Praying the Lord’s Prayer with those who are homeless

We confess today our faith in you, and that we know your will and way for us—but don’t necessarily want to live it:

“If anyone among you becomes poor, and falls into poverty, then you shall help them, like a resident alien…Fear your God, that they may live with you“ (Leviticus 25:35-36).

When we ask you, “What shall we do?”—we are uncomfortable with your answer:

“He answered and said to them, ‘He who has two tunics, let him give to him who has none; and he who has food, let him do likewise’“ (Luke 3:10-11).

We know your description of who is blessed, but struggle to understand it:

“Blessed are you poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. Blessed are you who hunger now, for you shall be filled“ (Luke 6:20-21).

We do not want to be counted among those who only love you with our words. We want to love you “in deed and in truth” (1 John 3:17-18),

Therefore, hear us as we pray with those who are homeless:

“Our Father”

Draw those who feel abandoned, orphaned, and alone into the embrace of your welcoming love.

Embolden us to live as brothers and sisters with all people, especially those among whom we may feel threatened and out of control.

“Give us this day, our daily bread.”

Provide through us the resources and new structures, so that no one seeks their daily bread in garbage bins, and no one goes to sleep hungry.

“Forgive us our trespasses.”

Liberate us from the paralysis of being overwhelmed by needs.

Pour your mercy into all hearts so that we may experience your healing and transforming love.

“Lead us not into temptation.”

May your love bar the way to indifference and self-preoccupation.

May your truth overcome prejudice and racism.

May your mercy bring order to emotional and mental confusion.

May your power bring deliverance from our addictions.

May your Spirit lead us into your light.

“Deliver us from evil.”

Protect us from walling ourselves off from others through fear and greed.

Protect those on the streets from being attacked tonight.

“For yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory.”

Bless this day all who struggle to survive.

We name before you those we know who struggle today:

Bless this day all who have dedicated their lives to bring hope to those who feel marginalized.

We name before you those people and organizations we know who are bearers of hope:

Bless this day all people, pouring into us your kindness and hope.

Give us the courage this day to live the truth we know.

Give us the commitment so to live that all people flourish in your great love.

Now and forever, Amen.