Lord, you gave us the commandment: love one another, just as I have loved you. Help us to love in the way you desire. Hear our prayers that we bring before you.
We pray that as Christians, we must find joy in the gifts we receive daily from God—like life, Creation, and our brothers and sisters—and not in money or other material goods.
We pray for peace. As Western leaders continue to intervene to avoid Russia attacking Ukraine, we pray that tensions ease and military units are withdrawn.
We pray for those in hospital and suffering ill-health. May the Holy Spirit bless and protect them and ease their discomfort.
We pray for those afflicted by addiction. May they seek the help and support they need to be freed from their troubles.
We pray for those that are lonely. Help them to remember that they are never truly alone as the grace and power of the Holy Spirit resides within them.
We pray for a moment for our own personal petitions…
Heavenly Father, help us to explore the high, yet attainable, expectations that Jesus places on his disciples. Help us to remember to always treat others as we would like to be treated. Amen.