Here’s a prayer of intercession for the second Sunday of Easter. It comes from the Lutheran Church of Australia.
Prayer of Intercession
(inspired by John 20:19-31; Acts 4:32-35)
The Lord calls us to draw close and examine the wounded hands and feet of the Risen One and to know the depth of his love for us. Let us therefore approach the throne of God in confidence as we pray for the whole people of God in Christ Jesus, and for all people according to their needs.
Lord our Father, as Jesus entered the locked room to show his disciples the beginning of a new world, so enter our hearts and move us to faith in Jesus as the Risen One. Convince us of the reality and significance of the resurrection, and free us from all manner of fears and phobias. Give us courage in the face of death, knowing that this is the gateway to new resurrected life for those who trust in Christ.
Lord, in your mercy… hear our prayer.
Be with your church throughout the world so that its preaching and works of love may continue to testify to our Lord’s resurrection. Wherever your church is faithless and lacking in courage to do the work that Jesus has given, visit it and build it up with your Spirit. Be with all our pastors so that they may listen well and then speak with Christ’s authority.
Lord, in your mercy… hear our prayer.
Bring peace to all parts of the earth. Wherever nations are at war and people are divided, visit and bring true reconciliation. Especially protect all Christian people in these nations, and help them to influence their country for the good of all.
Lord, in your mercy… hear our prayer.
Wherever homes are disrupted by anger and bitterness, and wherever relationships are distorted and dulled, visit and bring peace and harmony. Wherever young people are gathered in your name, visit and guide them with your holy word and wisdom.
Lord, in your mercy… hear our prayer.
Visit and comfort the sick and suffering too, dear Lord. Heal and strengthen weak bodies, calm and correct confused minds. We pray for those we know with particular needs including (insert names). Support them all with your great love and mercy, and be with those others known to us and whom we now name in our hearts…
Lord, in your mercy… hear our prayer.
Heavenly Father, we present these prayers through Jesus Christ our Lord, who is risen from the dead, and who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
— from the Lutheran Church of Australia’s LCA Worship Planning Page.
For more worship resources for Easter 2 B, click on Easter 2 Year B in the list of “Labels” at the lower right side of the page.
