A Prayer in a Time of Separation

God of hope;
hear our prayer for ______.
You know the joy with which they began their marriage,
and the love they had for each other.
You’ve seen that bright time change and gradually fade.
You know the challenges, the fights,
the slow erosion of respect,
and now the crisis of infidelity.
A marriage where only one partner wants to be in it
isn’t a partnership at all.
________ is at the place where they  can’t see a way forward
and they are headed towards separation.
You are with them in this bleak place;
they are burdened with a sense of failure,
and a feeling that people will judge them.
Thank you that you have counted every tear,
and heard every cry in this break up.
You understand the fears they have for the future,
the unknowns of dividing a household,
and how it will work financially.
Thank you that you are a God of second chances.
We trust that you plan a future filled with good things for them.
This week, be with them as they talk to the kids about what is happening.
Protect their kids from harm,
and give both parents self-control to not speak ill of each other,
and to always work for the best interests of the kids.   
Help _________ as they start to look for another place to live.
Help them find accommodation they can afford in the same school district.
Be with their partner ________, guide their steps,
help them both make wise choices.
Help our church community to surround them with love, care
and practical help during this time of transition.
We ask all this in the name of Jesus, Amen.