A prayer for courage to embrace the needs of the world

Lord, we want an easy life – we come to you to escape our difficulties, for a solution to our problems, to find security. But you call us to take up our cross and follow you into the world in all its complexity, difficulties, pain, uncertainties, and godforsakenness. As you did when you became human and walked steadfastly toward the Cross.

You are calling us to enter and embrace the world that we might be a source of healing, hope and transformation, even when it costs us. Many are fleeing war, poverty, and violence; Lord, what does it mean for us to join them on their journeys? 

Dr David N Field, Theological Dialogue Council of Bishops, United Methodist Church