prayer at our daily staff Morning Prayer today, and offer it here with special intentions for all healthcare workers and first responders working to bring health and healing in this time of global pandemic.
Loving God, your compassions never fail and your mercies are new every morning. Heal us from suffocating fear, selfish pride, claims of invulnerability, panicked anxiety, and from the roots of our despair. Guide us all to be good neighbors, seeking to help each other in times of need.
Caregiving God, be with all your caregiving instruments as they respond: the doctors, nurses, researchers and all medical professionals who work among the sick. Give them courage and peace even as they put themselves at risk in the process. Strengthen them in body, mind and spirit, and encourage them even when their efforts seem futile.
Shepherding God, be with the leaders of all nations and communities. Give them foresight to act with charity and true concern for the well-being of the people they are meant to serve. Give them sound judgment to know how to respond appropriately, and wisdom as they work together to bring peace and healing on earth.
Emmanuel, God with us, whether we are home or away, surrounded by many people suffering from this illness or only a few, stay with us as we endure and mourn, persist and prepare. In our pain, our weariness, and our anxiety, surround us with your care, protect us by your loving might, and permit us once more to enjoy health and strength and peace, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.
Pastors Alicia & Ben Hilding
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, New Prague MN
One in the Spirit EDLA 