December 5, 2023 | www.barbarawilliams-skinner.com
O Lord, our God of peace, power, and endless possibilities for human flourishing, we bow before you, thanking you for all you have done in our lives. If it had not been for you on our side, we might have perished like a vapor and be no more. So, we thank you for keeping, sustaining, and protecting us through the many dangers, toils, and snares we faced.
Your word reminds us to “turn from evil and do good, seek peace and pursue it” (Psalm 34:14). More than ever, O God, we need your peace that passes all human understanding to guard our hearts and minds through Christ Jesus at a time of human trials, turmoil, and turbulence.
A time of multiple and costly wars sapping resources to uplift vulnerable Americans.
A time of senseless violence, too often at the hands of young people.
A time of leadership infighting; not advancing the common good.
A time when child poverty increased, especially among Black and Brown children.
A time when systemic discrimination weakened the citizenship rights of Americans of Color.
A time when our cherished democracy is viewed as a fading American reality.
O Lord, our God, your loving hand created us in the exquisite beauty of our diverse races, cultures, and backgrounds. In this season of thanksgiving and celebration of the Prince of Peace, open our eyes to see all your children as you see us through the eyes of love, forgiveness, and compassion. Open our ears to listen to even those with whom we disagree to discern avenues of commonality. And, as evidence of our love for you, give us minds committed to pursuing peace, with justice, for all your children, now and in the coming year. In your matchless and magnificent name, we pray, Lord God, Amen!
