Take a moment to refresh, refocus, and refine you faith.
Sovereign Lord, may we be forces for peace and dignity not only for ourselves and our loved ones but for those with whom we disagree. May we not sink to vilifying, even in jest, those with opposing views or practices on the simple basis of opinion. Give us eyes with the compassionate perspective of Christ to see people with whom we conflict. Lead us in giving thanks for individuals who anger and frustrate us. Teach us to desire and act for their good so that they would see you in us and join together in building societies of peace. Amen.
1 Timothy 2:1-2, 8
First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. . . . Therefore I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and dissension.