Prayers of the faithful - Thursday after Ash Wednesday of the holy season of Lent - 18 February 2021

 Lord Jesus - you bring us hope - 

Christ Jesus - you bring us life 

Lord Jesus - you encourage us in the midst of the challenges of our journey

We now bring our prayers to the Lord in these first days of our Lenten journey: 

1. We pray that during these days of Lent that Christ breathe life into his church and his church leaders as we are called to accompany Jesus in his journey through the desert.   

2. That you Lord open our eyes, mind, heart, and will to the holiness of creation and to the ways we can reach out to our brothers and sisters in need. 

3.  That you guide our governmental leaders in strength and wisdom as they lead us through this difficult time.  

4. That all of the sick receive the assistance that they need.  For healing from the COVID-19 Virus and all infirmities of mind, body and spirit.  In gratitude for our medical professionals and first responders.  

5. For strength and courage to bear our crosses. 

6. For all those affected by the winter storms here in Mississippi and throughout our nation.  For those without food, shelter, heat, electricity, or water.  For the safety of all. 

6. For those prayers we hold in our hearts. 

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the blessings you give us in life and we thank you for your grace that helps us meet our challenges as we journey through these days of Lent.  We present these prayers to you through your Son Jesus Christ, our Lord forever and ever.  AMEN.