Pause
Jesus, my brother, you know what it is like to be part of a family. You lived with Mary and Joseph through both joy and pain. Be with me now as I lift up my heart full of praise and petition in this prayer for my family.
Ask
God of love, bless the members of my family in all their strengths and weaknesses. Pour out your spirit upon us all so that your peace and charity may guide the way we serve and speak to one another. In the time you have given us together, may we do all things for your greater glory.
Listen
You call us to love one another as you have loved us (John 13:34). Each day in a family gives us a chance to answer this call. If there has been a time when I could have loved a family member better, reveal it to me now. If there has been a time when a family member did not love me well, give me the grace to forgive them.
Share
So many families are struggling, God. You see all of their pain: separation, illness, financial stress, and misunderstanding. May your love heal these wounds. By your grace, help me bring this healing love to the members of my own family.
Reflect
God, you make us your sons and daughters (Romans 8:14) and prepare a place for us in your heavenly home (John 14:3). May our families reveal the beauty of self-sacrifice and the wonder of new life in Christ to all the world. Amen.
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