What good is it, my brothers, if someone claims to have faith, but has no deeds? Can such faith save him? Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you tells him, “Go in peace; stay warm and well fed,” but does not provide for his physical needs, what good is that? So too, faith by itself, if it is not complemented by action, is dead. — James 2:14-17

As I declare with my voice that Jesus Christ is Lord, let my actions equally speak this truth. Father in Heaven, open my eyes to the need that surrounds me every day.There are so many people suffering around me. When I see people in need, fill my heart with your spirit and help me pour out my love for you into them.

I know that meeting a physical need is an opportunity to share your truth and love with someone who doesn’t know you. Each day, give me the strength to deny myself, take up my cross and follow you. I know that deeds alone cannot save me — they must be an outward expression of my love for you and my commitment to follow you.

Please grow my desire to help those who society views as hopeless — the addicted, the incarcerated, the homeless. Let my thoughts, my actions, and my character reflect you in all that I do. It is only through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ that I can come to you and offer this prayer, and it is in His name I pray.

Amen.

Cindy Cipoletti Executive director The Lighthouse Foundation ButlerReligious and civic leaders composed original prayers for Seek God for Butler, a recently published booklet of prayers focused on our community’s spiritual concerns. The Butler Eagle publishes a prayer from the booklet every Monday.