Friday, April 19, 2013

Dearest God,

Teach us the way of peace.  Show us how to work with each other honoring our differences.  Remind us our way is not the only way.  Reveal to us the means of compromise.

So often we believe our reality is the acceptable way but we forget the world is ever changing.  We forget every day is new with other possibilities.  We forget the injustices.  We forget people around us have their own thoughts.  So much can we learn from one another.

When our world is shaken by great tragedies like the one in Boston, I wait to hear your word.  Do I become incensed?  Do I blame and judge?  Do I cry out "crucify"?  Do I try to learn from the horror?  Do I attempt to reflect upon the minds of those charged with the misdeeds?  Do I imagine how I can help change the world by being more tolerant?

So much pain and sorrow is inflicted upon helpless people.  So many in Boston continue to suffer.  Many will run out to buy guns thinking they will be safe.  It seems to me shifting our thoughts, making room for differing opinions, considering the paralysis so many people live under, and learning to love one another could help ease the tension we all live with in this ever-changing world.

As I pray for all those hurt by this horrible incident, I remember once again the plight of those in other parts of the globe who live with fear every day and I pray for them as well.  I must remember we are all part of the human planet that we all call home.  Help me understand so I can add to our healing rather than our demise.

Good and Gracious God,
once again
I ask you
to teach us
the way
of peace.
Aid us
with your love
so we
may truly learn
how to love
one another.
Please forgive
our intolerance,
our arrogance,
our faithlessness,
and our
stubborn resolve
to destroy.
Show us
your better way.

Love, Andrea