God of all creation, our gratitude overflows for a full week. While we worshipped and debated, voted and danced, your presence has undeniably been present.
Even as we discussed issues, we were keenly aware of the people for whom gun violence and climate change and sexual misconduct and racism and mental illness are not issues but every day realities. We marched in the streets to help set the captives free. We rallied in the park to advocate for immigrants. We listened to our siblings share their hearts and their stories. We prayed for and with one another. We ate together. We laughed and cried. We stepped out in faith in the hope that changing our structure, will transform our culture.
We know that our actions will not bring about your kin-dom, but we also know that you take the gifts we offer, bless and use them. Use all our gifts and each of us, dear God, in ways that multiply your mercy, grace and love. Take us safely home to boldly proclaim your word. Amen.
