So many voices trumpet their greatness,

so many images boast of their beauty,

flaunt their power,

squander their wealth;

and all too many of them do so in your name, Jesus.

 

And here we are in a world which is daily broken

by the foolish arrogance

of men and women just like us;

And so we pray for the healing of humility

to flood every corner of our world:

wherever there is exploitation

and God-imaged people are dehumanised;

wherever there is neglect

and the needs of the poorest are ignored;

wherever there is disdain,

and the sacred value of creatures and earth are denied;

wherever there is violence,

and the gifts of difference and dignity are rejected.

 

Wherever people are tempted to think of themselves

as better than others,

more worthy, more deserving, more important to you,

may your humility break in and challenge us,

reminding us of our brokenness and need,

and teaching us to serve and to love everyone

with the grace and humility you show toward us.

 

Amen.