Weekly Prayer – April 2, 2025

Written by Rev. Catherine Nance

O God of Purple, 

We probably need to confess that we are growing weary of the purple colors in the Nave reminding us it is Lent. We have confessed, we have journeyed, we have given up and given more, and we are tired. We know that purple is the color of penitence. We are sorry. We are sorry for the helpless feelings we have when we see people in the world hurting; we are sorry for the inadequacies we feel when neighbors are asking for help. We know that you suffer for us and with us, O God of purple and God of the cross. 

O God of Purple, we are reminded that the deep color is also one signifying royalty. There are leaders and celebrities around us who would like to be called “King,” but you are our only king. King of kings and Lord of lords! We sang it back during Christmas. We are ready to sing it again, O God. We want a strong and powerful king who will swoop in and make things right. At least, make them how we think they should be. So much feels wrong right now. We must confess, when we see a king on the cross and not on a throne, we sometimes wonder, what kind of kingdom are you leading us to? Forgive us for thinking royalty always means wealth. May we seek your kingdom, O God, and truly trust in your leading. 

O God of Purple, as crocus and irises bloom you remind us that there is new life. That what once seemed like hopelessness and despair suddenly reaches towards the light – slowly and deliberately – and purple brings us joy and hope. O God of Purple, may we stand in the splendor and beauty of your creation, and reclaim, remember what we know.  God of Purple and God of Lent, you have made all of the colors and you receive all of our prayers, whether they are in dark hues or pastels, whether they feel heavy in our hearts or light. Thank you for hearing our prayers and for giving us hope. 

It is in that hope that we offer the prayers for your world and these concerns and thanksgivings from our church family …..

We pray for…

• A member who is in rehab after having two strokes
• A mom who seeks wisdom in raising young adults
• A wife grieving the death of her husband while she recovers from surgery in rehab
• A member who is working on getting stronger at rehab; hopes to go home soon!
• All of those who are experiencing ‘compassion fatigue.’ May they not judge themselves for taking care of their own needs!
• A friend who received notice about her department being shut down at work.
• A member recovering from an infection and patiently waiting for surgery; thankful for all of the prayers.
• A mother dealing with a recent diagnosis and waiting on further testing.
• A friend who has cancer; pray that tumor will shrink so that surgery can be performed; prayers for her husband to have strength through all of this.
• Friends and family going through a difficult time.
• A father who is following up with physician after severe chest pains; prayers for his children.
• A friend who had to have her beloved dog put to sleep; this adds to grief already there. May she be comforted by love of family and friends.
• A member who fell; is back at assisted living but dealing with missing being at church.
• A member who continues to be a witness to God’s love even as they deal with cancer.

We continue to pray for….

• An infant who has had three successful surgeries; continued prayers for healing.
• Family members/friends who are dealing with addiction issues and dealing with the legal system. 
• Those who are receiving chemo and/or radiation treatments.
• Family members who are trying to balance caregiving and work and family responsibilities.
• Those who are impacted by homelessness.
• So many who are dealing with Alzheimers and how best to care for family members. Praying for strength!

Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen.