“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” —Matthew 11:28
Merciful God, there are those in our midst who carry heavy burdens. Help us to be sensitive to their needs, reaching out to them with your love and compassion. Help us also to encourage those who are especially burdened to turn to our pastors and Stephen Leaders who can help them receive the one-on-one care they need. In your name we pray. Amen
Dear Lord, help those who are hurting, and to whom you are extending the offer of care through a Stephen Minister, realize that care receivers are an essential part of Stephen Ministry. You called Stephen Ministers to bring your compassionate care to those who are burdened. Help those who are hurting understand that without their willingness to become care receivers, Stephen Ministers cannot fully answer your call. In your name we pray. Amen.
Dear God, in the midst of everyday troubles we can sometimes lose sight of the promise of our salvation in you. Be with our Stephen Ministers this week as they walk beside their care receivers helping them to rely on your promises and to turn back to you for strength. Renew them in the hope of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.