Prayer Guide for December 2022
Advent encourages us to look for the presence of God, in Christ, in our world. We light candles as signs of Christ’s light that dispels the darkness. There is, in this, a message of hope which is much needed in our current economic context. Inflation has produced a real squeeze for many, with lower paid workers impacted disproportionally, industrial action in many sectors and increasing anxiety. We need to hold on to the hope, which Christ’s coming brings.
There is also judgement in this Advent anticipation. God’s light in our world exposes the faults and failures of our economic system, which should lead us to repentance and confession. For how we so easily forget the needs of our neighbours – in our own communities and globally; for how we fail to welcome the stranger and refugee; for how we neglect our economic responsibilities in safeguarding the environment and those most at risk from climate change.
Almighty God, as we look for Christ’s coming this Advent fill us with His living hope that, despite the changes and chances of our lives and our world, you will lead us to that New Heaven and New Earth for which we yearn.
We pray especially for those who feel hopeless in the face of economic uncertainty, that they may see Christ’s light burning in their darkness.
And as that light shows us the many things for which we should repent, in our lives and our economy, give us the words and actions which lead to the change which you desire,
that, with the dawning of the light, we may see your Kingdom come,
through Jesus Christ, your Word made flesh.
Amen
Especially we pray for:
- Hope for all who feel hopeless and drained and in need of encouragement.
- The next steps in tackling climate change following the COP27 conference in Egypt, and the economic changes which are needed if it is to be tackled.
- A true repentance for the way our economic behaviour impacts others and the planet.
- Those on low pay, or a fixed income, for whom inflation brings particular anxiety.
- For Christmas initiatives in chaplaincy, particularly with workers in the retail sector in Pershore, Redditch, Kidderminster, Alvechurch and Upton.
- Peace in Ukraine, and between nations caught up in conflict that impacts the economy.
- FWW Chaplains: In our cycle of prayer this month we pray for our chaplains in Redditch. Paul Lawlor, Elaine Whitfield, Sarah Leeson, Sharon Forrest, Jules Bird, Malcolm Wilkes.
- FWW Trustees: this month for Officers & Standing Committee: Mary Austin (Chair), Chris Harvey (Vice-Chair), Roy Walford (Secretary), Anthony Glossop (Treasurer) and Stuart Sandys.