Scripture
“But who can detect their errors? Clear me from hidden faults.”
“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be acceptable to you,
O God, my rock and my redeemer.“
Psalm 19:12 & 14 NRSV
Prayer
Dear God, we confess our tendency to become overwhelmed by life’s challenges and guided by our own agendas, instead of really trying to discern your paths toward peace, unity, and healing. Thank you for your loving Faithfulness that does not abandon us even when we fall short. Forgive our selfish fears and strengthen our weak spirits, dear Jesus, so that we might fully embrace who you are calling us to be: embodiments of your love for others, active agents of justice working together for reconciliation, healing, and hope in our fractured and fearful world. Open our eyes to see, believe, and take advantage of your Presence among us, leading us toward opportunities that transform today’s chaos into Beloved Community through the empowering boldness of your Holy Spirit. Amen.
Dr. Ron Peters, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary
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.