Praying the News, “During” – November 2016

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PRAYING THE NEWS: Ways to pray before, during, and after

As people of faith, the watching, listening to, reading, and discussing the news offers us an opportunity to pray. Prayer is a positive, life-giving response to the news. Prayer lifts our concerns before God, asks for help and guidance, and helps us find a faithful response, no matter what the news presents.

Here are some suggestions on ways to pray during the news. Additional posts feature suggestions on ways to pray before or after the news. Suggestions about scripture passages and hymns that may be useful will also be posted.

During

During the news, watch for opportunities to thank God for moments of mercy, acts of justice or kindness, or beauty, awe, and creativity.

Thank you, God, for the relief workers who arrived so quickly.

   Praise God for this new law that increases support against human trafficking!

When the tragedies are reported, voice your prayer for God’s mercy.

As photos of damaged homes fill the screen, you turn immediately to prayer: Christ, have mercy. Lord, have mercy, Christ, have mercy!

   As details of a bombing are relayed, you respond immediately with prayer: Christ, have mercy. Lord, have mercy, Christ, have mercy!

When specific needs are described, offer a prayer immediately.

God, bring help quickly!

   God, protect this family!

Offered by Jane Jakoubek, Good Shepherd Member and Spiritual Director