Lent Prayer: Hope & Solidarity

Here’s a thoughtful prayer of commitment for the season of Lent.  It was written by Annabel Shilson-Thomas.

Hope and Solidarity

Lord, you set your face towards Jerusalem

and walked alongside those who suffer.
Be our vision that we too may walk the way of the cross

and extend a hand to those we meet.

Lord, give us the gladness of your help
And support us with a willing spirit.

Lord, you stopped to heal the sick, cure the lame

and give sight to the blind.
Be our vision that we too may give time to others

and respond to their needs.

Lord, give us the gladness of your help
And support us with a willing spirit.

Lord, you said, "The first shall be last and the last first."
Be our vision that we too may work towards your kingdom

when the exalted will be brought low and the lowly exalted.

Lord, give us the gladness of your help
And support us with a willing spirit.

Lord, you ate with tax collectors and sinners and heard their stories.
Be our vision that we too may listen to the despised and rejected

and value their lives.

Lord, give us the gladness of your help
And support us with a willing spirit.

Lord, you took time to pray and time to be silent.

Be our vision that through our prayers, fasting and almsgiving

we too may draw closer to you and find your way.

Lord, give us the gladness of your help
And support us with a willing spirit.

Lord, you entered Jerusalem with peace in your heart.
Be our vision that we too may desire peace where others desire war,
and may work for justice where injustice reigns.

Lord, give us the gladness of your help
And support us with a willing spirit
For you are our hope and our salvation.

— written by Annabel Shilson-Thomas, and posted on the CAFOD website.