Friday, March 25, 2016

A prayer for united hearts - and people (after the Brussels bombing and other violent attacks) - March 25, 2016

Eternal One,
We have again witnessed
More than once in recent days,
A deliberate attempt to sow chaos
Through murder based in an ideology
That craves power
and commits acts of murder and destruction
in Your name.
There are many, many people
Who believe in You
Who don’t seek the disorder and conflict
Which could shape the world with one particular belief
As acceptable
While others are “tolerated” or begrudged their very existence.
Many people who call on You as a gracious, compassionate and merciful
Creator, Healer, Comforter, teacher and guide
See you as a beacon of light
Against the darkness of violent attacks
That do no honor to Your name.
Help us, Source of Hope and author of freedom,
To enable people to create on earth
The oneness that You represent for us,
a sense of unity will seep into the hearts
Of every human being
So that even the notion of taking a life in order to foment fear
Would be unthinkable and unimaginable.
Bring us together, in our own community, and all over the world,
So that voices that preach the language of division, prejudice,
And hatred will not prevail.
Lead us to a time and place
When and where the contributions of our minds and hearts
Will engender worldwide respect, understanding and peace
So that who we are will fully reflect who You are.
V’yached l’vaveinu l’ahavah u-l’yir’ah et sh’mecha.
Unite our hearts – the hearts of all - to love and revere Your name.
Amen.

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