January 9, 2011 is the date for an historic vote in South Sudan. On that date, people from Sudan’s oil-producing south are due to vote in a referendum on whether they should secede and form Africa’s newest nation; a plebiscite promised under a 2005 accord that ended decades of north-south civil war.
Our colleagues in the Sudan Advocacy Action Forum have posted a referendum countdown clock. It is a reminder that the time for the election draws near.
It is also a reminder that it is time to pray:
Gracious God, watch over the people of Sudan as preparations are made for the referendum in South Sudan. Guide the leaders that they may design and implement a vote that is fair and free, transparent and just. Fill the people with wisdom as they make their decisions. Grant grace that they might overcome hatred and anger and wrongs remembered and all that divides them; grace that they might come to view one another as brothers and sisters; grace that they might engage the arduous but glorious task of living together. Break the hold of violence and inspire the people to show compassion to each other, to seek justice, and to pursue peace. Inspire the nations and peoples of the world to act in ways that support and help the people of Sudan. We pray in Jesus' name. Amen.