Sunday, October 17, 2010
Offered by Victoria G. Curtiss, Associate Pastor

Creator God, we see your handiwork in the beauty and wonder of the earth, in the intricate balance and interdependency of each part of nature upon another, in the ingenious ways you generate life to restore itself and flourish. You have ordered the cycles of the days and nights and the seasons of the year and have set the course for justice and harmony among your people. We praise you that you did not create only once, at the beginning of time, but continue actively to bring forth life in its all its delightful splendor.

Help us to pause, O God, and be in awe of your majesty and on our knees in thanksgiving for your artistry that surrounds us. May we arise and breathe in a gorgeous sunrise, stop and marvel at the deep red and gold of autumn leaves, reflect upon the mystery of the shining moon and the stars, and truly behold the faces of both loved ones and strangers. Thank you for the sheer miracle of life. May we always give you glory.

We lament that we have not been good stewards of your creation. Forgive us, and strengthen us never to take for granted the resources of water, air, soil, minerals, plants and animals upon which our lives depend. Teach us to honor the long-term future, that we may leave an abundant legacy of your world for many generations to come. May we learn ever more profoundly how to be one among many species, that we may sensitively honor what others need to thrive.

We lift up to you this day, O God, those in special need of your abiding presence and steadfast love. Comfort all who mourn and are lonely. Calm those wrestling with anxiety. Strengthen and heal those who are physically and mentally ill. May your peace reign wherever homes, neighborhoods, and countries are torn apart by violence. Grant that the leaders of nations and peoples throughout the world would seek and find your wisdom and make decisions that benefit those most in need. All this we pray in the name of Jesus Christ, who taught us to pray together saying, Our Father . . .

Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church