When the nation began to shut down businesses and gathering places, bars and restaurants were the first impacted in this transition. Many workers in the service industry lost their jobs and have been some of the longest affected of our workforce. Today, we give thanks for the hard work they do offer, their smiling faces and kindness, even in high-stress situations. We offer a prayer for all in the service industry, for their needs to be met, support to be given, and for an end to the pandemic that has affected so many.
Luke 22:27
For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who is at the table? But I am among you as one who serves.
Let us pray,
Spirit of Justice, you lift up all who work for others and praise those who serve. In your power and glory, you came to this earth not in a status of greatness, but in an attitude of service. You challenge the status quo and flip our expectations. You are the host at the celebration, blessing the meal and making sure that we each have a seat at the table. Gracious one, we offer thanks for those who work in the service industry: bartenders, hosts, servers, baristas, and bussers. We acknowledge and respect the work that they do working with people and in challenging, high-stress environments. Lord, as the coronavirus pandemic continues to shape our realities, continue to provide for these workers as their jobs change, look different, or some even lose their jobs. Bless them and care for them, and tend to their spirits with a presence of comfort and peace during this time of economic insecurity. Amen.
Sarah Swindall, Pastoral Intern