9th April

Going a little further he said to them,’My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me’. Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, ‘My father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will’. Matthew 26:38-39

Lord Jesus,

In the garden of Gethsemane you faced the devil’s last and greatest temptation: to take the easy way out.

But that was not the Father’s will.

Help us to listen to your quiet, insistent voice during this Easter like no other. Lead us away from the self determination which claims - my home - my job - my money - my life.

Please give us the courage to leave what we know behind, take up our cross and follow you to the empty tomb and the glory of the resurrection.

We pray especially for:

Health care professionals who have left their specialities to work with COVID-19 patients - confidence and courage: protection for themselves and their families.

Our Prime minister, Boris Johnson, complete healing with no relapses and time to recover.

We love you Lord,

Amen