Scripture
“Happy are those who consider the poor; the Lord delivers them in the day of trouble.”
Psalm 41:1 (NRSV)
Prayer
Gracious God, we give thanks for your Word, which guides and sustains us. The psalmist reminds us that “happy are those who consider the poor, the LORD delivers them in the day of trouble” (Psalm 41:1). As we seek to heal what is broken among us, help us to remember that you call us not to sustain the status quo, but to ensure that the needs of all are met, without exception. Guide our advocacy for just politics, the service ministries of our churches, and our preaching and teaching for economic justice for all people and creation. Challenge us to live in generosity as abundant as your love. In Jesus name, Amen.
-Kathryn Lohre, Executive for Ecumenical and Inter-Religious Relations & Theological Discernment, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
We call on you now to join us in “40 Days of Prayer to Transform: A Journey to Newness.” Beginning December 12 and moving daily through January 20, members of the National Council of Churches and all communion partners will join in praying for hope, unity, and healing. During this Advent/Christmas season and into the New Year we put our hope in the ability and desire of God, through Jesus Christ, to heal and transform hearts and minds. We look for the Holy Spirit to breathe God’s newness into individual lives, faith communities, the soul of our nation, indeed, the whole world.