Sabeel Wave of Prayer: Week of Jan. 23, 2017
Wave of Prayer: This prayer ministry enables local and international friends of Sabeel to pray over regional concerns on a weekly basis. Sent to Sabeel’s network of supporters, the prayer is used in services around the world and during Sabeel’s Thursday Communion service; as each community in its respective time zone lifts these concerns in prayer at noon every Thursday, this “wave of prayer” washes over the world.
A fire broke out in the village of Ein Nakuba in East Jerusalem Saturday, killing a 36 year old Palestinian mother, and her three children, aged 3, 6 and 10. According to investigators at the scene, the blaze likely began after a heater in Hanadi Jabar’s home burst into flames.
Lord, we pray for the family of the victims of this catastrophe. We ask you God to comfort the heart of the father and to give him your peace. Lord in your mercy…
Donald Trump was inaugurated as the 45th president of the United States last week. Millions of protesters have taken to the streets of the main cities in the US and around the globe to rally for equal human rights for all, especially women, ethnic and religious groups, people with special needs and the environment. The demonstrations highlighted strong discontent over Trump’s comments and policy positions towards a wide range of issues.
Lord God, you alone are sovereign over the nations; you see both the good and the evil committed by individuals and governments. On the occasion of the beginning of U.S. President Trump’s term in office, we pray that you would guide him into leading his country in making long-awaited decisions for peace and justice, especially with regard to Israel and Palestine. May the USA and all the international community recognize the role they can and must play in this conflict – to end Israel’s prolonged occupation and oppressive policies. Lord, in your mercy…
In a statement from Moscow, Hamas and Fatah have agreed to establish a Palestinian unity government after holding unity talks last week. According to the deal, the Palestinian factions – including the Islamic Jihad – will join the Palestine Liberation Organization institutions and form a new Palestinian National Council. Peace among these two factions will support peace efforts in the region, and relieve much suffering for those trapped within the Gaza strip.
Lord, we ask that you make the common factors between these two parties stronger than their differences. Dear God, allow the goals of peace and the end of suffering of our people to become the focal point for both political factions. Lord, in your mercy…
The Arab citizens of Israel continue to protest the Israeli government’s campaign of home demolitions. Last Friday, tens of thousands of Israeli Arabs conducted the Muslim prayers at Umm al-Hiran village. Also, thousands of demonstrators took to the streets, Saturday, in the town of Ar’ara in northern Israel.
Lord, thousands of Palestinian worshipers bowed their heads and fell on their knees seeking your help. The people of our land feel abandoned, but remain hopeful and continue to have faith in your justice. Strengthen the faith of our communities by reminding the people of the history of this land, the powerful disappear into the unknown and the meek inherit the earth. Lord in your mercy…
We join the World Council of Churches in praying for the countries of Cyprus, Greece and Turkey. Lord in your mercy…