God of compassion,
hold the people and the leaders of the Philippines
gently in these last days before the election.
Fill hearts and guide spirits
so that the leaders and people turn from violence.
Grant courage to nurture relationships
that have long existed
so that faint sparks of hope might be fanned into brilliant light.
May they honor, respect, and care for one another.
God of peace,
open the people and the leaders of the Philippines
to new possibilities in their life together.
Provide vision and touch minds
so that the leaders and people break down barriers and pursue new possibilities.
Grant courage to nurture relationships
that cross well-defined lines in surprising ways
so that long-time animosities may be transformed.
May they live together, seeking the well-being of all.
God of justice,
inspire the people and the leaders of the Philippines
to seek food and freedom and jobs for all.
Instill wisdom and give discernment
so that the leaders and people challenge injustice and inequity.
Grant courage to nurture relationships
among all the people, leaders, and institutions
so that together they seek to remake systems in ways that benefit all.
May they live into the justice which you intend and to which we are called.
We pray in Jesus' name. Amen.
Please feel free to use or revise. Revision would be especially important depending on when the prayer is used. If possible, attribute to Mark Koenig, coordinator, Presbyterian Peacemaking Program. If you could let us know you used the prayer, that would be great.