Christ Jesus
we thank you that in devastation loss, when the whole world seems to have been turned on its head
you come to us
where we are
and walk alongside us
listening to our pain, our worries, our struggles
not judging, but supporting
You walk beside us in many ways
giving us companions on the road
who support us
they are angels in disguise
friends,
family,
strangers sometimes, who offer a smile or a complement which not only brightens our day, but reminds us that you, Lord Jesus are with us
even carrying us when we struggle to walk ourselves
Lord God
we bring before you those who need someone to walk beside them
those standing up against injustice, in what ever form it may take
those supporting loved ones who are ill in body, mind or spirit
those grappling to come to terms with devastating news
in a few moments of quiet, we bring before you those known to us who need you, Lord Jesus, to walk beside them
[silence]
bless them with your love, your presence, Lord God
through your holy spirit moving in their lives
and, for those known to us, may we be the ones who are Christ walking beside them
who are Jesus bringing comfort and support
Teaching Christ
we thank you for explaining your life, your path, the scriptures to your disciples
before and after your resurrection
we praise and thank you that explaining your life, your path, the scriptures still goes on
through those who lead worship here, and in churches all across our land
through those who offer care and compassion to the weak and vulnerable in our society]
through charities who work hard in war and famine torn countries
we especially praise and thank you for those who taught us your life, your path, the scriptures
ministers, Sunday School teachers
neighbours
fellow Christians
may we always learn, for our journey with the Risen Christ is not yet through
may we be the ones, in this time, in this place
who teach Jesus life, path and the scriptures
through the way we show love and compassion
Amen