Prayers of the People: Epiphany 3 A

Here’s a prayer of intercession inspired by the suggested scripture readings for the third Sunday of Epiphany, Year A.  It was written by Richard Bansemer, and posted on the Lutheran Forum website.

Prayer of Intercession

Heavenly Father, involved in our history from the beginning, we ask you to shine your great light upon our country, along with all other countries, whether they be friend or foe. All of us need oppression to end, darkness to vanish, and peace to reign.
Let us walk: In the light of the Lord.

Lord Jesus Christ, we have no fear when you are our light and our salvation. To be a believer, to live in your house, is to behold your beauty. We sing for joy as we seek your face.
Let us walk: In the light of the Lord.

Lord Jesus Christ, God incarnate, forbid us from trying to empty your cross of its power by using false wisdom or glib praise. Help us see that your cross, which is foolishness to so many, is the very power of God.
Let us walk: In the light of the Lord.

Holy Spirit, as you guided the disciples to leave their nets by the sea in order to follow Jesus, inspire us to lay aside those things that are peripheral to faith. Help us see our need to repent, as both John the Baptist and Jesus preached.
Let us walk: In the light of the Lord.

Great Physician, Jesus Christ, you proclaimed good news and cured all sorts of diseases among the people. We, like them, yearn for the healing of our bodies and souls. We name those whom we know who need your good news and your healing touch _____.
Let us walk: In the light of the Lord.

As the days continue to lengthen, nights shorten, and you prepare the earth for the season of spring, prepare our hearts too, that we may always walk with you.
Let us walk: In the light of the Lord.

Make all our petitions selfless, like those you taught us to pray.  Amen.

~ written by Richard Bansemer, and posted on the Lutheran Forum website. http://www.lutheranforum.org/prayers/year-a/Prayers_for_the_Epiphany_Season/