A Prayer for Peace

Friends,

I realize in the time such as this when US military forces become engaged in conflict many of us hold feelings in our heart as to what we should say or do. I wish to provide for you a prayer giving you a place to start as you formulate your thoughts. It is not meant to be the only prayer, but simply your pastor attempting to help each of us to get in tune with the feelings and emotions we might have.

— Pastor Bob 

Good and gracious God,

We recognize we live in a world where peace, although desired, isn't being reached. Many of us may feel overwhelmed by the chaos that comes from war or when we see images of bombs causing destruction to communities causing harm to people. We pray for a season of hope that in the midst of it all, we may find the peace that comes in you. Please hear us as we pray...

• For the people of Israel who for centuries have had to endure the continuous threat of war and violence

• For the people of Iran who may desire peace but live in an environment where their voice holds no value and isn't being heard

• For presidents, prime ministers, ayatollah, secretaries, and royal leaders who make decisions in the world theater that you call them to release the magnetic draw of the pursuit of power and instead pursue the path of peace which is never the easy way

• For protection of the men and women who wear our military uniform that they be kept safe and out of harm's way

• We ask the words of Isaiah 2:4 be realized, "The Lord will mediate between nations and settle international disputes. They will hammer their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will no longer fight against nation, nor train for war anymore."

In the name of Jesus we pray, 

Amen