“May the God of Hope fill you with all joy and peace, as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit”
Gracious God, as we continue to focus on the hope of the coming of Jesus into our world, we remember those today still fighting for justice and human rights, those who are not treated equally or fairly, simply because of the colour of their skin, their gender, their age or their social disposition. Lord God, when Jesus walked the earth, he showed us what it truly means to treat people with respect and build inclusive communities where are all are made welcome. So today we think of those campaigning for the civil rights of others, for those living with the effects of the freedoms denied them by society, for those striving to create a future filled with opportunities for their children. Lord, help us, wherever we are, to support those who work actively to build up communities where the voices of all are heard, and where all are afforded the hope that comes from being truly valued and loved by You, in order that they may experience life in all its fullness. In the name of Jesus we pray, Amen.