Faith & Worship

"Then Esau looked up and saw the women and children. “Who are these with you?” he asked. Jacob answered, “They are the children God has graciously given your servant.” "
(Genesis 33:5)

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Be present Lord, wherever kids
grow up believing that gangs
give them identity, family,
belonging, protection, power,
and find themselves drawn
into an often-dangerous world
that robs them of childhood,
leaves scars difficult to heal.
Bless those called to work
with gang members, sharing
your unconditional love
with both word and lives.
Protect and empower them
as they invite these prodigal sons
and daughters into your family.

 

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Bring light into the dark world
of young people growing up
in a culture of gangs and drugs,
with lives controlled by fear.
Bless those who work within
these streets, befriending,
engaging, breaking chains
enslaving so many children.
Keep them safe, these sowers
of hope for a better future,
working in such barren soil.
May it be watered by your Spirit,
and in due time, produce much fruit.

 

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Be known Lord, in the hearts
of those for whom street gangs
are family, and acts of violence
rites of passage; young people
immune to the consequences
of their actions on another’s life.
Be there Lord, in their midst,
speaking both to heart and mind,
and flush hatred from their lives,
sowing seeds of love and grace
that may, in your good time, flower.