Praying for peaceful elections is something I have done over the years for other countries. This year let us pray for our country’s election that it is peaceful and the voices of all the people are heard.

God, this has been a hard, difficult year.  As we approach the final months of celebrations, family gatherings, Advent and Christmas we are acutely aware of the difficulties and polarities of our culture and communities as we move towards election day. Some of us sense excitement and some of us sense dread. The tension on social media, the news, in conversations and meetings is obvious.

As we cast our votes and as we await the results of the election help us to remember what Jesus taught us in the Gospels about the poor, the refugee, the migrant, the sick, the homeless, the young, the old, the hungry, the lonely. Help us to remember the “least” among us.  Help us to remember what you call us to do as people of faith as we cast our votes and as we move forward after the election.

God, you are a lover of justice and equity. You call us to support the weak, help all who suffer and to feed the hungry. By the power of your Holy Spirit make us advocates for your justice, and instruments of your peace. Despite our fatigue and weariness of this election season, of this entire year, grant us your peace that renews us and nudges us forward to engage in acts of justice and peacemaking.

Hear us.  In Christ’s name. Amen.