A Prayer for Reconciliation

Suggestion for use as a responsive reading: between each petition, respond with "Praise and love to you, O God, Creator of the heavens and the earth and all that is in them."

Printable Version

Most merciful God, we pray for the people of the world over to seek peace in all relationships. Especially let us pray that we may be moved to pray for our enemies, that we may forgive them, and that they may forgive us-so that we are enemies no longer.

May we be reconciled to all people and nations, some of whom we have ignored in the past, some whom we have treated with disdain and dishonor. May we recognize our own sin in broken relationships and promises, yet know that in your mercy you forgive us, even as we forgive others of their real or imagined transgressions against us.

We pray for the hope that leads us to trust you, knowing you sent your Son Jesus to teach your will for peace among us, and to know that peace among nations is possible. Increase our trust in the power of prayer. Guide us to be peacemakers as we preach, teach, and live a life of reconciliation and love in our homes, workplaces, schools, communities, and political lives.

Show us the way to move beyond the fear of terrorism and retaliation to mediation and conversation with all the nations. May we know that the "Whole World is in Your Hands" and that you have power beyond all that we can imagine, which you offer us through your Holy Spirit. Help us to use that power wisely and according to your will, whether we are defending our families and nation against real or imagined terrorist attacks, or seeking to influence others to work toward a world of peace.

Praise and love to you, O God, Creator of the heavens and the earth and all that is in them. In the name of the Prince of Peace, Jesus the Christ.

Helen Baily Cochrane
Executive Director
Greater Bethlehem Area Council of Churches