40 Days of Prayer - Day 9

He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;

He breaks the bow, and shatters the spear;

He burns the shields with fire,

–Psalm 46:9 (NRSV)

Pray for the most vulnerable children around the world, who are outside of our care, and who may be crying out to God. Pray for children in war-torn countries such as Sudan, Central African Republic and Syria, and for girls who cannot escape the sex trade in many countries. Pray for those facing persecution and death at the hands of violent extremists. Challenge yourself now to join Jesus as He sits at the right hand of the Father and intercedes on their behalf.

The number of refugees, asylum-seekers and internally displaced people worldwide has, for the first time in the post-World War II era, exceeded 50 million people - UNHCR 2014

Father, you can change statistics. They are our human numbers – may we measure our world by your grace and love and mercy and compassion first. By hope before fear. May your word be manifested in our day: wars ceasing, bows breaking, spears shattering. We pray for each child who you know deeply. As Jesus carried their suffering on the cross, may we in some small way share their burden and stand in solidarity with each one who is crying out to you. Bring your mercy, your mighty mercy Father. We boldly ask for your Kingdom to come into the lives of those who are living and yet not knowing if they will be living hour to hour. Thank you for hearing our prayers. Thank you for loving the most vulnerable. As your heart breaks, may ours break too.

We pray this in the mighty name of Jesus, Amen.