In this time of stress, anxiety and heartbreak, there are those whose courage and strength give us hope. Medical professionals, first responders, police, and so many more work everyday to restore safety and health to the people. And there are some who work behind the scenes to provide essential goods that keep our world functioning – those who work in factories. These are jobs that require strong bodies and endurance, a tolerance for long hours and sometimes solitude. Each day, they are asked to continue to work, providing, producing, and building. We pray for their overall health and wellbeing and give thanks for the work of their hands and hearts.
Psalm 90:17
May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us;
establish the work of our hands for us—
yes, establish the work of our hands.
Let us pray
Holy One, you guide our hands as we labor, as we work to build, create, and produce. We give thanks for the gift of strong bodies and astute minds that allow us to accomplish many great things. We give thanks for those who are working in factories even as Covid-19 threatens the health and well-being of so many, for all those making masks, ventilators, and other essential things that we use every day. Lord, we pray that you surround them, the shadow of your protection guard them and their families from all harm as they work. Give to them assurance of income and provide for them all the resources, strength, and support that they need. Gracious God, you bless all of us in so many different ways. Shower all of your children working in factories with your blessing and love as we work through this challenging time. All this, in your holy name we pray. Amen.
Sarah Swindall, Pastoral Intern
April 6, 2020