These aren't easy times, Lord:
our nation's in a state of political suspended animation;
our Church reports another tragic chapter in her story;
the Covid numbers move quickly - in the wrong direction;
restrictions on our gatherings mute the joyful hope
of being home for the holidays...
the leaves are brown, the skies are gray, our spirits blue,
pandemic zones increasingly turn red...
So many things we trust in and count on are in question,
overshadowed and failing to provide for and sustain us
in our worries and our fears...
So we turn to you, Lord,
you who never fail us, never abandon us,
never for a moment take your eye off us;
you whose care is ever faithful, constant and abiding
even, and especially, when trouble overwhelms
and hope is hard to find...
Help us, Lord, to discern the things that are most important;
help us find contentment in these anxious times,
serenity in our worry and confusion,
peace in the midst of discord and mistrust
and joy, even in our sadness and our loss...
Thanksgiving Day was born of gratitude for your help
in guiding your people, Lord,
through the hardest of times...
Christmas celebrates the good news of your birth among us
that the hopes and fears of all the years
might meet in you, Lord,
that all might be healed and reconciled in your love...
As the holidays approach, Lord,
deepen our faith and trust:
that you are with us every moment of every day;
that you will safely guide us through these difficult times;
that we will find new hope in the simplest of joys and blessings;
and that all shall be well, that all shall be well,
that all manner of things shall be well...
Protect us this and every night, Lord,
and watch over us as we sleep
that awake, we might keep watch for your coming
and asleep, rest gratefully in your peace...
Amen.
MMMMMMMM
Be With Me, Lord 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!"
No evil shall befall you, no pain come near,
for the angels stand close by your side,
guiding you always and bearing you gently,
watching over your life.
Those who cling to the Lord live secure in God's love,
lifted high those who trust in God's name.
Call on the Lord who will never forsake you,
God will bring you salvation and joy.
Be With Me, Lord 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!"
No evil shall befall you, no pain come near,
for the angels stand close by your side,
guiding you always and bearing you gently,
watching over your life.
Those who cling to the Lord live secure in God's love,
lifted high those who trust in God's name.
Call on the Lord who will never forsake you,
God will bring you salvation and joy.
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