Almighty and everlasting God,
as we recall the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem,
and our world groans with conflict and pain,
we rejoice in the veiled genius of your kingdom:
not established by violence or threat
but through humility, mercy, and love.
You scatter the proud
and lift up the lowly.
now plant within us the song of Mary,
that we may celebrate your justice,
walk the path of peace,
and trust your faithfulness.
God who feels our sorrow,
as the crowd once cried “Hosanna!”
we pledge our allegiance once more
to Christ our Servant King.
Save us from shallow praise
that welcomes with palms and words
but resists the way of peace.
Teach us to receive the One
who comes near in gentleness, compassion, and love,
whose throne is a cross
and whose crown is grace upon grace
poured out for the life of the world.
God who models mercy,
cast down every tyranny that stands against your purposes;
grant the hungry all they need;
defend the poor and the sidelined;
enable forgiveness and reconciliation;
and bend the will of nations toward peace.
Give your Church courage to embody your kingdom:
to seek revolution without violence,
justice without vengeance,
and peace that endures.
Where we divide, make us instruments of grace.
Where fear takes hold, make us bearers of hope.
God who walked among us,
as we step from the streets of Jerusalem
into the shadow and shame of the cross,
renew our restless hearts in faith.
May we share in your self-giving love,
and so participate in the renewal of the cosmos,
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
in whose holy name we pray.
Amen.
Copyright © 2026 Rod Benson. Permission is granted for non-commercial use of this prayer with attribution.
Rev Dr Rod Benson is General Secretary of the NSW Ecumenical Council and a minister of the Uniting Church in Australia serving at North Rocks Community Church in Sydney.
Image source: Adobe stock
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