A Fourth of July Prayer for Faithful Citizenship

As we come together to celebrate the Fourth of July, the birth of this nation we call home, we are thankful for all the opportunities and lessons provided for us. As we reflect on this country’s history, we are reminded that we must stay strong during these trying times. Across the world, and in this country, our strength is being tested every day. As Christians, we must remember to follow the teachings of the LORD and to respect human dignity and love one another just as God respects and loves us. 

Over the next two weeks there will be regional meetings across the country with the goal of meeting with members of Congress during the August recess by sharing our stories and the stories of our neighbors facing hunger, so that they will be inspired by us and do what is right. We are thankful that we are able to live in a place where this opportunity to share our stories is presented to us and that we can help shape the future to be one full of your love. 

Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to a king as the one in authority, or to governors as sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right. For such is the will of God, that by doing right you silence the ignorance of foolish people. Act as free people, and do not use your freedom as a covering for evil, but use it as bond-servants of God. 1 Peter 2:13-16 New American Standard Bible (NASB)

Let us pray.

Thank you, God,

For creating and breathing life into every person

And shaping each and every person into your divine image.

We thank you for giving us inherent dignity and the ability to love one another

Just as you love us.

We pray that you watch over the Regional Meetings happening across the country

Over the next few days and weeks

And that you strengthen the hearts of those taking part 

to follow the teachings of our LORD Jesus Christ.

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

the One we follow,

Jesus the 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.