Here’s a thoughtful prayer “For Our Nation” from Bruce Prewer’s 21st Century Prayers page (see below for link). It was written for Australia, but could easily be adapted for use by people in other countries. (Some may need to revise the “Though we are small among the nations…” part!)
Prayer for Our Nation
Lord of all races and nations, we thank you for our country and its people, our blessings and our privileges. By your Holy Spirit lead us through the new millennium with both humility and confidence.
Though we are small among the nations,
teach us to do justly, love mercy
and walk humbly with our God.
Move with your renewing Spirit of in the hearts and minds of our Prime Minister and State Premiers. May they not only have the will to seek the common good but also the wisdom to recognise what truly is the common good.
Though we are small among the nations,
teach us to do justly, love mercy
and walk humbly with our God.
By your Spirit of Truth, discipline the minds of those who edit and control our mass media. Give them the courage to spurn the sensational gossip or violence which tears the fabric of our society, yet to publish the truth that cleanses and builds up.
Though we are small among the nations,
teach us to do justly, love mercy
and walk humbly with our God.
Come with your compassionate Spirit on all those who help mend the wounds and ills of our society. Those who reach out to street kids and drug addicts, all who care for misfits and outcasts, those who tend the diseased and injured, and all brave souls who try to right wrongs by changing unjust attitudes and laws.
Though we are small among the nations,
teach us to do justly, love mercy
and walk humbly with our God.
By your reconciling Spirit, bridge the gap between city and country, employed and the unemployed, the wealthy and the battlers, indigenous Australians and more recent generations of immigrants, the political right and political left, and between the powerful and the weak.
Though we are small among the nations,
teach us to do justly, love mercy
and walk humbly with our God.
Pour out the Spirit of Christ Jesus upon the congregations of your church in this land. Encourage and renew your ministers, pastors and priests. Raise up prophets and evangelists of small ego and mighty faith. Let this new era be a time of opportunity that is faithfully seized in the name of your True Son.
Though we are small among the nations,
teach us to do justly, love mercy
and walk humbly with our God.
Loving God, through Christ Jesus who strengthens us, we commit ourselves to making this new century a place where grace, mercy and peace are not in short supply.
In the all-providing, liberating and revitalising Name
of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen!
For more resources suitable for national celebrations, click on National Prayers in the list of “Labels” at the lower right side of the page.
