A Campus Minister’s Prayer

God,

Today we give thanks that our eyes have opened to the dawning of a brand-new day, understanding that this is due to no goodness of our own.

As we go forth into this day, we pray that you build a hedge of protection around those who work in our healthcare system. As they care for others, I pray you continue to stand with them, and alongside them.

God, we pray for families this morning who have to make hard decisions between staying home to take care of their children and going to work in order to make ends meet. We pray too for those children who will have to grow up too soon because of this moment and meet the demands of a society and world that is unkind in order to watch over younger siblings while parents are at work.

We pray for those who face being laid off and unemployed, and we ask, God, that you meet their needs in overflowing abundance.

God, we pray for those parents who are home-schooling children and who are struggling as their lives have been turned inside out. We pray for those single mothers and fathers today who are doing the best that they can.

God, we pray for our babies whose lives have been turned inside out, who were looking forward to graduation but are learning that none of these plans are certain. God, comfort their hearts, as they have worked hard to reach such an amazing milestone in their lives.

God, we pray for our educational system and for teachers and leaders who have had to adapt to this new normal.

God, we pray for those of us who are dealing with depression.

God, touch pastors and congregations, and let us be a light in the world that can’t be hidden.

We pray for the lives being ravaged by this pandemic. We pray for our local and federal government leaders. We ask that as they make decisions, you will cause them to do it for the good of humanity. Don’t let their moral compass be shifted by selfish or greedy desires.

God, we are grateful that we can take our burdens, concerns, and frustrations and leave them all in your hands. We and everything that concerns us are in your hands, and you, God, can make everything alright. You, oh Lord, are a shield around each of and a lifter of our heads. As we progress through this day, let us  not forget to give thanks. Help us to focus on you, and let our hope be in you.

Give us wisdom as we continue to make decisions.

In Jesus’ Name!

Amen!

Jasmyn Graham

Virginia State University, Virginia Conference United Methodist Church, Petersburg, VA