I’ve never written anything overtly ‘political’ before, but I am deeply ashamed of the way the British Government is exploiting and crushing the poor, the sick, those who are disabled, the homeless and those who cannot afford justice. So yesterday, I just had to write the following prayer:
Justice, mercy and compassion
In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus (Philippians 2:5; NIV).
‘Love your neighbour as yourself’ (Luke 10:27; NIV).
I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh (Ezekiel 36:26; NIV).
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others (1 Peter 4:10; NIV).
This is what the LORD Almighty said, ‘Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another’ (Zechariah 7:9; NIV).
Father,
I’m ashamed
To be British.
Unemployed people
Are now being forced into
Zero hours contracts,
Losing their benefits
If they refuse.
Lord,
Please help those with power
To understand
That justice, mercy
And compassion
Are essential
In all their dealings
With those who have
No power at all.
I ask this in the name of Christ,
Amen.