Photo Courtesy of Water's Edge UMC
Mexican Worker
A Mexican migrant worker picks tomatoes.
These are uncertain times for so many immigrants in our communities, churches, and homes. The United Methodist Church's resolution #3281 "Welcoming the Migrant to the United States" offers opportunities and ideas for study and action. Let us join in prayer, for we all are in need of hope and reassurance.
O God we call upon you as a people wandering in search of better homeland
You call us to be welcoming of those who cross borders, seas, rivers, deserts, highways, and mountains escaping poverty, persecution, violence and war.
Like your disciples, we worry that there is not enough food and we do not see your face. We too are filled with fear. We grow anxious and distant from ourselves and from you. We stand confused and frozen. In the midst of doubt and fear, You draw near pouring out your love and compassion on us.
We remember and are comforted knowing
you multiplied the loaves and fishes,
you provided more than food for the body,
you offered the gift of Yourself,
the gift which satisfies every hunger and quenches every thirst!
Jesus, help us by your grace,
To banish fear from our hearts;
To embrace each of your children as our own brother and sister;
To welcome migrants and refugees with joy and generosity;
To know that you call all people to learn the ways of peace and justice;
To share of our abundance as you spread a banquet before us;
To give witness to your love for all people, as we delight in the many gifts we bring.
We praise you and give you thanks for the family you have called together from the ends of the earth. We see in your human family a reflection of the divine unity of the one Most Holy Trinity in whom we make our prayer: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Amen.
(Inspired by and adapted from a prayer of the Conference of Catholic Bishops)
Peace,
Susan Henry-Crowe