A Concord Pastor Comments: Pause for Prayer: SUNDAY 3/15

These past few weeks, Lord, so many people have been filled with so much worry, anxiety and fear...

- Folks worried about the corona virus and its potential for harm in our midst...

- Folks worried about their own health and the health of others, especially those who are at high risk for illness...

- Folks fearful of the financial impact and consequences of shutdowns, lockouts, cancellations and quarantine...

- Folks too anxious about small things and others not anxious enough about those things that really matter...

- Folks anticipating bad news - that may never arrive and others disappointed that good news is much too long in coming...

- Folks with worries and fears they've carried for years whose burden is only heavier with this new threat to our health and well-being...

So, teach us to trust that you're with us, Lord,
     especially when we fear you've forgotten we're here...

Teach us to hope in you and your help
     especially when we don't know what to do next...

Help us let go what we needn't hold on to
     and help us hold fast to what keeps us with you...

Remind us whatever our problem may be:
     that this too shall pass and all shall be well...

Touch with your grace and your gentle healing
    our worries and fears, our burdens and cares...

Give us patience as we wait for answers,
     as we wait for good news, as we hope for change,
          as we look for the help only you can provide...

Help us generously carry our neighbor's load
     and graciously accept our neighbor's offer
          to help us carry our own...

Be with us, Lord, when we are in trouble,
   be with us, Lord, we pray...

Psalm 91 by Marty Haugen

Be with me, Lord, when I am in trouble,
be with me, Lord, I pray!

You who dwell in the shelter of the Lord most high,
who abide in the shadow of our God,
say to the Lord, "My refuge and fortress,
the God in whom I trust!"

Be with me, Lord...

No evil shall befall you, no pain come near,
for the angels stand close by your side
guarding you always and bearing you gently,
watching over your life.

Be with me, Lord...

Those who cling to the Lord live secure in God's love
lifted high those who trust in God's name
Call on your Lord who will never forsake you,
God will bring you salvation and joy.

Be with me, Lord...