When I posted the hundredth of a series of coronavirus prayers back on 24 June last year, it looked as though the crisis might be under control and that it would be just a matter of time – a few weeks or months at most – before life got back to normal. How different the reality has turned out to be. Today, more people are hospitalised with coronavirus than at the peak of the first wave last April, and the number of those dying is increasing by thousands each week. People everywhere are overwhelmed by a sense of foreboding, if not despair, and, despite the availability now of vaccines, few expect the pandemic will be over anytime soon. Here, then, is another prayer, seeking God’s help in dealing with our fear and frustration during these troubled times.
We thought it was over, Lord –
well, nearly, at any rate:
the end in sight,
the conclusion of this ghastly episode,
this nightmarish year,
at last becoming a reality.
But it hasn’t worked out like that;
not a bit of it.
Things have got worse rather than better:
more people infected,
more fighting for their lives,
more dying,
and, inevitably,
as a result,
more restrictions,
more pressure,
more devastating consequences,
not just now,
but potentially for years to come.
We’re not just frightened, Lord –
anxious for ourselves and our loved ones,
More than anything, we’re weary,
drained,
exhausted,
wondering just how many more punches we can take.
Strengthen us,
protect us,
support us,
renew us.
And grant,
in particular,
your guidance to all tasked with responding to this crisis –
politicians and administrators,
scientists and researchers,
doctors, nurses and other health workers –
as well as those whose jobs put them, personally, at risk.
May their service help to see us safely through the coming weeks and months,
until we can truly say that this pandemic is over,
and finally look forward to a better tomorrow.
Amen.