Sunday Prayer; Easter 4A

Holy and Gracious God,
you call us by name,
Beloved One,
and beckon us to follow you.
May we do so through your grace.

In your Name we pray,
Hear our prayer.

Like a shepherd tending the flock
you tend to our needs.
Be present with those who
struggle, suffer, are in pain
or sorrow. Guide those who are
lost, or filled with worry and fear.
Protect those who are in harms way
heal those who are ill,
mend those who are broken,
as only your love can.

God of peace, watch over those who
lead us in our various governments
and churches, fill our leaders with
wisdom, patience, insight, and mercy.
Help them to lead with kindness and strength.

God of love, fill our hearts with
the knowledge of You that we can turn
from the distractions of life and be
more like You. May we be agents of
your compassion offering kindness
to those we meet this day.

God of all blessings, we thank you for
all the gifts of life. For your Son,
our savior, our great Good Shepherd,
the one who stands at the gate of
all life's challenges and joys,
calling out to us in love. Naming
us, Beloved.

For all this, and more we pray.
Amen.