A time to pray
This morning in the pre-dawn darkness, as I sat down at my computer and glanced through the headlines on my RSS feeds, I found story after story of war and terror in the middle east. As is always the case in war, the worst is being brought out in the soldiers on both sides of the conflicts as they slaughter each other and anyone they perceive as a potential enemy. I am deeply saddened to hear of men who are fighting in our own military murdering and torturing, saddened but no longer surprised.
Rather than engage in a long rant against the government I hold responsible for this horror I have chosen this morning to pray instead.
Lord of the nations, and God of all peace, pour out Your Spirit in rich measure on those in high places and low, who continue to seek peace during this time of war. Protect them from hate and violence, open their ears, their mouths, and their hearts to pursue the goal of peace, and make the citizens they represent responsive to their care; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.O Lord God of Hosts, stretch forth Your almighty hand to strengthen the men and women of our armed forces. Give them wisdom in all things, that they might serve You without stumbling or stain. Keep their families safe and sound during these days of separation. Protect our soldiers in battle, that they might soon return to their homes to serve You in peace and quietness; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.Father of all mercies and God of all comfort, look in pity on all who are suffering during this time of strife and warfare. Protect the defenseless, heal the wounded, and sustain the homeless and hungry. Turn the hearts of our enemies, and forgive both them and us for our share in the sin that has brought this anguish on humanity. Open to us a way of reconciliation, and lead us to the path of peace; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.(Prayers from the
Lutheran Church Missouri Synod web site)