Over the past week, a wider war across the Middle East has broken out. Strikes and counterstrikes have expanded. People on multiple sides have been injured, killed, or displaced. Leaders around the world and across the region are responding with strong statements and warnings amid the continued violence. With all the uncertainty, you may find yourself dealing with a multitude of emotions, including confusion, disbelief, fear, anxiety, concern, grief, and helplessness. This situation is complex, layered with a long history, and emotions are understandably strong. As followers of Jesus, we are called to be fervent in prayer and act as peacemakers in the face of violence and war. Below is a prayer for peace that I invite you to pray with me.
Gracious and Loving God,
We come before you, and we are grieving the widening war in the Middle East.
Our hearts are heavy with images of destruction, fear, and loss.
We confess that we do not know how to untangle centuries of hurt.
But we know you are the Prince of Peace.
Lord, have mercy. Christ, have mercy. Spirit, breathe peace.
Protect the innocent. Comfort the grieving.
Shield children from terror and families from despair.
Surround the wounded with healing.
Strengthen and provide for those working for aid, rescue, and reconciliation.
Surround those serving in uniform with your mercy.
And steady the hearts of loved ones who wait for them at home.
Turn the hearts of the world’s leaders toward wisdom and interrupt cycles of violence.
Give courage to those who dare to seek peace.
Remind us that Jesus stood overlooking the city and wept.
He longed for its peace and wholeness.
He grieved the violence people would endure.
He prayed with tears for a people who did not yet understand the things that make for peace.
As we follow him, we stand in that same posture.
Not with clenched fists, but with open hands.
Not with hatred, but with open hearts.
Not with despair, but with hope.
Teach us to be peacemakers in our words, in our prayers, in our actions, and in our relationships, so that we do not add to the violence of the world.
And even now, in the rubble of war and waiting, bring resurrection life and an enduring peace.
In the name of Jesus Christ, our Prince of Peace, Amen.