Here’s another prayer – featured now in my free e-book For Such a Time as This – that may help you to find words to articulate some of your thoughts and fears when you’re struggling to pray during these dark days of the coronavirus pandemic, reminding you that, however much it may feel like it, you are not alone.
In this time of crisis, Lord
In this time of crisis, Lord,
you call us to pull together,
as families,
as friends,
as communities.
Thank you for those who are leading the way in doing that:
relatives helping loved ones,
neighbours helping neighbours,
support groups reaching out to strangers,
individuals responding to the plight of the vulnerable.
Thank you especially today for the efforts of shops and supermarkets to do likewise,
setting aside shopping times and delivery slots for those most at risk.
Forgive those whose thoughts are only for themselves –
people who, devoid of conscience, are panic buying,
who are hoarding food and provisions,
who are stripping shelves,
without any consideration for those far more in need than themselves.
Forgive the heartlessness,
the greed,
the selfishness,
that looks only after number one
and cares nothing for anyone else.
Challenge and shame such behaviour,
and prosper the efforts of all who are seeking to show compassion,
concern
and care
to those least able to help themselves.
We are all in this together.
Prompt each and every one of us to realise that.
Amen.