I’m for peace, but when I speak, they are for war.

Psalm 120: 7

Lift High the Cross
Crown Him with Many Crowns
From the Upper Room

In Psalm 120, it seems that the psalmist was getting frustrated at not finding any peace at all in his surroundings — or even the entire world. In a state of great stress and agony, he was asking God to deliver him from the corrupt minds who do not accept peace. In today’s world, we also may feel devastated because we cannot find peace. At times it seems that some people do not want peace, and as a result peace feels impossible to achieve. The stress of constant war and conflict makes us tired and discouraged. We see some people fighting for selfish interests, some for what they believe in, and some against ideas they oppose. The glory of God’s peace is not in winning; it is about living in God’s way — following the Prince of Peace who told his disciples, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27, NIV).

Prayer: God of peace, comfort those who are living in great turmoil, and rescue those who face persecution. Grant them your peace. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Aftab Yunis Hakim (Punjab, Pakistan)
Prayer Through The Ages
In our weakness, O Christ, let us trust your strength; in our darkness let us see your light; in our doubt let us feel your presence and in our despair let us cling to your Cross; for your truth and your mercies’ sake. Amen. 

François Fénelon (1651-1715)

Our Prayers and Prayer Requests
We invite you into our hearts, Lord — hearts that have so much on them right now. Amidst our fear, disappointment, confusion, uncertainty, grief, anger, frustration and more...

We invite you in, Lord. We know you are bigger.

For the many who have recovered from Covid19. For doctors and scientists diligently working to heal the sick.

For all leaders seeking to bring safety to their citizens and for all people who are heeding the guidelines, regulations, and sheltering in place.

For all persons on the frontlines, especially Alayne Snyder, Dr Johnny and Riny Kovoor. and Erik Lindholm who are risking their lives to help those who are sick and dying

For friends who have moved afar but are still close in our hearts: Marilyn Van Tine, Pauline and Marty Bluver and their entire family and Erna Burton.

For the Reinhardt family, Sophia Kovoor, Sean Hitch, Kathy and Mike Weinlein and all of our friends who call Valhalla home but are scattered to other states and around the world at the present time.

Come to our aid, Lord. Open our ears to hear your voice in these troubled times, may we listen and be prudent and may we draw ever closer to you as we offer these prayers, asking your help…  

May we act with humility to not just preserve our own safety and health, but to look beyond ourselves and think of how our actions will affect others.

May we be alert to the ways we may help those around us, and give us the grace to step forward without hesitation to be men and women for and with others, for Your greater glory.
 
We ask for guidance for parents, children, youth and teachers adjusting to new ways of learning.

Healing and restoration for all who are sick or infected by the virus.

Protection for the vulnerable the elderly, the poor, those with health issues and all who are essential for the meeting of our primary needs.

Provision for all needed medical supplies and stamina and strength for all personnel.

Blessing on our church and all churches, pastors, staff, and congregations as we offer your Love and Grace to all and to receive the financial support to do so.

Holy Spirit move among us and through us to find new opportunities to be your faithful disciples and spread the love of Jesus Christ in the world.

We offer our thanks and praise that You are with us, we are not alone!

O Christ, let us hold fast to your love, embrace your Cross and honor your name. Let conviction mark our speech, courage our life and patience our faith; for your own name’s sake. Amen.
Valhalla United Methodist Church | 200 Columbus Avenue, Valhalla NY 10595
914-949-6252 | valhallaumc@verizon.net | https://valhallaumc.org/