Who to Pray for in Self-Isolation

One significant way we can fight Coronavirus is by regularly washing our hands for 20 seconds multiple times a day. This is roughly how long it takes to sing happy birthday twice over.

Offering a change from singing happy birthday as well as small opportunities for prayer, here’s a selection of 20-second prayers for every time you wash your hands.

A short prayer for yourself

Lord, give me the gift of hope, that I can then pass that on to those around me who struggle to see your light. May I use this time not to despair, but to see more of you. And that my heart will be open to the opportunities which come before me. Amen.

A short prayer for those who are with you self-isolation

Lord, grant those who live with me the patience and grace to live well in self-isolation. When the toilet seat is left up, or the washing up hasn’t been done, or when we just need a moment’s peace on our own, grant us patience to do everything with kindness. Amen.

A short prayer for your neighbours

Lord, help this neighbourhood become a community. That the only things separating us are 2 metres and fences. And that those who live around me will see the hope that comes from you. I pray that next doors, and their next doors, and their next doors also will come to know the peace that is found in you. Amen.

A short prayer for your family

Lord, be with my family where I cannot. From the furthest cousin to the nearest brother, may your presence be felt and may they know a measure of hope throughout self-isolation. I pray you watch over them, keep them, and may your kingdom come in their lives. Amen.

A short prayer for your Church

Lord, remind us that your Church is not the body, but the people. Though we can’t meet in person, we can meet in spirit. I pray that we remain as united and passionate for you as when we first met, as when your Church first gathered in the book of Acts. May we keep our eyes on you, and each other in our hearts. Amen.

A short prayer for your Church Leader

Lord, I pray for [your Church leader]. That in this time of separation, they will find new ways to be a shepherd to your people. More than that, I pray they find rest and peace in this time. That the challenge of caring for a Church who cannot meet is no more than they can handle. That your strength is with them throughout. Amen.

A short prayer for emergency workers and first-line responders

Lord, I pray for those who are on the front line, saving lives. For every nurse, doctor, paramedic, healthcare expert, researcher, clinician and physician. That they are protected, that you give them strength and energy, but also true rest. Thank you that so many people have desiccated their lives to the wellbeing of people. And thank you for the NHS. Amen.

For more prayer ideas, 5 Things to Pray in a Global Crisis is a timely and accessible guide. You'll find prayers that are clear and powerful.

Return to the list of practices for Christians during Coronavirus: https://www.eden.co.uk/blog/7-practices-for-christians-during-coronavirus-p1784105