Prayers in the midst of tragedy

Post a Comment » Written on December 20th, 2012
Filed under: General

As I reflect on the tragedy that our country has faced recently in the midst of the elementary school shooting in Newtown, CT, I am reminded of other parents that mourn the loss of their children around the world as well. It is easy to quickly become overwhelmed.

As our office met to pray for those affected by this tragedy, we read together the following prayer from the Celtic Daily Prayer book:

This night and every night
seems infinite with questions,
and sleep as elusive
as answers.

Pain and longing are always present,
dulled only a little
by the distractions of day.
I am weary; I am angry.
I am confused.

Circle the hurting, Lord.
Keep despair and disillusion without.
Bring a glimmer of hope within.

Circle the hurting, Lord;
keep nightmare without.
Bring moments of rest within.

Circle the hurting, Lord;
keep bitterness without.
Bring an occasional sense
of Your presence within.

Please join us in praying for those affected by this tragedy, as well as those affected by tragedies around the world every day. Psalm 57:1, “Have mercy on me, my God, have mercy on me, for in you I take refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed.”