For Week of January 18, 2021

“In Whom to Dwell Is to Find Peace and Security”

O God, the Creator and Preserver of all mankind; in whom to dwell is to find peace and security; toward whom to turn is to find life and life eternal, we humbly beseech Thee for all sorts and conditions of men; that thou wouldst be pleased to make thy ways known unto them, Thy saving health unto all nations. We also pray for thy holy Church universal; that it may be so guided and governed by thy Spirit, that all who profess and call themselves Christians may be led into the way of truth, and hold the faith in unity of spirit, in the (land?) of peace, and in righteousness of life. Finally, we commend to thy Fatherly goodness all those who are in any way afflicted or distressed in mind or body. Give them patience under the suffering and power of endurance. This we ask in the name of Jesus. Amen.

One of several prayers Dr. King gave for a radio broadcast from Ebenezer Church in Atlanta, Georgia, July 5 – September 6, 1953. These were handwritten prayers that highlighted “confession and repentance in a worship service.”

“Thou, Dear God”

Prayers That Open Hearts and Spirits:

The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Edited and Introduction by Lewis V. Baldwin, Beacon Press: Boston, 2012

This week we will continue to pray for the United States of America while reflecting upon this prayer and the Word of God. I am inviting you

to read the biblical references used by Dr. King in sermons published in his book Strength to Love.

Monday – “A Tough Mind and A Tender Heart”, Matthew 10:16

Tuesday – “Transformed Nonconformist”, Romans 12:2

Wednesday – “On Being a Good Neighbor”, Luke 10:29

Thursday – “Love in Action”, Luke 23:34

Friday – “Loving Your Enemies”, Matthew 5:43-45

Saturday – “The Death of Evil Upon the Seashore”, Exodus 14:30

Sunday – “Antidotes for Fear”, 1 John 4:18