We need to appreciate that in our world people are still hungry and thirsty or have no homes or warm clothing.  Water is a basic necessity for life.  There are approximately 1 billion people in the world today who do not have access to an adequate water supply.  That is about one sixth of the world’s population.    Often the water many of these people have access to is contaminated and consequently many die from the diseases they catch from having a poor water supply.

Our prayer focus this week is to try and bring an end to poverty.
Poverty can disenable a whole community; it can disenable a whole nation.  As we enter into a new financial year help us to renew the focus to be creative in ‘Making Poverty History.’

Prayers:

Mon:   Lord, this is a rich world.  Everyone in it should have enough to live with dignity.  Enough clothing to keep warm.  Enough shelter to give protection.  Enough food to keep from being hungry.  Our world has plenty but it isn’t shared equally.  Help us not to be wasteful or selfish with what we have but always open for another chance to share with another.  Amen.

Tues:    We ask you, Lord, to challenge us, especially when we become too set in our ways.  Inspire us to review our priorities and values, so that our attitude may always be to give generously without counting the cost.  Amen

Wed:    Open our eyes and hearts to all people, and particularly to those who are vulnerable or marginalized or who can do nothing for us in return.  Lead us to act justly, love tenderly, and walk humbly with you, our God.  Amen.

Thurs:   Father, we pray for farmers in poorer countries, that they get a fair price for their crops and earn enough money to invest in seeds and better and more environmentally sound farming techniques so that they and their families can live better lives.  We make this prayer in Jesus name.  Amen.

Fri:     We pray for all the people throughout the country who are trying to help the poor.  We pray that those who lead and guide our country will be committed to brining an end to poverty. We make this prayer through Christ our Lord.  Amen.