Lord, you came to the world healing, touching those considered dangerous, unsafe and unclean. You entered into suffering, never turning away from those in need of mercy.
We think of you, your compassion and kindness, your stalwart love and your selfless courage, because we see these traits in those on the front lines, combating this pandemic.
We see you in the bruised faces of nurses after hours and hours wearing facemasks and tending to the sick.
We see you in the pain of parents unable to hug their own children for fear of infecting them after working shift after shift with contagious patients.
We see you, tired, putting yourself at risk for the sake of strangers.
We see you in gloves and gowns, not knowing when this scourge will end, but bringing healing, comfort and hope despite your own fears and fatigue.
Lord God, bringer of wholeness, giver of peace, strengthen your servants who are putting themselves on the line, pouring themselves out, looking to the interests of others in order to heal the sick and tend to the suffering. Help them to know they are seen and valued, not only by you, but by all of us who are grateful for their sacrifices and awed by their tenacity, commitment, skill and care.
Grant them rest, give them fortitude, guide our collective will, shape all our actions, unite us in upholding one another in this extraordinary time and always. Amen.