Prayers for strangers – 14 August 2016

Lord Jesus, you came to us so that through you we would not be strangers to God, but could know the Father. In life you told us of the good news that the Father’s kingdom is near; in death on the cross you saved us so that we might be welcomed into eternal life in the Father’s kingdom, adopted in your family. You commanded us to love our God and our neighbours, and in resurrection, left us your Holy Spirit that the glory of God may be known in all the world.

We thank you and offer you all our worship and praise.

One shall tell another
And he shall tell his friend
Husbands, wives and children
Shall come following on
From house to house in families
Shall more be gathered in
And lights will shine in every street
So warm and welcoming

We recognize and welcome Your presence, moving in us and among us, between us and through us. Holy Spirit, reveal Yourself to us, we pray.

Where darkness has been darkest, The brightest light will shine

Help us to be a light in the dark world around us, not merely professing our faith, but also proving our faith by the way that we live and love. May our relationships be a testimony of Your compassionate kindness and mercy. May we recognize every place we visit, wherever our feet may fall, and every face we meet as part of a personal mission field without borders. We pray for the people of our neighbourhood. May they know they are welcome in this place, and come to know you in the way that will change and save their lives.

When I needed a neighbour
Were you there, were you there?
When I needed a neighbour
Were you there?

We come as those called to offer Christ’s welcome, to reach across all lines; to carry on the mission of the Messiah who looked the “other” in the eyes with love. Challenge us with your radical example of love. Stretch us to engage the way you engage. Holy Spirit who challenges and empowers us, urge us to compassion, break down our resistance, strengthen our resolve, open our hearts, and inspire our minds. Flow through us, and make us vessels of Your welcome, compassion, justice and love.

I was hungry and thirsty
Were you there, were you there?
I was hungry and thirsty
Were you there?

Guide the leaders ours and of all nations, that justice may prevail throughout the world.

Father, we ask your blessing on those who have fled into refugee camps, private homes, churches and communities. May they find the refuge they seek. We pray for those offering welcome to relatives, friends or strangers in their homes, churches and communities. We ask your wisdom for those working in camps and among displaced people wherever they are. Through their care, may your gifts of patience, freedom and hope be shared with all.

I was cold, I was naked
Were you there, were you there?
When I needed a shelter
Were you there?

Lord we come to You with hearts that are holding the people we love who are struggling, those close to us who are sick, those who are grieving, and those in need of Your healing. We pray for members of our church family who suffer today.

Here is healing and forgiveness:
The wine of the kingdom
The wine of the kingdom of God

God of healing, we call out to you.

When I needed a healer
Were you there, were you there?
When I needed a healer
Were you there?

We know that you comfort those who mourn, and lift to you all known to us who are grieving at this time, or whose anniversaries of loss fall at this time and in particular think of their families and friends. Hear us, Lord of life.

Let your church always be an instrument of your peace and love, and let your glory be over all the earth.

Wherever we travel
You’ll be there, You’ll be there.
Wherever you travel
You’ll be there.

And the creed and the colour
And the name won’t matter
You’ll be there.

Father, to you be glory and honour forever;
hear our prayers, in Jesus’ name, and for his sake,

Amen.