Ruler of heaven, who wars with the evil that plagues all creation, do not let us be surprised when your ways and your commands produce strife and division, for you have known and warned us that many will oppose and rebel against your reign. Prepare us for the divisiveness that we will face when we carry your banner in this world, through Jesus Christ our Lord who reigns with you and the Holy Spirit in glory. Amen. ‘Do you think that I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division!’ – Luke 12:51