Prayers of the People, OT17B

The soldier goes to battle, Lord,
to serve and to protect,
on battlefields and city streets,
sacrificing much
that all will be safe.
Encircle the troops with protection, we pray,
and keep them in your care,
while teaching the leaders of nations
the art of making peace.

Those in positions of power
stand in lofty places
and look down upon the voiceless,
summoning them,
using them,
and abusing them,
attempting to manipulate circumstances
and shattering their world.
Draw them in and comfort them, we pray,
emboldening them to share their stories
and granting them the courage
and strength to speak their truth.

The innocent die
as war is raged
with nations and with nature,
and much is lost in the fight.
Be present with the grieving, Lord,
and be our Rock,
sustaining us in times of trial,
and redeeming your world
and restoring our hope.

God of mercy and compassion,
hear our prayers. ​