Read:  Mark 3:22-25

Reflect:  With every passing day, it feels like our nation is becoming more and more “a house divided”.  Instead of welcoming and celebrating a diverse citizenry, we’ve become a nation where power and wealth are held by a select few at the expense of the many.  The public work of governance is no longer about doing what’s best for the greatest number of persons, but about holding on tightly to power, wealth, and privilege for oneself or one’s political party at all costs. Those in power have little or no accountability for their actions; they believe themselves to be above the law – even the law of God.  Such a house cannot stand for long.  Thankfully, Jesus shows us another way.  A way where all are welcome, all are valued, all are loved for the beautiful and gifted individuals God created them to be.  A way where the most vulnerable are protected and cared for.  A way in which one’s treasure is not centered in material wealth or power, but their abundance of love and care for others.

Prayer:  O God, you form all humanity to bear your divine image, and you intend for everyone to live together in harmonious dignity.  We pray for all people, whether ourselves or others, who suffer the cruelties of racial or ethnic prejudice.  Grant your Spirit of power to all who are oppressed.  Give healing to victims of violence, protection to the vulnerable and abused, better housing and worthy employment to the mistreated, courage to the fearful, a remedy for rage, strength to parents and caregivers, and hope to children and youth.  Purge the privileged of their sense of superiority, and lead church and society to foster communities of equity and diversity; through Jesus Christ, our loving Savior.  Amen. (from All Creation Sings, p. 50.  ©2020 Augsburg Fortress, used by permission.)