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Hear our prayer

Some days, memories can feel more present than reality.
Today, we remember those separated from us this Christmas, whether through death or distance or disappointment.

God of love and wonder,
we, your children,
bring you our hopes and prayers:

We pray for those who live in countries and cultures that are unfamiliar,
for refugees, for those who seek asylum.
We pray for family members who live apart from one another.
We pray for those who come to Britain seeking shelter and hope.
God, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.

We pray for families.
We remember that Jesus did not always agree with his parents
and that his parents worried about him.
We pray for love and justice in family relationships …
for homes that are safe spaces for questions and laughter and tears.
God, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.

We pray for our local communities and churches.
We rejoice in Christmas trees on council roundabouts
and candles in dark places.
God, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.

We pray for those who are sick, or in need, or in any kind of trouble.
we remember friends and family members who have died …
tell them how much we love them and miss them …
God, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.

We pray for ourselves … for our needs, our hopes, our dreams …
God, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.

God you love us.
We are your family.
Help us to love you,
and to live in wonder and justice
all our days.

Amen

© Ruth Burgess taken from “Hay & Stardust” (Wild Goose Publications Glasgow 2001) p177