Prayers of the People, OT 31A

Living God,
We come before you this day, lifting those who need your healing touch, your comforting presence, your reassuring word. Hear our prayers, we pray, and make us agents of healing in your name.
​​Lord, we are living in the both and tension. The river runs before us, and we are confronted with choices that are both exciting and terrifying at the same time. Longing for the fulfillment of your promises, Lord, we look to the future both with hope and with trepidation.

For those who step out in faith with courage in the face of fear and hold your Word ever before us, ... for those who stand in the water with us and direct our attention to the miracles you perform in our midst, we give you thanks. Bless these who have answered the call to lead your people, and grant them continued wisdom and clarity as we seek to follow where you lead.

For those who wander into the future, weary from the wilderness experience, and wary about what lies ahead, we seek your comfort and renewal. According to your faithfulness, O God, restore to them the joy of your redeeming grace.

For those who stand rooted in place by deep-seated fear or doubt or grief, unable to take even a single step forward, we call upon your mercy. Gather your people together, we pray ... the strong in body, mind, and spirit ... those who long for the future you have promised with anticipation and hope ... that they might lift those who need to be carried until they have the strength to walk again.

Hear also our prayers for those whom we name below ... those whose names are in our hearts and on our minds. In addition, hear our prayers for those whose names we do not know. Surround them with your steadfast love. Touch them with your infinite mercy. Fill them with a peace that passes all understanding.

In Jesus' name we pray, 
Amen.