17^th January 2014

Pray for the Nation

Lord and God of this Great South Land,
today we thank you for
this ancient, harsh but beautiful country.

God of the Outback, God of the Cities.
we thank you for
blessing Australia with
rich resources and prosperity,
for freedom of worship,
sound government and
a quality of life that
enjoys sport and open beaches.

Save us from greed and
the material gods of this age
that leave nations dry,
withered and short of mercy.
Open our hearts to
the disadvantaged and
to those who seek asylum.
Bring justice and compassion.
Help us to bridge the gap between
the indigenous people and
the settlers of this land.

We thank you Lord
for those who came before our time to
pioneer and plant the Christian faith.
Save us from living on the faith of our fathers,
and this generation from drifting
away from you and our national heritage.

Renew the church.
Bless good government and
move our nation towards
the fullness of your Kingdom.
We pray in Jesus name.
Amen.

Australia Day Prayer

Lord our God
today we acknowledge you
as the Great Spirit of this land
that rests under the Southern Cross.
We thank you for
this ancient land with
its unique animals, birds and flowers.

Help us to enjoy not only
its beauty and antiquity
but the potential and
responsibility we share
as a young nation in Asia.

Bless all Australians
serving you here and
in other countries,
especially those standing
with the poor and disadvantaged.

Lord restrain the arrogant
and the evils of secularism and corruption.
Help us to embrace pro-life values,
to cherish our children,
the bond of marriage and to pursue
freedom and fairness for all.

Save the church from compromise.
Empower it by your Spirit
to declare Jesus
as Saviour and Lord.
Renew us with
the courage of the prophets.
Rekindle your holy love in us
so that with a love for you,
for people and our country.
we shine as clear advocates of
justice and peace.
This we pray in Jesus name.
Amen.

Rev Ted (EA) Curnow 2014