Image by David Stucke, Dakotas Conference Communications

Gracious and Precious Spirit of Life, 

We cry out to you, Lord, in this time of waiting, hoping, fearing. Sometimes, we wish we can skip the messy process full of pain, uncertainty, and confusion and get to the end result. We are hurt and afraid. We know that you, God, are not the source of our pain but are ever present with us creating something beautiful as you continually restore us to wholeness. Help us to see and trust in your kingdom vision in this process as you continually shape and mold us into something beautiful and new as we hope and imagine for the future. 

Remind us, precious God, that we are one humanity in Christ; no insiders, no outsiders. You, Jesus, are our peace, using your body to destroy boundaries of hatred, hostility, and division between us (Eph. 2:14-16). Help us to allow ourselves to continue to be built as one Church with you, Christ, as our cornerstone. Help us to truly see every single one of us as beautiful image-bearers of you and help us to love each other accordingly. 

We ask, Lord, that we feel your loving arms wrapped around us, holding us, comforting us, and guiding us. 

In your holy and gracious name,

Amen. 

(Access other Strategy Team prayers here)