Listening to the evening news is oftentimes sobering,
and the past few weeks have proven to be especially
so. We have all been through dark times before, both
individually and in community, but while we're in the
midst of shadows, it can seem like we might never
see daylight again. The truth is, God is in the
darkness too. God smiles when we laugh in delight,
and holds our hand in times of tears.
explorefaith's Prayers for Living were created
to help guide you through the gamut of life's highs and
lows. This week, we offer selected prayers of praise,
petition and gratitude with hope that you may know the
peace of Christ today, tomorrow and always.
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life enriched by our weekly Reflections, tell your
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explorefaith's honorary e-cards are a perfect way to
express thanks to those who bring blessing to your
life. For a small donation to our non-profit ministry, you
may select one of our beautiful tribute cards and we'll
send it to the recipient(s) of your choosing with a
message of gratitude and love.
How can the God of
judgment and punishment, as often portrayed in the
Old Testament, be reconciled with the concept of a
God of love?
Think of scripture as a progressive conversation
among seekers after God through centuries and
across cultures. Then all the differing points of view
can be appreciated, and all the various views of God
can be tested against each other and against our
experience in a new place and time.
for Expressing
Joy
I want everyone to experience the wonder of life that I
feel right now. Let my joy shine forth so that those
cloaked by sadness may find their sorrow lifted, if only
for a moment.
for Those who are
Suffering
Even though I do not understand the reasons for
suffering, I believe that you are a God of love, a God of
compassion. I pray that you will be with all those this
day that are in pain, who suffer silently and alone, who
feel abandoned and left by the side of life's
road.
Wrap your arms of grace around them, until they know
they are safely held in your embrace.
for Our
Future
Move us from self-interest to compassion, from the
need to be right to the place of doing right. Let the love
that is at the foundation of creation spread out like
roots, bringing life, healing and wholeness to places
cracked and broken. I ask this for the sake of your
love.
for the Blessing of
Friends
Gracious God, I ask your blessing on all my friends
who have given of their own heart and soul to deepen
and strengthen my own. I pray especially for those
who have walked alongside me when I have not been
a faithful friend myself.
