Prayers of the People, Pentecost +2, Year A

Rabbi ... Teacher ...
you have taught us that the kingdom of heaven
is at hand.
We have been looking for
wedding banquets
and hidden treasures.
Instead, we find the kingdom of heaven
in hospital COVID units
and peaceful protests.

Prophet ... Priest ...
you preached to us that the kingdom of heaven
is at hand.
We have been looking
for the mustard seed
or the pearl of great price.
Instead, we find the kingdom of heaven
right under our noses
in our siblings in Christ
whose gifts are undervalued
and whose voices are silenced
because of who they are
and the places from which they call.

Physician ... Healer ...
you offered comfort to us by reminding us
that the kingdom of heaven
is at hand.
We have been looking for it
in yeast
and seeds.
Instead, we find the kingdom of heaven
in grace-filled conversation
and ears that are willing to listen
and hearts that are open to being changed.

Reconciler ... Redeemer ...
you sent the Spirit to us as a sign
that the kingdom of heaven
is at hand.
Move among us now,
so that the lost can be found,
the wounds can be healed,
the untouchables embraced.
Make your presence known, O God,
so that the kingdom of heaven
is evident in our midst.
​In Jesus' name we pray ...