Sunday Prayer; Proper 18B, Help Us to Love...

God, the maker of all, surround us like mountains, secure in love.

Bless the leaders of this world, of nations and cities, with wisdom

Help us to listen before speaking; may we assume good intentions.

(Oh, wouldn’t that be wonderful to not only assume, but to act with good intentions?)

Help us to love our neighbor as we love ourselves.

God, maker of all, in the heart of Jerusalem reside your people

People of many faiths, all giving praise to you. Be with the leaders

Of Churches and other faiths, reminding us of our common love in God.

Help us to love our neighbor as we love ourselves.

God, maker of all, be with those who are suffering from

Illness, poverty, hunger, injustice, abuse, and all the ways we fail

To care for others. Help us to respond to the broken places

Help us to love our neighbor as ourselves.

God, maker of all, be with those who have died.

Surround them with your peace and love. Sustain

Those who love and care for the dying, fill them with peace.

Help us to love our neighbors as ourselves.

In all we do, O God, help us to deepen our faith.

Help us to work on your behalf, that our words may have action.

Help us be your hands and heart in the world.

Help us to love you and love our neighbors, too.

Amen.