Our Father...

Dear God,

You created us and our world. You are in charge. Everything is under your control. No one can tell you what to do.

All the same, you want to know what we think. You listen to what we have to say. Help us to meet with you now and speak with you. Show us how to be open and honest, humble but also confident. In Jesus, you became a person – you know what it's like to be a human being. You have felt the fear and doubt, joy and pain first-hand. You understand.

We can truly be ourselves with you. Thank you.

Teach us how to pray. So often we don't know what to ask for. More than anything, though, we want your kingdom to come. Show us how to spread your wisdom, love and beauty in what we say and do throughout our daily lives. When the time is right, show your power and glory and make all things new. We look forward to that day, knowing that you do everything you promise and you will finish everything that you have begun. Your love lasts forever.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the support you give us in different ways and at different times. Thank you for your church, for family, friends, colleagues and neighbours, for food and warmth, for strength and comfort. Give us each day what we need to keep going.

We're sorry for the things we've done that we shouldn't have and the things that we should have done that we haven't. Forgive us. In turn, we forgive those that have done wrong to us. Help us to heal the rifts and break down the barriers that we have created between ourselves and those around us.

We try our best but you know our weaknesses. Protect us from situations that will be too difficult for us.

Teach us how to build our lives on you, so that we can be stronger, wiser and more loving. We are your people and we are glad.

So be it.