INTRODUCTORY REFLECTION
Jesus’ plan to let his apostles rest is thwarted, but he immediately pities the crowds and sets out ‘to teach them at some length.’
Perhaps tired and hungry himself, he has deep inner resources to draw on. Even though being constantly on the move in Mark’s Gospel, we’re told Jesus still went apart to pray (eg 1:35; 6:46).
Finding the right rhythm of activity and prayer for ourselves is a constant challenge. There’s no one-size-fits-all formula, though cultural pressures are more likely to favour activity over prayer.
Our freedom to work purposefully for the kingdom needs to be fed by a healthy mix of personal and communal prayer. Jesus’ advice? Pray always and don’t lose heart (Lk 18:1).
THE WEEK’S PRAYER FOCUS
For all who are called to a life of contemplation and prayer, that they will bless the world with wisdom and love.
SAMPLE INTERCESSIONS
These intercessions are offered for selected use at Sunday Mass in the parish alongside those that express local needs and concerns.
PRESIDER
Dear friends, united and reconciled by the cross of Christ, let us place the world and all its needs in God’s loving hands.
READER
1. We pray for all Christian pastors, that like Christ the good shepherd they will feed their flocks with inspired teaching. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
2. We pray for the peoples of Africa, that in lands ravaged by famine, drought and terror humanitarian aid will keep their bodies and hopes alive. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
3. We pray for all who are deprived of their human rights by military dictatorships or brutal tyrannies, that respected leaders will advocate effectively on their behalf. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
4. We pray for the countless children, women and men still subject to human trafficking, that global initiatives to stop this criminal trade will secure their freedom. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
5. We pray for those kept apart from loved ones because of COVID travel restrictions, especially those who are gravely ill, that the pain of their separation will soon ease. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
6. We pray for a new and healthy appreciation of sexuality in church and society, that loving intimacy may be the norm and all forms of abuse be eliminated. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
7. We pray for farm workers across the land, especially those on temporary visas, that they and their employers will put safe working conditions first. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
8. We pray for parish communities around Australia, that they will treasure the gift of Sun-day Mass and be well nourished at the tables of word and sacrament. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
9. We pray for the recently deceased . . . and for those whose anniversary of death occurs around this time, that they will live in the peace of Christ for ever. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
PRESIDER
God of mercy, you sent your Son to teach and save us. May we feed those who hunger for your love. We ask this through Christ our Lord.