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Labor Day and gratitude for those who labor 
Dear Friends, 

Prayer does not change God, but it changes him who prays. Soren Kierkegaard

This week-end marks the celebration of Labor Day, a day where we remember that our lives depend on the work of others and more importantly that workers in the US have not always enjoyed fair wages, safe working conditions and basic health & retirement benefits. At St. Stephen’s we are also celebrating that so many have served so well, and especially in these last period following the shooting of Michael Brown. 

There is always a danger in reading current events through the eyes of our ideologies. This is why I find myself asking again and again, does saying what I am about to say and doing what I am about to do have any biblical support? Is the behavior or thought Christian? The simple question, "What would Jesus do?" is also a very helpful one. 

In sync with this, Jesus unwavering focus on those who benefit least from our societal order is a constant point of challenge to my common habits of thought and behavior. This period has Jesus focus increasingly clear and uncomfortable. Again and still, I am reminded that conversion is an ongoing process.

In working on shaping thoughts and behaviors, I turn to the Book of Common Prayer as a rich source for direction as I pray its prayers. In the Episcopal way of following Jesus, we often say, praying shapes believing. The things we pray regularly become the things we believe.
 
In line with that, and given our current context, I commend these prayers to you in this time: 

For the Unemployed (page 824) 
Heavenly Father, we remember before you those who suffer
want and anxiety from lack of work. Guide the people of this
land so to use our public and private wealth that all may find
suitable and fulfilling employment, and receive just payment
for their labor; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

And 

 For the Oppressed (page 826)
Look with pity, O heavenly Father, upon the people in this
land and every land who live with injustice, terror, disease, and death as
their constant companions. Have mercy upon us. Help us to
eliminate our cruelty to these our neighbors. Strengthen those
who spend their lives establishing equal protection of the law
and equal opportunities for all. And grant that every one of
us may enjoy a fair portion of the riches of this land; through
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

I send this with my gratitude.

Blessings and peace, 

Father Steve+ 

 
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