Lord of Light, Rule Our Hearts
A Prayer for Epiphany and the Healing of Our Nation
Inspired by Dr. Stanley Hauerwas’ book, Prayers Plainly Spoken, I lift to you the following prayer for the day of Epiphany, and in sorrow and with the hope of Christ as we remember the events of January 6, 2021.
Lord of Light and Truth,
On this day of Epiphany, we recall how your light shone bright in the darkness, guiding magi who traveled afar to behold your Son. Yet, we confess how easily we turn away from your light, choosing instead the shadows of pride, fear, and division.
We remember with sorrow the events of January 6, 2021—how anger and lies overtook wisdom, how violence profaned a space meant for deliberation, and how power was sought rather than justice. In our attempts to claim righteousness, we betrayed your peace.
As our nation certifies the results of this election, teach us to see such acts for what they are—imperfect human efforts to order our common life, not a substitute for your sovereign rule. Deliver us from the idolatry of politics, that we may neither despair nor place our ultimate hope in leaders, laws, or power.
Give those entrusted with authority the courage to seek truth. Give them the humility to acknowledge error. Guide them with the wisdom to serve the common good. And give us, as citizens, the grace to hold them accountable with integrity and mercy.
May we never forget that your kingdom is not of this world, yet your love demands that we labor here for justice, peace, and truth. Help us, Lord, to be a people of light who expose and heal the wounds of darkness. Teach us to laugh at our pretensions so that our politics might reflect your humanity.
Free us from the desire to dominate, that we may be ruled by your love alone.
In the name of Christ, whose reign is eternal, Amen.
