God Bless Our Nation

God Bless Our Nation 

Here in North America we are between National Holidays.  Yesterday, July 1 was Canada Day and in a couple of days on July 4 it will be Independence Day in United States.

For many months we’ve heard so much about the checkered history in our past as these countries were colonized.  It takes great grace and wisdom to know how to sort out historical injustices and know how to move forward as one people together.  Only God is wise enough to show us a good way forward and give all of us the humility and willingness to take appropriate steps.

Some of Jesus’ most famous words help me see the way forward for all of us.

God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. God blesses those who are humble,     for they will inherit the whole earth. God blesses those who hunger and thirst for justice, for they will be satisfied.

Matthew 5:3, 5-6

God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy. God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God. God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God.

Matthew 5:7-9

Heavenly Father of us all, We pray that hearts and minds would be touched and brought to a realization that Your ways, God are right.  Help us to long for truth, and to always speak up for and give witness to those things that are just and true and right for every time and every culture.

Take away arrogance and hatred which infect all our hearts. Break down the walls that separate us. Unite us

in bonds of love; and work through our struggles and confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth.

No matter where in the world we live, we pray to live in peace with our neighbours and to look to You for direction in all our affairs.  We ask that Your favour rest on us, on governments who seek justice and truth and that people in every country on every continent may be guided by Your wisdom so peoples may flourish and prosper.  Amen