thoughts on the news of the day: 9-11

hmmm…..

            A day or two after 9-11-01, a friend of mine who lives down by Houston, TX found herself in her homeland of Scotland with no one to talk to about the tragic events of a few days before.  She wandered into the little Granite Church at Crathie to mourn the deaths of so many Americans.  In the pews placed there was a small piece of paper with a prayer written by the minister of the church.  It was composed for Americans who might be visiting from overseas.  It was a great comfort to my friend and she brought it back to me.  Ten years later, the prayer bears repeating, and I share it with you now:

Heavenly Father hear our prayers for the world.

Our faith is tested; we find it hard to pray.

We want you to be aware of our anger.

Our frustration, our questions.

Why is EVIL allowed to prosper?

The prayer of the Psalmist is our prayer:

“Do something Lord and use your powerful arm.

The wicked won’t respect you.

In their hearts they say “God won’t punish us”

Dear God, in the name of Jesus Christ who died and

Rose again to conquer evil, hear our prayers.

We pray for the families who have lost their loved ones

And for those who wait for news.

We pray for the families of those who lost their lives as they went to save others.

We pray for our political leaders and their advisors as they consider their response.

Gracious God,

Through your Son you have taught us that nothing in life

or in death can separate us from your love.

Look in mercy on all to whom great sorrow has come

through the actions of terrorists in the U.S.

Help those who are injured

Support those who are dying

Strengthen the members of the Emergency Services and

all who bring relief and comfort.

Console and protect those who lost family and friends.

Give your light in darkness to all who are in despair.

And assure them that you hold all souls in life.

Through Jesus Christ our Risen Lord.  Amen.

            hmmm…..