Prayer on the Coming of the Son of Man

 *** Der deutsche Originaltext steht gleich unter dieser englischen Übersetzung.

This prayer on Luke 21, 25-31 was written by Holger again and translated by Hugh.  We would have spoke these words together at Berlin Cathedral at Evensong which has been cancelled since Good Week this year. We all miss it and are grateful that we have the prayer at least. I say at least, but to have prayer, to be able to pray is one of the greatest gifts of faith.

The Coming of the Son of Man
Jesus said: “There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea. People will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken. At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” He told them this parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees. When they sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and know that summer is near. Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near.” (Lk.21,25-31)

We pray: God, tender liveliness, in our lives many disturbing things happen, twists of fate, constraints and unavoidable things that shake us back and forth. And it is not unusual for us to lose our sense of direction and to forget that you have called us to be human. We ask you, bind us to your presence, that as life follows its course we do not lose our trust in you but that we may lift up our heads to manage our lives with greater responsibility. For you have called us to your kingdom as human beings.

God, tender liveliness, in our society so much can go haywire – previously held ideas and values change such that we look to the future with uncertainty and do not know where everything will lead. So too the coexistence of people shows signs of breaking down more. We ask you, bind us to your presence, so that in the turmoil of development we do not lose sight of our fellow human beings but respect the dignity of each individual. For you have called us to your kingdom as human beings.

God, tender liveliness, there are so many disagreements between peoples that often only the force of arms appears as a way out of things. Ideologies and hatred twist people's faces, and time and again individuals are made scapegoats, persecuted and sacrificed.  We think in particular of the people of Syria and Iraq, Israel/Palestine and Azerbaijan and Armenia. We ask you, bind us to your presence, that we learn more and more to put aside every form of violence. Open our eyes so that we understand the way exclusion and selfishness work and seek new ways towards peace and reconciliation. For you have called us to your kingdom as human beings.

Everything that moves us or burdens our hearts we bring before you, God, in silent prayer.