O Great Guide, who led shepherds and kings by the light of a star, when we feel most lost, we pray you light a way forward.
We are bombarded with news of war and death, like bombs blasting open our hearts.
We pray for all areas around the globe that are experiencing war, including: Israel and Palestine, where the war seems to keep intensifying, and where newborns in Gaza face steeper and steeper odds of survival; Russia and Ukraine, where 53 people, including six children, were just wounded by Russian missile strikes in Kyiv; and the ongoing conflict in Congo, where millions have been displaced, that they may have at least a three day ceasefire for a safe election, where citizens who have been forced to hide and become virtually voiceless can safely return home to vote.
Lead us, O God, through this destruction.
We are uplifted by news about collaboration and inspiration, bridging gaps that divide. We raise prayers of thanksgiving as this week we have seen positive change happen when we come together for the benefit of the globe. At COP28, the UN Climate Summit, there is agreement on a global transition away from fossil fuels. We lift up the bravery shown by Licypriya Kangujam, a 12-year-old Indian climate activist who, showing the power of activism, got up on stage on Monday with the sign: “End fossil fuel, save our planet and our future.”
Guide us, O God, to a more hope-filled future.
As Hanukkah, the festival of lights in the Jewish faith, comes to an end, and as Christians celebrate Advent and the coming of the light, teach each of us to recognize the divine light within all of humanity. Show us new ways to nourish that light, rather than snuff it out.
May we be guided by your life-giving love for all, rather than our misguided desire for power. May we be sustained by your presence with us and within us, even in the darkest times.
May we be enlightened by your miracles: the miracle of burning oil meant for one day lasting eight; the miracle of activists coming together to revolt and make positive change; and the miracle of the coming of a savior born under Roman occupation to a lowly young girl, a savior whose life was in danger from the day he was born; and, yet, a savior.
Help us to learn, even in the midst of so much uncertainty, from the miracles of this season: your lessons of love, justice, and peace.
O Great Guide, as you did all those years ago, and you do again and again: light the way for us.
Amen. Ameen. May it be so.
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