Prayer: He is here!

Lord, I acknowledge that there are pains I cannot explain and questions for which I may never find an answer. But, in the midst of everything I do not understand, I want to remember that I was not created to walk alone. Draw near to me and also to those around me. May Your presence be at the center of my relationships so that, even when life seems difficult, I may find in the fellowship of my brothers and sisters a place of welcome, care, and hope.

When someone around me is passing through a valley, may I not remain distant, but draw near with love, compassion, and a willingness to make the burden easier to carry. May I know how to weep with those who weep, listen without trying to explain everything, and remain by the side of those who need me. May Your presence in us remind us that we are part of one body and that the pain of one should also awaken the care of others.

God, enter my relationships and transform that which is still marked by selfishness, distance, lack of forgiveness, or indifference. Where there is division, bring reconciliation. Where there is hurt, bring grace. Where there is pride, teach me to take the first step. Do not allow suffering to drive us away from one another, but use even the difficult moments to teach us to love more deeply, to care for each other, and to remain together.