Prayer
O Almighty God,
In amazement of your power,
We are aware of our vulnerability.
We ask for your mercy, especially during this pandemic.
You see the tears that fall.
You hear the silent sighs.
You understand the anguish of our hearts.
You know all our sorrows, anxieties, and fears.
Console the broken hearts of those who grieve their loved ones.
Restore to your grace those who cry out as they cannot reach out to their loved ones.
Uplift those who lament the loss of life and livelihood.
We believe you answer every prayer.
Omnipresent God,
We are grateful that you never let us walk alone.
However, this pandemic exposes our weaknesses and limitations.
We confess that our relationships are breaking down,
That our humanity is vanishing in the face of anxiety,
That our egotism is erasing and replacing love and concern.
We beg that you restore our world, dear Lord.
Let us recognize you as a friend in all others.
Let us be reminded of our humanity amidst suffering.
Let us be charitable and mindful, rather than greedy, in this hardship.
Restore the physical and mental wellbeing of us all,
Enable us to fight the twin viruses of COVID-19 and hate.
O Lord God, our guard,
Grant us your wisdom and discernment,
So that we collectively act in truth and justice.
Guide our governments that they may serve in obedience and charity.
Despite the fearful pandemic, strengthen us to pursue the truth,
Bless the work that is to be done in the best interests of society.
Give your foresight and knowledge to those who are working to develop an antidote,
Let their motivations be to preserve life, and not their own narrow self-interest.
Let your love unfold upon all doctors, nurses, medical personnel, volunteers, and everyone who has dedicated their efforts in service of others.
In your protection, let them be healthy and full of kindness,
Remind them that their service and sacrifice for humanity is not in vain.
Encourage those infected and recovering, those under observation, those in quarantine and isolation, so that they pull through in this period of trials and tribulations.
Outstretch your mighty hands over entire communities,
That we all may trust in your will, in your perfect timing, in your righteousness.
O God, the Owner of Life,
Teach us to be patient and compassionate,
And let us humble and improve ourselves,
So that even in difficult situations, we never cease to glorify your holy name.
In your forgiveness and love we pray,
Amen.
Patricia Sapakoly
(originally written in Bahasa)
