Heavenly father, shield of the weak and comfort to the weary, let us not be discouraged when the world seems troubling, but help us to find solace and encouragement in your presence and goodness, through Jesus our savior, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit in perfect joy, world without end. Amen.
‘Who is left among you who saw this house in its former glory? How does it look to you now? Is it not in your sight as nothing? Yet now take courage, O Zerubbabel, says the LORD; take courage, O Joshua, son of Jehozadak, the high priest; take courage, all you people of the land, says the LORD; work, for I am with you, says the LORD of hosts.’ – Haggai 2:3-4