Grant, O God, that your holy and life-giving Spirit may move every human heart, that the barriers which divide us may crumble, suspicions disappear, and hatreds cease, and that, with our divisions healed, we might live in justice and peace; through your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord. Lutheran Book of Worship, 1978
I am reading through Genesis and listening to a Bible study podcast on the book as part of my new year’s goals. The podcast recently talked about how God created man in his own image. I have always loved how God created us in a much more hands on way than He did for the rest of creation. It makes me think that God loves mankind in a special way. Then, He called us “very good” rather than “good.” Since we are created in God’s image, we can show our love for God by treating His creation with love especially His most loved creation, mankind.
Unity is on my mind because this country, USA, feels very divided right now. I encourage everyone to remember that the opposing party is not evil. Both parties have honest, hard working Christians in them. We just disagree on what is best for the country. The media shares the most extreme views of both parties.
Here is another prayer from the same book about the diversity of the human race.
O God, you created all people in your image. We thank you for the astonishing variety of races and cultures in this world. Enrich our lives by ever-widening circles of fellowship, and show us your presence in those who differ most from us, until our knowledge of your love is made perfect in our love for all your children; through your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord. Lutheran Book of Worship 1978