Praying for Them

Jesus prayed to the Father, “While I was with them, I protected them in your name that you have given me. I guarded them, and not one of them was lost except the one destined to be lost, so that the scripture might be fulfilled. But now I am coming to you, and I speak these things in the world so that they may have my joy made complete in themselves. I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they do not belong to the world, just as I do not belong to the world. I am not asking you to take them out of the world, but I ask you to protect them from the evil one. They do not belong to the world, just as I do not belong to the world. Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. As you have sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, so that they also may be sanctified in truth.” John 17:12-19 

Great Creator, lover of all peoples

you hold us in your hands always

surrounding us with our daily needs

and teaching us the path of goodness.

You prayed in your darkest hour

for the safety and sanctity of your friends

you held them close in every moment

and forgave them all their stubbornness.

We are often wandering off and confused

unable to ask for or know our needs

yet you are always holding us close

bringing us truth and hope in darkness.

Draw close in these days of challenge

where the world is turning too fast

guide our feet and our hearts in truth

so that we might serve your people here. Amen.