Prayers of the People, Easter B

We have walked
the journey
from the protest to the cross,
the cries of the crowd turning
from "Hosanna!"
to "Crucify!"
We walk to the tomb,
grieving and forlorn.
You are the God for whom we have waited,
so that you might save us.
You are the Lord for whom we have waited.

Your people are still living
in occupation
for none of us are free
until we all are free.
Liberation is a
dream ...
your dream for your people
and a vision of what is
to come.
You are the God for whom we have waited,
so that you might save us.
You are the Lord for whom we have waited.

The threat of violence
consumes us;
the abuse of power
terrifies us;
the fear of the other
influences us,
for what we value
is out of proportion to
the love for your people
to which we have been called.
You are the God for whom we have waited,
so that you might save us.
You are the Lord for whom we have waited.

Your people cower
in the shadows,
scorned and ashamed.
We have betrayed you.
We have betrayed our neighbor.
We are a people in need
of grace,
and standing
in the shadow of the cross
reminds us:
You are the God for whom we have waited,
so that you might save us.
You are the Lord for whom we have waited.

As the stone is rolled
from the entrance to the tomb,
we stand in stunned
surprise.
Death no longer has a hold.
Oppressors only rule in fear.
Shame is covered in grace.
Love wins!
You are the God for whom we have waited,
so that you might save us.
You are the Lord for whom we have waited.

You are the Lord,
the risen Lord,
the Son of God,
for whom we have waited.
​Hear our prayers.