Second Sunday of Lent (A) Mar 8, 2020

We pray that as Christians we may listen more attentively and with greater urgency than ever before to the words of Jesus; that we may be more aware of his presence with us, both in our worship and in our daily ministry, and that we may have the courage to live out his truth with joy.

We pray for those who do not know the Lord or dismiss him as irrelevant to their lives; we pray for those who influence and encourage others in what is evil, destructive or depraved, and ask that the Lord give protection to all who are vulnerable and in danger.

We pray for all who are adjusting to new relationships in the family, new homes or new work and leisure patterns; we pray for stronger root growth in the Lord, so that we are not thrown by the changes and troubles of everyday life, knowing the reality of his faithfulness.

We pray for all who are too exhausted or overwhelmed by circumstances and pressures to be able to pray; may the Lord surround all those who are troubled and heavily laden with the revitalising assurance of your presence, his understanding and his love.

We pray that those who have gone through death may know the brightness of everlasting life; may we, with them, come to experience the glory and joy of heaven.