Lord Jesus,
Many of us are weary.
We are weary of hypocrisy.
We are weary of cruelty
dressed up as righteousness.
We are weary of seeing your
name used to justify fear,
exclusion, and the pursuit of
Some of us carry wounds
from churches.
Some carry wounds from
leaders.
Some carry wounds from
communities that once felt
like home.
Meet us in those places of
pain.
Remind us that you
understand betrayal.
Remind us that you
understand rejection.
Remind us that you
understand grief.
When we are tempted to give
up, help us see you clearly.
Not the distortions.
Not the idols.
Not the counterfeit versions
of faith.
You.
The One who welcomes the
stranger.
The One who lifts the
burdened.
The One who heals the
wounded.
The One who lays down his
life for others.
Teach us your way of love.
Give us courage to resist what
is harmful.
Give us wisdom to pursue
what is true.
Give us compassion for those
who are suffering.
And help us become people
who leave healing wherever
we go.
May your love keep us
grounded.
May your mercy keep us
May your hope keep us
moving forward.
And may we trust that your
Kingdom is still coming, even
when the darkness feels
overwhelming.
Amen.
-- Benjamin Cremer
Christian hope is not a sedative. Christian hope gets us up and out the door.
-- Debie Thomas
