From The Vigil of Easter

I had fallen into a slump, so I attended two church services over Easter. Doing so enabled me to pull myself from the doldrums, into which I had fallen. These paragraphs helped, and I hope they help others.

Father God:

God of the church, you light the new fire of resurrection in the holy darkness of the tomb. Kindle faith in our hearts, that your church may arise in the promise of new life and hope. God of grace, hear our prayer.

God of creation, the earth itself waits for healing and redemption. Protect coastlines and reefs, forests and prairies, and the air from which we draw the breath of life. God of grace, hear our prayer.

God of nations, too often the injustice of the cross echoes in the human systems of power. Topple the thrones of tyrants, liberate your people from the bonds of injustice, and create a world rooted in compassion, that together, all of humanity might thrive. God of grace, hear our prayer.

God of mercy, you know every heart that aches with loss and every mind that knows the weight of the tomb. Keep vigil with those that suffer; comfort those who weep, console all who grieve, and bring healing to all who suffer in body, mind, or spirit. God of grace, hear our prayer.

Receive these prayers, loving God, for the sake of the One who loved us to the end, Jesus Christ, our Redeemer. Amen

This was written by Rev. Micah Sievenpiper, Immanuel Lutheran Church, Kansas City MO                     April 19, 2025