"Let us draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 4:16 (ESV)
Father, as we consider this deeply sensitive and sad issue may we hold Your grace and truth close to our hearts. We pray for vulnerable people facing the prospect of pain and fear of death and dying. May everyone in need receive comfort and support through the gift of medical skill and the ministry of those who care. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
1. Kim Leadbeater’s Terminally Ill (End of Life) Bill
“Our God, will you not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast army that is against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on You.” 2 Chronicles 20:12 (NIV)
Lord of justice, we intercede for MPs during Friday 29 November’s crucial 2nd Reading debate. Please reveal this Bill’s flawed promises of ‘safety, choice and protection’, potential to pressurise people to agree to PAS and not be a burden, and the danger of ‘a slippery slope’ towards full-blown euthanasia. Even though it is predicted to pass, we ask that this Bill will be voted out. For Jesus' sake, Amen.
2. Pray for countries where euthanasia is legal
"I have given you the choice between life and death…Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live!" Deuteronomy 30:19 (NLT)
Eternal Father, we intercede for tragic situations in Belgium, Canada, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Spain, Switzerland and parts of the United States where assisted suicide was made legal but the criteria is now expanded to include vulnerable people who are depressed, disabled and even just homeless. In Your mercy. Amen.
3. For public and political opinions to change
"Those who trust their own insight are foolish, but anyone who walks in wisdom is safe." Proverbs 28:26 (NLT)
Sovereign God, as political and public debate becomes more intense, please raise up respected medical and other experts to bring strong arguments that expose the dangers of permitting assisted suicide, persuade the professional Colleges to maintain their stance against it and encourage more people to contact their MP. In Christ’s name. Amen.
4. Vulnerable people
“For He will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help. He will take pity on the weak and the needy and save the needy from death.” Psalm 72:12,13 (NIV)
Father, we pray that in this ongoing debate, there will arise greater advocacy and moral support for individuals with life-limiting and terminal conditions as well as adults and children with serious disabilities who may feel under pressure to end their lives. May they be increasingly heard, appreciated and supported by us all. In Your mercy. Amen.
Despite woeful underfunding and neglect, broken Britain still has the best palliative care services in the world. So let’s prioritise that, rather than state-sanctioned killing of the most vulnerable in our communities.
5. Hospice and Palliative care
"Let the favour of the Lord our God be upon us and establish the work of our hands upon us; yes, establish the work of our hands!" Psalm 90:17 (ESV)
Lord, in a climate of financial restraint and growing demands on the NHS please provide the finances, staff and volunteers to keep UK hospices going; offering individual holistic care for those nearing the end of life in a peaceful, compassionate atmosphere. We intercede for palliative care to be available for all who need it. For Jesus’ sake. Amen.
6. Medical professionals and others caring for terminally ill patients
"Now may the God of peace…equip you with everything good for doing His will, and may He work in us what is pleasing to Him." Hebrews 13:20-21 (NIV)
Loving God, thank You for the dedication and skills of those working in palliative medicine, therapy, respite care, bereavement support and other services for patients and families. Please bless them as they work in hospital wards, care homes for elderly people, hospices, and patients’ homes. Grant Your presence and peace. By Your grace. Amen.
7. Peace for those near the end of their lives
"Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." Psalm 23:4 (NIV)
Holy Spirit, please draw near to those who are dying. Grant that they may experience Your kindling of desire in their hearts to make their peace with You and receive Your forgiveness and love. We especially ask You to comfort and relieve suffering of body, mind, heart and spirit. In the name of Jesus our Saviour. Amen.
