Gracious God, we praise you for the changing of the seasons. Autumn is upon us. Leaves are changing from a vibrant green to a panoply of shades of orange, brown, and red. We ooh and ahh at the beauty of your Creation. The days swing back and forth between warm and cool. Ever more, the sun hangs lower in the sky, the nights grow chillier and heavier blankets are pulled from closets. Church youth retreats, homecoming celebrations, the raking of leaves and carving of pumpkins are underway. We thank you, O God, for being ever watchful and caring of us in this season.
Cleanse us from sin, O Lord. May we not ignore the mounting number of mass shootings in our nation, the intensifying violence in the Holy Land, the urgent plight of refugees in Europe, and the suffering experienced by those in pain and poverty. Open our eyes, our ears, and our hearts that we may reach out to those alienated and isolated, dealing with addictions, fearful and hurting. Purify our lives and lips that we may be dedicated to your service.
As the Day of Thanksgiving approaches, make us truly thankful for your grace and love. Let us dance for joy for the gifts you bestowed upon us. Be patient with us, Creator, as we stumble toward you. It is with gladness and singleness of heart that we worship in your Name.
Jim Winkler,
President and General Secretary of National Council of Churches
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