A Prayer for Courageous Witness and Hope

We are grateful for Shamus McMahon, our summer intern for spiritual formation and wellness, for writing this installment.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 (New International Version)

As we come together today, we celebrate the hard work and dedication of our brothers and sisters who have been preparing across the country in order to meet with members of Congress during the August congressional recess. In doing this, they will share our stories and the stories of our neighbors facing hunger, inspiring them to do what is right. Today, we also celebrate the birthday of Nelson Mandela, who leaves behind a legacy that inspires us to advocate for our neighbors and to do what is right. Just like Mandela, we will fight for the rights we deserve – the right to live free of hunger. We thank you, LORD, for this opportunity you have given us to advocate for each other and express your love. 

Let us pray. 

Thank you, God,

For bringing us together today

Open our hearts to receive your love, 

And may it guide us throughout our days. 

We thank you for preparing our brothers and sisters for their journeys ahead

We pray for the strength and grace over the next few weeks 

As we meet with our members of congress

So that we may inspire them to do what is right, by sharing our stories. 

Please open their ears to hear us, 

and their hearts to feel us. 

We lift these prayers to you, the One we trust,

The One we follow, Jesus Christ,

Amen

On behalf of all of us at Bread for the World, know that we hold you in our prayers. May the peace of our Lord, Jesus Christ, be with you in the coming days.