Saturday Prayer

Holy One,
as this new year begins
we are moving slowly into
something that is
even less familiar
than any other new year
in our lifetimes

A pandemic is still
hovering over us
and we have no idea
when it will end
or how many
will be affected by it

But one thing we do know
is that you are with us
and we can turn to you
every day
seeking – not answers –
but comfort

We pray that
the vaccine will be effective
and – even more –
that it will be distributed
to all who want it
and all who need it

We thank you
for the researchers
who are still working
to discover even better
vaccines and treatments
which will help us all

We ask that
through it all
we remember that
you are the Great Healer
and that we need to place
our trust in you as well

Grant, Lord, that
as we move slowly
and hesitantly
through these early days
we keep our eye fixed on you
as so many others did

As the Magi kept their eyes
fixed on the Star
and Moses kept his eyes
fixed on the pillar of fire
so let us do the same
and thus find our way
Amen

Bio: The Reverend Doctor Katherine Burgess, a second-career minister, serves two congregations in the province of Québec, Canada. Right now, she is leading worship on-line because the area in which she lives has been moved to a Red Zone. She lives with her husband, Keith, a dog named Bella, and a cat named OhchoCat. She shares daily prayers on her Facebook page. She also has a blog, but rarely manages to post anything in it.