Recent announcements about the rise in gas and electricity prices was both expected and deeply shocking. We know that unless something radical is done to both assist folk now and fundamentally change how our energy markets work there will be many people going both hungry and cold this winter.
The following prayers of intercession have been written by the Revd Andy Braunston, the United Reformed Church's Minister for Digital Worship, to aid both personal and corporate prayer at this time.
Eternal One, in these days of sunshine and rain, of refreshing breeze and lazy afternoons, as many prepare to join those already back at school, and as thousands prepare to head to university or the world of work, we praise and give you thanks for all that is good in our lives
- for those we love,
- for those whose company we enjoy,
- for the beauty that surrounds us in the created order,
- for the random acts of kindness we see day by day,
- and for all that adds value and worth to our living.
Lord Jesus, you often told the rich off for ignoring the poor, you weren’t a great guest at dinner parties, rebuking the host for the guest list, telling folk not to grab the best seats, and to give without any hope of earthly reward. We lift to you, dear Lord
- all who are desperate in these days,
- all who already struggle to pay their bills,
- all who are in deep panic about the coming power rises,
- all who cannot make any further savings, and
- all who will go cold and hungry this winter.
Holy Spirit, you are the creative spark which sets us ablaze, you are the warmth of love that leads us to serve the poor, you are the fire in our bellies that leads us to cry for justice; Inspire, we beg you, those who aspire to lead our nations
- to work for justice,
- to be creative with reforming our broken energy markets, and
- to offer relief to all who dread the coming months, that none may go cold or hungry this winter.
Eternal One, in the midst of our praises and our prayers, we’re worried,
- worried about our own bills,
- worried about our church’s bills,
- worried about how the groups who use our church will afford to continue,
- worried about how we can make a difference in these difficult times.
Keep us ever alive to your spirit, allow us to find ways to open our doors and our hearts to your promptings, to unleash our resources of time, talent and treasure, that none may go cold or hungry this winter.
Amen
