Prayers for Both Sheep and Goats

The Shepherd The Passage usually called The Parable of the Sheep and Goats
is in Matt 25 vs 31 to 46

When The Son of Man comes in Glory He will divide all people into two groups
just as a shepherd divides sheep from goats.

I was in prisonHe commends (and saves) the Sheep because:
I was hungry and you fed me
I was thirsty and you gave me a drink
I was a stranger and you welcomed me
I was naked and you clothed me
I was sick and you took care of me
I was in prison and you visited me

And castigates (even condemns) the Goats for failing to do these things and recognise Him in the needy.

You must decide how literally to take this passage, but it is clear that simply Believing in Jesus without obeying His commandments is  not enough. Here we shall pray for both the Sheep and the Goats.

We begin by thanking God for those who work for the Aid Agencies, often in dangerous and atrocious situations, so that we can make our contribution simply in money. And similarly we give thanks for all charity workers and those in the caring professions. Regardless of their faith or motives Lord, we ask You to Bless and protect them.

Then we confess that most of us are rarely in the Sheep fold and that too often we are Goats. Forgive us, merciful Lord, when we fail to respond to need and rarely see You right there in front of us, represented by a person in need. Help us to see that even if we cannot or will not provide direct practical help ourselves, then we can and should pray for them, not just asking for a blessing but in a real attempt to understand the need and pray the details, that by so doing we may become more understanding and charitable.

Then for those who could be called Sheep, we pray that their work will be blessed, nourished and prospered by the presence of Your Holy Spirit and assisted by the Angels and that each sheep may come to recognise Your presence in their work and feel the touch of Your hand.

And for those who could be called Goats and especially those who claim to worship You, we pray that You will be mercifully patient and guide them into a better understanding of what You require of them. Let no misunderstanding of theirs concerning Salvation by Grace through Faith in Jesus lead them astray. Lord Jesus, do not say: I never knew  you, but rather raise up those who preach the Gospel in all its fullness, so that we all may serve You as we should

Finally Lord God we plead with You to clarify, in these days, our understanding of scripture, and the inspiration of Your Holy Spirit, so that all who claim to follow You can agree to live in unity and Godly love.
Amen
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