Lord God
we praise you that you do not look at outward appearance or actions, but into the very heart of each one of us
you know, even when other criticise us, our true motives
may all our motives be according to your gracious will for us,
for this place
and for all your people
May we always speak words of peace, reassurance, encouragement, so others may be built up, rather than torn down
and, when we hear words of negativity, shaming, criticism
speak up in love to show a different way
a way which creates, rather than destroys
a way which builds, rather than tears down
a way which loves, rather than hates
Loving Christ
you spoke words of peace, forgiveness and reassurance regularly to your followers
we thank and praise you we are counted among your disciples, through proclaiming in our hearts and on our lips “Jesus is Lord”
we are aware, we live in a time of great uncertainty
were people and places seem more divided than ever
may peace, forgiveness, reassurance be in places of tension
pain
suffering
may the powerful and rich have hearts filled with love
that all they do, all the decisions they make
can bring peace, forgiveness, reassurance
to those who desperately need it
and may we continue to pray each and every day for those in government, local, national and international
that all their work will reflect that plan you have for the world, Lord God
where your kingdom comes and your will is done here it is in heaven
Amen