Heavenly Father,
We call out to you in these worrying times of civil unrest.
Amid scenes of rioting, violence and destruction, we pray for everyone who feels threatened and intimidated, fearful and unwelcome.
Lord embrace and protect, encourage and comfort, deliver and sustain.

We pray for all who feel left behind and ignored, for those who have genuine concerns and grievances.
We pray for the spaces and leadership to enable difficult and honest conversations about poverty, housing, immigration, race and religion.

O Lord, we ask for peace, restored relationships and renewed hope;
For immediate calm and long-term resolutions.
Move us from chaos to order, lies to truth, hate to love.

We pray for community leaders, police officers and politicians – grant them wisdom, grace and favour.
We pray for local church ministers, street pastors and chaplains – may they embody your love, life and hope.
We pray for Jesus-followers in every walk of life – make them conduits of your very presence, your words of life and acts of kindness.

Lord give us;
Eyes to see each other in your image.
Hearts which break and beat with yours.
And streets which more closely reflect our heavenly city.

In the name of Jesus Christ our Lord,
Amen.