We have placed the weight of the world’s suffering upon our shoulders

instead of yours, O Deliverer.

We are mired in hesitation,

overwhelmed by stagnancy.

Our city groans with need,

suffering multiplies by the hour,

and it is not the call of your children to ignore our neighbors’ cries.

But, O Savior, how do we wash another’s feet

when we cannot touch?

Where our understanding falters,

where our knowledge dwindles,

where our expertise ends,

O Lord, you meet us there.

Your word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path

when we cannot see the next right step.

O Loving God, you have said this is your will:

to be joyful always

to pray continually

to give thanks

to do justice

to love kindness

to walk humbly with you.

Our portion is you and your redemptive work.

Show us how to be your ambassadors to this hurting world.

Teach us how to use our hands and resources when words fall short.

Define your ministry of reconciliation for each of us, Jesus.

Bless those who have not the time or privilege of feeling stuck:

those on medical frontlines

those stocking shelves

those teaching their children

those caring for the vulnerable

those turning the gears of our beloved city.

O Author and Perfecter of our faith, you use us

to write a beautiful story amid crisis.

As parts of your body, appointed by the same Spirit,

we do not receive your grace in vain,

and trust we have everything we need to abound in every good work.

Amen.