Holy Lord, we want little else than to lead a life worthy of the calling to which You have called us. For these legislators, it is to remain committed not just to the needs of their constituents, not just to the welfare of these United States, but to be faithful to the expectations You place on each one of them.
Therefore, with all humility and gentleness, may we approach the issues at hand. With patience, may we bear with one another in love, even with those across the aisle to whom we are adamantly opposed. Instead, may we make every effort to maintain the unity of Your spirit, which has brought us here in this place to work together for the common good.
Remind us again that You are the same God and Father of us all. You have bestowed on each of us the same grace, according to the measure of forgiveness and mercy You offer all who believe in You.
Let us then strive to speak truth in love, that our words would be lifted up in glory to You. For in You this whole body is called to be joined and knit together, to build itself up in love, as each of us participates in the work You have given us to do.
In Your compassionate name, we pray. Amen.
Are you worried because you find it so hard to believe? No one should be surprised at the difficulty of faith, if there is some part of his life where he is consciously resisting or disobeying the commandments of Jesus. Is there some part of your life that you are refusing to surrender at his behest, some sinful passion, maybe, or some animosity, some hope, perhaps your ambition or your reason? If so, you must not be surprised that you have not received the Holy Spirit, that prayer is difficult, or that your request for faith remains unanswered. Go rather and be reconciled with your brother, renounce the sin that holds you fast—and then you will recover your faith!
—Dietrich Bonhoeffer
The Interfaith Staff Prayer Room is open for congressional staff to use for personal prayer and meditation. For questions – email StaffPrayerRoom@mail.house.gov
Join us to pray Morning Prayer from the Book of Common Prayer every Wednesday during Lent in the Interfaith Staff Prayer Room. All are welcome– prayer sheets are provided. Contact richard.mcpike@mail.house.gov for more information.