In reading Nelson Mandela biography, as well as a book by Richard Stengel called 'Mandela's Way', I was inspired to write the prayer of a peace leader. This prayer is informed by the many lessons and values that can be found in the astonishing life of Nelson Mandela. It is meant to be a communal prayer, but it can also be read as a personal one. I share this prayer with you, with this encouragement; we are all leaders, we can all bring peace to the places we live in.
Prayers of a Peace Leader
Thank you Lord for reminding us that love makes the difference. Teach us humility and humanity, and to yield in confidence as victory. Guide us and teach us discipline as we learn to love better each day.
Continue to remind us that consistency for its own sake is a false virtue, and inconsistency is not automatically a flaw. Remind us that you created all voices, you value all voices , and that we are meant to value all voices too.
As we lead others, lead us to places to rest in, that we might rejuvenate our hearts in you and find strength to encourage your people. Give us places of life that fill us up, that we might serve you better and encourage your people.
As we are just with those who are friend and others, be just with us. Where there is injustice, give us courage to confront it. Where there has been no peace before, give us strength to pioneer new ways of being. Teach us to embrace Kingdom principles as we lead, that we might embrace your will on earth, as it is in heaven.
Teach us when to pursue the fight, and when to relinquish our position so that we might continue being a light of hope. Teach us to cultivate habits that ask questions of merit and contemplate truth. Teach us to guard the vulnerable and protect the broken hearted. Teach us to be slow and wise, and to nurture the generations.
Give us peace and healing, that we might invite other to peace and healing. May we make peace with those who rival against us, and abound in warmth and generosity to every person we meet. Teach us to communicate well and lead your people in love. Teach us to love like you love, and honour like you honour.
Amen.
Remember to post comments, or to email me if you have ideas for a blog post! Email me at brandi.j.thorpe@gmail.com.
In joy, -B.
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