Lord Jesus; You who were separated from Your Father on the cross, and who see and feel the pain of families separated by persecution, have mercy on them we pray. May You who are Father to all believers, bring Your comfort and peace in place of separation.

This week, please:

• Pray today for families separated by persecution who are forced to live apart. Pray for comfort and peace and that God would provide a way for them to be reunited.
• Lift to God all who are separated from their families because of choosing to make a stand for justice and truth, especially those who are in prison. Ask God to be with them wherever they are. Pray that they might be able to communicate despite the physical barriers that exist between them.
• Pray for the safety of family members left behind by those fleeing persecution. Pray for their protection and that they would not become a target themselves. Pray for understanding and reconciliation.
• Pray for those families that find themselves in financial hardship because of the loss of income caused by the disappearance or arrest of a spouse or parent.
• Pray for the children of families that are separated because of persecution. Pray for their emotional and mental health in the face of loss and trauma.
• Pray that the Church would be a truly global family to all who are separated because of persecution, that they would find the love and support they need to sustain them, and that the UK church would play it’s part in providing support and solidarity.