God of all people,
I pray today for your world. The images of desperation and fear, despair and anguish fill the media. It is hard to imagine an answer for the problems that plague us, and yet you assure us that the future is in your hands.
I pray for the people of Afghanistan, that there might be freedom, peace, and security, for the release of those who fear for their lives or their way of life. I pray for the church in Afghanistan, the underground movement of Christians who claim the name of your son, that you would keep them safe and that they would know how to honor you and represent your love in that place.
I pray for the Taliban, as you have taught me always to pray for both friends and enemies. I pray that in some way, your love might prevail in and among them.
I pray for the people of Haiti, who have suffered in so many ways, that somehow help would get through in some real way to them, that they might have shelter and food and water.
I pray for those who are ill, whether from Covid or some other illness, knowing that you are a God whose activity is to heal.
I pray for all our medical professionals, frontline workers, and first responders, that you would give them strength and perseverance, keep them and their families safe.
I pray for teachers and students, as school begins in the midst of health and safety challenges, that the learning and character development that is so essential would thrive and flourish.
I pray for all the leaders of our city, state, country, and world, that they might be used by you to bring about your preferred future for creation.
God, I ask that you use me in some small way to bring light to one little corner of your world. Use my prayers as tools for your purposes. And if there is something more I can do, show me the way and help me to do it. Amen