PRAYER for Series A Proper 7: Lord God, my Fortress and my Strength, you deliver me from danger and guard me from evil. Help me respond to your call and be faithful to Christ my Lord so that I may not fear the terrors of this world but rejoice in your promise of eternal life. Amen.
For Those who Serve in the Armed Forces: O Lord God of hosts, stretch forth your almighty arm to strengthen and protect those who serve in the armed forces of our country. Support them and protect them as they defend our country and protect the lives of oppressed civilians. Keep them from all evil, give them courage and loyalty and grant that in all things they may serve honestly and without reproach; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
For the People of Iran and Israel: Almighty God and Father of all nations, give your guidance to the people of Iran and Israel that they may be protected from great suffering and destruction and be able to restore peace and harmony to their lands. Where there is oppression and bloodshed, let there be freedom and an end to strife. Bring your message of healing, comfort, and salvation through the turmoil, that people may learn of your love. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. Amen.
FOR OUR COUNTRY: that citizens may hold elected leaders to the task of governing fairly and with integrity, according to the will of God for the good of our country, the freedom of our land, and the unifying of our citizenry. Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer. Amen.
For leaders to support justice and seek peace: Almighty God, You made from one man all the nations of the earth. Grant good leaders in every land who will seek peace and serve justice. Frustrate the causes of evil, violence and oppression. Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.
For peace in Ukraine: God of comfort and of peace, we pray for the people of Ukraine and Russia. Where there is oppression, establish freedom; where there is repression, promote truth. Especially guide all those involved in peace negotiations at this time, that results may be fair and equitable and further the freedoms and stability of the people of Ukraine, that citizens may celebrate your compassion and deliverance and that your grace in Christ may be proclaimed to all. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. Amen.
