As I follow the news these days
I can't help but think:
     If we ever needed you before, Lord, 
        - we sure do need you now!

We need you in our hearts, Lord,
when we're anxious, unsure and afraid
- and right now that's a good deal of the time...

We need you in our minds, Lord,
when we're confused by what we read and hear,
when we're not sure what to think or believe
- and therefore not sure what to do...

We need you in our imagination, Lord,
when we awfulize the future:
   help us keep it in today 
   and find the hope we need to carry on...

When past expectations fail us, Lord,
   we need you to help us reach out again,
   in faith, with confidence and trust... 

We need you in our communities and homes, Lord,
to keep us faithful to safe practices...

We need you to help us keep a social distance
when we so desire the embrace, the touch of others... 

We need you in our neighborhoods
as we reach out to those who are alone and frail...

We need you in our laboratories
to inspire researchers working on a vaccine...

We need you in our hospitals
to support those who selflessly care for the sick...

We need you in our faith communities
while we long to return to our sanctuaries...

We need you in our government 
to lead and guide our civic leaders...

We need you everywhere, Lord,
in every way, at every turn,
at every hour of every day and night...

If we ever needed you before, Lord, 
        - we sure do need you now!

Amen.