A Prayer for the Nation

Almighty God, you rule all the peoples of the earth.
Inspire the minds of all women and men to whom you have committed
the responsibility of government and leadership
in the nation of the world.
Give to them the vision of truth and justice,
that by their counsel all nations and peoples may work together.
Give to the people of our country
zeal for justice and strength of forbearance,
that we may use our liberty in accordance with your gracious will.
Forgive our shortcomings as a nation;
purify our hearts to see and love the truth,
We pray all these things through Jesus Christ. Amen.
–United Methodist Book of Worship 1992

When the people of Israel complained that their prayers went unheard and that even their fasts did not sway God’s heart, God responded to their complaint  with these words:

 “Is not this the fast that I choose:
to loose the bonds of injustice,
to undo the thongs of the yoke,
to let the oppressed go free,
and to break every yoke?
Is it not to share your bread with the hungry,
and bring the homeless poor into your house;
when you see the naked, to cover them,
and not to hide yourself from your own kin?
Then your light shall break forth like the dawn,
and your healing shall spring up quickly.”

Isaiah 58:6-8

As we have lived through this past year, we’ve been reminded that  the work of love and justice is ongoing.   Freedom is a gift God wants for all people and not just some.