Lord, we have walked through another stressful week.
You see the weary faces.
You know the hearts of those feeling discouraged.
You are present with the those who souls feel burdened.
You hear each anxious thought.
Some might ask – Where can we have hope?
Hope never comes from wishing a problem away.
Hope never comes from blind optimism.
Hope never comes from a cliché phrase.
The hope You offer meets us in our darkest moments.
It reminds us that death cannot hold resurrection.
It shows us that forgiveness, redemption, and reconciliation are possible through You.
It defines reality because we believe You will guide us to a brighter future.
We cannot muster up hope, but the gospel moves towards hope.
Life on this side of eternity will get messy.
Throughout the Bible, You called groups of people to bridge their differences.
You walked, especially with the broken-hearted and distressed.
So, we pray for the strength to follow Your example.
People will know we follow You by our love.
So Lord, give us hope.
Remind us of Your faithfulness in the past.
Illuminate the truth of scripture.
Motivate us with the good news of the gospel.
Let us love our neighbor as You did for us.
Amen
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