Dear Beloved of Trinity Church,
This week, we joined in celebrating the independence of our country—a time to give thanks for the gifts, possibilities, and opportunities this land offers. We honored those who have given their lives in service to our nation and those whose vision, wisdom, and courage shaped its founding ideals. We celebrated the best of who we are, and we acknowledged the ongoing work of becoming who we are meant to be.
At the same time, we recognized the imperfections and injustices that continue to mark our national story. We are still, in many ways, a young nation—growing, learning, and seeking greater wisdom. There is still much to heal, much to learn, and much to do as we strive toward deeper maturity: in leadership, in service, and in responsibility - both at home and abroad.
We have much to be grateful for. We also have much to reckon with—and to renew. May we live more fully into the dream God holds for this country, and for all who call it home.
I offer the following prayers for your reflection and hope they will guide our hearts in this season.
Happy 4th of July!
Peace and Blessings to all,
Paul
[…]
For the Human Family
O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us
through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the whole
human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which
infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us;
unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and
confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in
your good time, all nations and peoples may serve you in
harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ
our Lord. Amen.
For our Country
Almighty God, who hast given us this good land for our
heritage: We humbly beseech thee that we may always prove
ourselves a people mindful of thy favor and glad to do thy will.
Bless our land with honorable industry, sound learning, and
pure manners. Save us from violence, discord, and confusion;
from pride and arrogance, and from every evil way. Defend
our liberties, and fashion into one united people the multitudes
brought hither out of many kindreds and tongues. Endue
with the spirit of wisdom those to whom in thy Name we entrust
the authority of government, that there may be justice and
peace at home, and that, through obedience to thy law, we
may show forth thy praise among the nations of the earth.
In the time of prosperity, fill our hearts with thankfulness,
and in the day of trouble, suffer not our trust in thee to fail;
all which we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
For Peace
Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn
but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the
strength of love: So mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that
all peoples may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of
Peace, as children of one Father; to whom be dominion and
glory, now and for ever. Amen
For our Enemies
O God, the Father of all, whose Son commanded us to love
our enemies: Lead them and us from prejudice to truth:
deliver them and us from hatred, cruelty, and revenge; and in
your good time enable us all to stand reconciled before you,
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
For the Mission of the Church
Everliving God, whose will it is that all should come to you
through your Son Jesus Christ: Inspire our witness to him,
that all may know the power of his forgiveness and the hope
of his resurrection; who lives and reigns with you and the
Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.