Heavenly Father,

Today we lift before You the precious children whose hearts ache because a parent is behind bars. You know the empty chair at the dinner table, the missed birthdays, the unanswered questions, and the quiet tears shed. You know the weight they carry—feelings of abandonment, confusion, fear, and longing for the embrace of a mother or father.

Lord, when they wonder if they have been forgotten, remind them that You know them by name. When they feel alone, draw near to them. When they cry out for a parent's love, surround them with Your perfect love that never leaves and never fails.

You are the Father to the fatherless and the One whose arms are always open. While earthly parents may be separated by walls and locked doors, nothing

can separate these children from Your presence.

We also ask that these children have caring adults in their lives—grandparents, relatives, teachers, pastors, mentors, and friends—who will reflect Your compassion.

Father, protect these children from believing the lie that they are defined by the choices of others. Instead, let them find their identity as Your beloved sons and daughters. Give them courage for today, hope for tomorrow, and the assurance that no prison wall can keep Your love from reaching them.

May they always know that even when the world feels uncertain, they have a Heavenly Father who delights in them, walks beside them, and will never leave them nor forsake them.

In the loving name of Jesus Christ, we pray.

Amen.

Year of Prayer