Teach us to love like you

Lord, God of love and justice,

Teach us to love like you,
and not hate in the way that comes naturally.
Not to hold grudges.
Not to act in violence.
Not to assume the worst.
Not to secretly rejoice when an enemy stumbles.
Not to have enemies.

Teach us to hate sin
and love the sinner.
We are sinners.
Each of us, is no better than another in God’s eyes.
God does not love any of us more than any other,
so why should we?

Teach our leaders to love–
our governors, mayors, judges, prosecutors, and lawmakers
to govern from a place of love and righteousness,
not power, privilege, or prejudice.

By this will all men know that we are your disciples,
if we have love one for another.
We don’t get to choose who to love.
That’s not loving like you
because you chose all of us.
But you left the decision up to us.

Heal our land through love.
Love is justice.
Love is collective responsibility.
Love is mercy and grace and accountability.
Love is being willing to give up unjust systems
and reach across political lines.
Love is necessary change.

Love breaks through brokenness and hangs on a cross for people who reject the truth.

Teach us to love like you love us!

I pray for justice for George Floyd.
I pray for peace and resolution to this unjust homicide.
I pray for the Minneapolis Police Department and justice system,
that they would be righteous and vigilant in changing their present mode of operation.
I pray for my city and all the other cities who are experiencing rioting and looting–
who are crying out under a system where they have never been fully heard.
Hear our prayers, Lord.

I pray that everyone who is angered about the racial tension and injustice in our country
would push for change in a responsible and ethical manner.

Forgive us, Lord, for our anger, self-righteousness, and prejudice.
I pray for your blessing and mercy on this who repent of this.
I pray for conviction and judgment for those who don’t.

In all things, I trust you.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.