from Wendell C. Hawley’s book, A Pastor Prays for His People.

Gracious God, eternal Father,

Who has created us in your image and whose glory was revealed

in the face of Jesus Christ,

grant us to know Christ and his life,

that the same mind which was in him may be in us.

By your abundant mercy,

we have been born anew to a living hope

through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,

to an inheritance which is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading,

kept in heaven for us

where neither rust can corrupt nor thieves break in and steal.

We praise you for such redemption.

You rescued us from the broad road that leads to destruction—

and turned our hearts toward the narrow path that leads heavenward.

Though heaven is our home, we don’t always manifest a heavenly spirit.

For such failures in speech, attitudes, and actions,

we fervently ask for your forgiveness.

Thank you, Father, for forgiveness—full and free.

Now may we heed the Lord’s words:

“Go and sin no more.”

Lord, there are many needs represented in this congregation—

needs greater than our ability to alleviate,

but they are no challenge to you.

This day, may you provide, out of your abundance, sustaining grace

to the grieving,

the lonely,

the financially burdened,

the unemployed,

those who suffer broken relationships,

those in troubling circumstances,

those facing secret battles against almost overwhelming temptations.

Many face debilitating health issues.

Lord, have mercy and grant a healing touch to them.

Father God, we thank you for those of yesteryear who left home and family

to defend our country;

we enjoy the fruit of their sacrifice—we worship you in freedom.

Remember your children worldwide who want to worship you openly,

but dare not.

Grant openness to the gospel in those places of satanic oppression.

Remember those of our extended family required to be in harm’s way

and all our military family.

Keep them from hurt and destruction.

Shield them from all harm.

Enable them to boldly and faithfully live a Christian life,

and may their testimony before fellow soldiers bear eternal fruit.

We pray all conflicts will end speedily

and the gospel’s power will permeate all those troubled lands.

Give divine wisdom to our national leaders

that they may govern in ways that honor you.

Amen.