Vespers - 14 October 2018

(The Oppressed): O LORD, a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you (Psalm 9.9-10); hear the cries of those being oppressed by abusive spouses, violent and violating adults, and neglectful caregivers…Hear their cries, come to their aid, and give them a way out of the oppressiveness. And, O rescuing, compassionate God, give us ears to hear their cries, the courage aid them, the wisdom to know how to get them to safe places, and protection in the process. O Lord, hear our prayer. 

(Marital Difficulties): From the very beginning you said that it is not good for a man to be alone, and gave him a helper comparable to him that together they might fulfil their God-given task of fruitful multiplication, filling the earth, subduing it, and having dominion over the earth as your priestly, regal representatives; but things went quickly sour, with marital disharmony and conflict being one of the results. We implore you to take notice of those couples who are experiencing conflicts and clashes, discord and disputes…May your Gospel, your Spirit, and your church surround them and fill them with hope, guide them toward repentance, reconciliation, and resolution, and walk them into better days ahead.  O Lord, hear our prayer. 

 (Raising Children): First, we thank you for our children, grown and growing up. And thank you, O God, that you delight to call us – who are often disorderly and disobedient – you delight to call us your children, and to be called our Father. We ask you to be with those who have children at home – at whatever age – and give them discernment to know how to raise them well. May the children of our church and families flourish in godliness, faith, hope and love as they grow into adults. May their parents have the mental, emotional and physical energy they need. O Lord, hear our prayer.

(Generalities): Finally, Father, we have other people or other situations on our hearts. In this silence listen to our concerns and longings, answer our prayers, and show us your consideration and kindness …. O Lord, hear our prayer.