Eyes Open
Mighty God, bless every person who makes the effort to stay informed about politics. It would be easier to look away or to pretend that things are fine. It would be easier both for the residents of the U.S. and for those who seek excessive power. In this context, reading, watching, or listening to legitimate news sources on a regular basis is an act of resistance. Democracy depends upon informed citizens, and faithfulness requires that we acknowledge the suffering of our neighbors. So please bless the news-readers. Give them accurate sources and stamina to read beyond the headlines. Grant them understanding, insight, and wisdom. Allow them rest and respite when well-being requires limits and breaks. And--in among the stories of meanness and strife--gift them with signs of the Spirit at work in our midst. Amen.