Prayer in a Time of Economic Distress

We have ignored our Christian values, O Lord,
And have not only given in to greed, the lure of money,
and the relentless pursuit of self interest,
But we have praised and worshipped these vices as false idols
And admired those who were successful though void of virtue
And promoted lives of excess and self-indulgence at the peril of all.

Call us back to humility, to dependence on Your truth and mercy.
Help us practice prudence to make financial decisions not only wisely
But selflessly with the common good in mind.
Help us practice generosity
Even when we are afraid we might not have enough.
Help us remember that we must all take part
In reshaping our society
And bearing the responsibility that is ours
to create a national and global community
Where the rights of all
And the responsibilities of all are of equal concern.

Guide us through this distressing time.
Give us the strength to turn again
And realize in You and in human community
We will find our true security. Amen.

-by Jane Deren
www.educationforjustice.org