A prayer for refugees

Our Gracious Lord Jesus,

When you walked this earth, you cared for the poor, the needy, the outcasts.
Have mercy on those who have been forced from their homes by the persecution and violence of the wicked.
Keep them in your constant care, and bring them to a place of safety—both in this world and for all eternity.

Be the Good Shepherd to refugees who are in flight. Guide them to the green pastures of safety.
Be the Everlasting Father to the widows and fatherless who have lost loved ones. Lead, protect and provide for them.
Be the Great Physician to those who are sick or suffering. Grant them healing and hope in body, mind and spirit.
Be the Hiding Place to those who are languishing in camps, uncertain of where they will find a home. Shelter their souls as well as their bodies.
Be the Strong Deliverer to those in danger on the sea or on land, and give them grace to know the forgiveness of the cross.
Be the Restorer of their lives so that those who have sown in tears may reap in joy.
Be the Wonderful Counselor to the leaders of our nations, that those who rule would do so in justice and righteousness, and that they would work to do right, even when it might be unpopular.
Be the Giver of all good gifts to those who seek to serve refugees. Enable them to give comfort, practical aid and empower them to do justice and love mercy and walk humbly with you.
And be the Lord of your Church—that those who bear your name might follow your example of self-giving sacrifice for those who are lost without you. Provoke your people to give, welcome and comfort those in need, and to share with them the gospel of peace that will bring them into your eternal kingdom.
We ask these things in the precious and powerful name of Jesus.

Amen.