As we approach tomorrow’s General Election, here are some prayers for the election, our nation, and our leaders. Many of these prayers are adapted from the Book of Common Prayer and the United Methodist Book of Worship.
Prayer for the Election
Almighty God, to whom we must account for all our powers and privileges: Guide the people of our country and the communities in which we serve in the election of officials and representatives; that, by faithful administration and wise laws, the rights of all may be protected and our nation be enabled to fulfill your purposes; though Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (Adapted from the Book of Common Prayer.)
Prayer for our Nation
Teach us, God of every nation, to see every question of national policy in the light of our faith, that we may check in ourselves and in others every passion that makes for war, all ungenerous judgment, all promptings of self-assurance, all presumptuous claims. Grant us insight to recognize the needs and aspirations of other nations, and remove our suspicions and misunderstandings, that we may honor all people in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (Book of Worship)
Prayer for the Church
Lord, in this election year it is easy to get caught up in the propaganda. We can get so caught up in it, that we become defined by what is said by those on the Left and the Right, by those who are Democrats and by those who are Republicans. We pray for the church tomorrow and always that in the midst of polarization, we might be a faithful witness of your truth and love. For those times where we may have led by our own political desires and not by your truth, we ask for your forgiveness. Guide your church to be unified, not by our political identities, but by our witness of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Prayer for President Barack Obama
O Lord our Governor, whose glory is in all the world: We commend this nation to your merciful care, that, being guided by your Providence, we may dwell secure in your peace. Grant to President Obama wisdom and strength to know and to do your will. Fill him with the love of truth and righteousness, and make him ever mindful of his calling to serve his people in your fear; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, world without end. Amen. (Adapted from the Book of Common Prayer)
Prayer for Governor Mitt Romney
Gracious God, we recognize that you are our Lord and the sovereign authority in our lives. In this time, we lift up Governor Romney to you. We pray that you will fill him with the love of your truth and righteousness, and make him ever mind of his calling to serve his people in your fear: through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, world without end. Amen. (Adapted from the Book of Common Prayer)
Shannon Blosser 