A Prayer for Today
O God, make speed to save us. O Lord, make haste to help us.
Lord, have mercy. Christ, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.
Be present, O merciful God, and protect us, so that we who are wearied by the changes and chances of this life may rest in your eternal changelessness; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Visit this place, O Lord, and drive far from it all snares of the enemy; let your holy angels dwell with us to preserve us in peace; and let your blessing be upon us always; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Keep watch, dear Lord, with those who work, or watch, or weep this night, and give your angels charge over those who sleep. Tend the sick, Lord Christ; give rest to the weary, bless the dying, soothe the suffering, pity the afflicted, shield the joyous; and all for your love’s sake. Amen.
O God of peace, who has taught us that, in returning and rest, we shall be saved, in quietness and confidence shall be our strength: By the might of your Spirit lift us, we pray you to your presence, where we may be still and know that you are God; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Assist us mercifully, O Lord, in our prayers, and gently direct the way of your servants toward healing and salvation; that, among all the changes and chances of this mortal life, we may ever be defended by your gracious and ready help; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
— Adapted from the 1979 Book of Common Prayer
Jesus Wants Us to Take Our Needs to Him
Jesus wants us to take our needs to him. So, of course, we pray when we are ill or afraid or in danger. Beyond that lies an even more profound request: to become so close to him that we desire God’s Presence above all other things, whatever the circumstances or outcome. In the church season of Lent, Christians traditionally have “given something up” as a spiritual discipline. At this hour, countless millions around the world are giving up what was normal and expected — and struggling with unplanned events ranging from inconvenience to financial hardship to life-threatening pestilence. Please add your own prayers for all who are suffering everywhere, in any way.