The U.S. continues to have children without their parents or legal guardians showing up at our southern border. Many of them sent by their parents in a “Moses in a basket” decision to give their children the best option they feel towards safety from war, violence, and danger.
Will you pause for 2 minutes and pray with us?
Lord, we join together in prayer for these boys and girls and their parents we don’t know personally. We understand they are seeking a safe place to call home, and we trust that you know every child and family’s story. You know every detail that led to their arrival at the border. You know their hearts, dreams, hopes, and fears.
For the children who enter alone, Lord, we ask that you keep them safe. Please protect them in every facility they enter, shelter where they rest, and family home where they are sent. May they experience your presence, God, and may they suffer no harm.
Be close to their hearts along the way, Lord. Calm their fears. Help them to navigate an unfamiliar system, language, and country. Grant them peace. May their most basic of needs be met, and may they catch glimpses of your love in their life along the way. May they find refuge in you and be glad (Psalm 5:11).
For the agents and officials at the border, we pray for strength, compassion, and wisdom. Help them to distinguish safe from unsafe situations, and help them to support the welfare of children to the best of their abilities. May they respond to your voice as they care for those made in your image.
God, these issues often feel too big for us. And in many ways, they are. But we know they are not too big for you. Thank you that you know and love each and every child at the border and beyond. Help us to know how to respond. Together, in your name, we pray. Amen.