Weep and pray

We have all watched the invasion of Ukraine with horror. Horror that has only intensified with the increased bombing of her cities and the suffering of her people.

“What can we do?” I have been asked again and again. 

Weep and Pray.

Weep for the incredible tragedy unfolding before us. Weep with those who have lost brothers and fathers, children and parents. Weep as God weeps for the addition of such suffering to this broken world.

Pray for the leaders of the nations of the world. Pray for the people who are caught in the crossfire, subject to bombing, living with the threat of imminent death. Pray for the refugees and those who will shelter them, and for the soldiers. 

Tears and prayer seems such a feeble response in the face of the devastating consequences of war. But prayer is breathing with God. Breathing with God who weeps at this tragedy, who is angry at the unnecessary destruction and loss of life, who stands with the broken, and enfolds the brokenhearted. 

I ask a moment of silence and your prayers in solidarity with the anguish of the people of Ukraine.

A Prayer for Ukraine

Holy and Gracious God,
We pray for the people of the Ukraine and the people of Russia; 
for their countries and their leaders.
We pray for all those who are afraid; 
that your everlasting arms hold them in this time of great fear.
We pray for all those who have the power over life and death; 
     that they will choose for all people life, and life in all its fullness.
We pray for those who choose war; that they will remember 
that you direct your people to turn our swords into ploughshares and seek for peace.
We pray for leaders on the world stage; that they may be inspired 
by the wisdom and courage of Christ.
Above all, Lord, today we pray for peace for Ukraine.
And we ask this in the name of your blessed Son.
Lord have mercy.
Christ have mercy.
Lord have mercy.
Amen.

From the United Methodist Church 2/24/22