Shepherding One
We praise and thank you that we are your flock and you are our Shepherd
that you care for us
love us
keep us safe from enemies
and speak tenderly to us
for you know each one of us
and call us by our names
[pause]
we thank you for those who help to care for us
neighbours who wave and say hello
wee shops who go above and beyond at the moment
the chance to get out for fresh air
the appearance of new born lambs in the fields over the past couple of weeks
the bluebells coming into flower
the singing of the blackbird and robin
the call of the osprey and kite
Oh, Lord God, we thank you that we are so blessed with these gifts around us
[pause]
we recall those who live in flats, with no outside space
children who can’t play with their pals
young lovers, not hold one another
and many more, know and unknown to us for whom this time is especially difficult
[pause]
we also pray for shop workers and security guards
for teachers and parents
for community leaders and groups
all trying to support others
[pause]
and, in our own time, in our own way, we pray for those people, places and situations which lay heavy on our hearts this day
[pause]
grant to us wisdom and compassion
care and love
to be your flock in this your world
Christ our Shepherd
Amen