Holy God, who guided Your Son to pray for unity within Your church, unify us anew. Remove the parts of our doctrines that are based on the philosophies of men and the traditions of this world. Purify our individual hearts that we would have the one mind of Christ, seeking to worship You and love others. And, Lord, reform us as we confess our sins and forgive those who have sinned against us.
On this day of remembrance, we, as members of Your Body, plead for Your intervention in our world. This is not a time for the forces of evil to celebrate. This is a time for Your glory to be seen for miles and decades in these places of darkness. Shine, Lord Jesus, among Your people and pour Your mercy upon the captives, freeing them to likewise shine for You. You are able. You hold all power and authority. We trust Your decisions and timing.
Thank You for those members of Your church who loved You more they feared men. Thank You for their faithfulness. May we be faithful, too, seeking Your face, carrying our crosses, and embracing the sacrifice, knowing that in losing our lives we gain Christ.
In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.
