Here, Robert Covolo shares a prayer from our recent Reimagining Work event. Join us in prayer over our public servants and the important work they do for the flourishing of our communities.
This prayer is adapted from the Nashville Institute for Faith + Work: A Vocational Prayer for Government Workers
Father, you are the Just Administrator.
Thank you for the public servants involved in governing our cities, our states, and our country. Help them to understand the importance of their work for the flourishing of our shared life. Please keep them from abusing their power or exploiting their position.
And Lord we especially thank you for the many Christians who are involved in public service in greater Los Angeles. We think of Sheriff Luna, and of City Council members Oscar Martinez in Whittier, Angie Reyes in Hawthorne, Dennis Beckwith in Azusa, and many others. Just as you came not to be served, but to serve, may they follow your example as they put others first in their service.
Lord, may all of us as citizens demonstrate civility, speak up for righteousness, and stand up against evil. Teach us how to honor and pay our debt of love toward those with whom we disagree. As we engage in public life keep us from snarky attitudes and hateful speech—which is unbecoming of a child of God. Remind us that each person working in these sectors of public service is created in Your image. Lord, may our disagreements help us flourish rather than wither, and come together rather than divide.
Thank you Lord for your dominion and reign over every living thing and over the entire universe. There is not one square inch of creation over which you do not cry, “Mine!” Nor is there any leader’s heart beyond Your reach. We ask for You to accomplish Your divine will through these public servants. Turn their hearts so that your will be done, on earth--in our cities, county, and state--as it is in heaven.
This we ask in the name of the world's true king, Jesus.
Amen.
Robert Covolo is a Cultural Theologian and Author of Fashion Theology. He is also on staff here at the Center for Faith + Work Los Angeles, serving as our Director of Vocational Discipleship.