It is interesting that on the 12th anniversary of the terrorist
attacks that happened in the United States on September 11, we hear the
Beatitudes from the Gospel of Luke. We hear Jesus address those who are poor, those who are weeping, those who are
hungry, those who are insulted and excluded.
I know we all have visions and memories coming from our recollections of
that day. The world has changed a great deal since then, but hear we see our world and
our country debating whether we should send air strikes to Syria. We have Pope Francis called for a peaceful
response to what has happened there. I came across this prayer written for the anniversary of 9/11 by the Christine Sine of Mustard Seed Associates. I don’t
think I can say it more eloquently than this.
Let us pray:
God
so much violence, so much pain, so much heartache.
May
our memories of this day remind us of the horrors of war.
As
we grieve with those who still mourn,
And
share memories with those who cannot forget,
May
we be stirred by your love and compassion for all.
As
we remember those who bravely responded,
And
gave their lives to save others,
May
we draw strength from their selfless sacrifice.
As
we stand with strangers who became neighbours that day,
Sharing
and caring for people they did not know,
We
give thanks for their generosity and hospitality.
May
it remind us of the call to be good Samaritans,
Reaching
out across race and culture to other victims of violence.
So
many in our world have lost loved ones to terrorism and war,
May
their plight fill us with a longing for peace.
Let
us seek for understanding and reconciling,
And
not turn from your kingdom ways.
Above
all God may we remember your faithfulness,
And
learn to trust in your unfailing love.
Amen
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