Sometimes the weight of the world feels overwhelming. When we think of wars that destroy lives, people living without basic daily needs, violence that disregards our common humanity, disasters that wipe away homes, and illnesses that steal away those we love, it can feel cumbersome and heavy. In moments like these, it is essential to remember that God does not ask us to hold everything ourselves. Below, I have shared a prayer asking God to give us eyes to see what is ours to do and the wisdom to release what only God can carry. I invite you to pray this prayer with me this week and any time that the weight of the world presses in.
O Gracious and Loving God,
Sometimes the weight of the world presses down on us.
Wars we cannot end, and violence we cannot stop.
Sorrows we cannot heal, and burdens too great for our arms to carry.
Give us eyes to see, Lord, what is ours to do today.
Show us the small kindnesses we can offer and the quiet prayers we can whisper.
Show us the faithful steps we can take to magnify your love.
Give us wisdom to release what belongs to you alone to hold.
The brokenness beyond our reach and the wounds that seem too deep for our mending.
Help us trust the unseen work you do in our lives and in our world.
Teach us to rest in your presence and not in our own striving.
Teach us to labor with open hands and trust that you are God.
May we remember that your love is stronger than all that weighs us down.
Carry us when we falter and calm us when fear rises.
Remind us once again that while the world is heavy,
It is always held in your hands.
Through Christ, who bears the burdens of all, Amen.