Here is a possible prayer of intercession for August 28, 2011 (Proper 17A). I’ve based it on three of the suggested scripture passages for that day:
Exodus 3:1-15, where Moses encounters God at the burning bush, and is sent by God to speak on Israel’s behalf before Pharaoh;
Romans 12:9-21, where Paul encourages believers to a new way of living and acting in the world; and
Matthew 16:21-28, where Jesus invites the disciples to take up their cross and follow him.
Feel free to adapt this prayer as you see fit.
Prayer of Intercession
(based on Ex. 3:1-15; Rom. 12:19-21; Matt. 16:21-28)
Gracious God,
In love You created us,
and in love You sustain us, day after day.
So it is with confidence that we bring our prayers to You,
knowing that You hear us, and will respond.
and in love You sustain us, day after day.
So it is with confidence that we bring our prayers to You,
knowing that You hear us, and will respond.
We pray for the world around us,
for the many who continue to suffer and call out for help:
for those without enough to eat in East Africa and elsewhere;
for those caught up in violence and political uprisings;
for those picking up the pieces after a natural disaster;
for those desperate to find work to support their families.
Gracious God, hear our prayer,
and in Your love, answer.
We also pray for family and friends who are suffering:
those struggling physically or emotionally,
those working to overcome mental illness;
those facing challenges at home or at work;
those grieving the death of a loved one.
Gracious God, hear our prayer,
and in Your love, answer.
God, You have called us to pray for our enemies;
to bless, rather than curse, those who deliberately seek to harm us.
We bring their names before You now—
those who have hurt us, physically or emotionally;
those who have stolen from us,
or cheated us of what was rightfully ours;
those who have spread rumours about us,
or turned our friends against us.
We ask You to bless them.
Open our hearts so that we may see them as You see them,
and be able to respond to them with Your love.
Gracious God, hear our prayer,
and in Your love, answer.
We pray for Your church around the world,
that it would be a living demonstration of Your coming kingdom:
offering hospitality to all,
ready to help in times of need,
showing love to friends and enemies alike,
seeking to live in peace with all.
Gracious God, hear our prayer,
and in Your love, answer.
God, we praise You for Your faithful love,
and for the mercy You have shown toward us.
Open our eyes to recognize Your presence in our lives.
Give us grace to hear Your call,
and courage to follow without hesitation,
knowing that Your way is the only way that leads to life.
In the name of Jesus, our Saviour and Lord,
Amen.
