Here’s a prayer of intercession for the second Sunday after Epiphany (January 15, 2012). It comes from the Lutheran Church of Australia’s Worship Planning Page.
Prayer of the Church – Epiphany 2B
Jesus has called us to follow him. So let us follow where he leads us, and pray to God our Father for the whole people of God in Christ Jesus, and for all people according to their needs.
Lord God, Creator of all things, by the leading of a star you revealed your Son to the nations of the world; lead us also to a clearer vision of your presence. We thank you for your apostles who carried your word to distant lands; bless also your church today, that she may shine with your Son’s light in this world. Bring forth suitable people to study for the public ministry and to serve in lay ministry.
Lord in your mercy: Hear our prayer
Be with all pastors and servants of the church in every congregation in this land. Help them to speak your word in truth and power and care for the flocks entrusted to them. Be with the leaders of our Synod - in particular our President (insert name), and our District President (insert name). Guide, protect and refresh them, and help them as they work together in your name.
Lord in your mercy: Hear our prayer
Revive and refresh us by your Holy Spirit so that we can confess your name before others, pray fervently for our neighbour, and demonstrate your love through good works. We pray for all whom we know that are seeking guidance in their lives; for all who struggle with doubts about their faith; we commend to you all who do not yet believe, but are searching, that even while they still walk in darkness that you would make light shine upon their path.
Lord in your mercy: Hear our prayer
How blessed we are to enjoy the freedoms and prosperity of this country. Bless this land, all who live in it, all who visit it, and all who lead our nations affairs, in particular our Prime Minister, our Premiers, our elected politicians, and our leaders in business and society. Give them a love of truth and justice. Help all citizens to serve their neighbour through their vocation. Help those who are unemployed or whose work is difficult, dangerous or stressful. Grant to the wealthy the further blessing of generosity. Strengthen all families and the bond of marriage. Give all children and young people a renewed respect for their parents, and guide all parents in raising their children.
Lord in your mercy: Hear our prayer
How great is your power that you guide the nations of the world. In your mercy, curb the evil of man, and bring oppression, violence and greed to an end. Give success to all who work for peace and to all who strive to recognize each person’s common humanity.
Lord in your mercy: Hear our prayer
Lord God, since you have called us and received us as your disciples, keep us true to our calling. Build us up in trust in you, and in love towards each other, until we finally see you face to face. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
— from the Lutheran Church of Australia’s Worship Planning Page.
For more worship resources for the Epiphany season, click on Epiphany or Epiphany 1 B, 2 B, etc. in the list of “Labels” at the lower right side of the page.
For more prayer resources on this blog, see the Prayer Index at the upper right.
