Lord of creation, as you made the earth and all that is in it, send your creative powers to mold the hearts of your people. Remove hatred from our hearts that they might beat with love for you and for our neighbor. Remove the apathy that keeps us from welcoming the stranger. Let compassion flow through our veins and transform our world.

Lord of the nations, grant wisdom to all policy-makers and leaders that they may govern with wisdom and justice. Remove the clamor from our ears that we might hear your guiding voice. Remove the scales from our eyes that we might see past skin color and love one another in Christ’s name. Send peace into the world that men and women, young and old, might live freely without fear.

Lord of power, whose strength is revealed through weakness, empower us by your Holy Spirit. Remove fear from our souls that we might serve you boldly. Remove hatred and dissent from our hearts that we might be instruments of your peace. Remove arrogance from our minds that we might walk in humility and truth. Draw us to yourself that we might abide in your presence and sing your praises with one tongue.

Lord of compassion, reach out to the poor, needy, hungry, imprisoned and homeless. Remove their suffering and isolation that they might know wholeness and comfort. Remove the barriers of injustice and bureaucracy that they might find new hope, new life and new homes. Bless LIRS and all organizations and individuals who offer time, talents and treasures to alleviate pain and persecution in our world.

In Christ’s name we pray, amen.