Our hearts continue to break as the suffering of the Israel-Hamas War escalates, and the humanitarian crisis becomes more dire. What can we do? Pray. Listen. Learn more. Advocate for humanitarian aid. Share gifts for Lutheran Disaster Response. Consider holding a local gathering for people to come together for prayer, scripture, silence, and care. Please feel free to email me, Bishop Dee Pederson, at [email protected] for questions or support.
Prayer:
Gracious God, the news of these days rips our hearts and tears our souls. Too many are walking through the valley of the shadow of death. In the depths of pain and anger, we come to you, our rock and our refuge. You know the depth of suffering and the grief of those who have only begun to mourn what they have lost. You are our only comfort. You are our only hope. Faithful God, surround this world with your everlasting arms. Hear the cries of despair, heed the calls for justice, and do not let your children lose hope. Bring peace in our world, peace in our homes, and peace in the hearts of all; through your Son, Jesus, our Savior, we pray. Amen.
(Adapted from Service After a Violent Event, All Creation Sings, p. 64)
