A Prayer While the World is on Fire

Lord,  It seems like the world is engulfed in flames

The flames of fear and hatred

So far unable to be contained

Please bring a refreshing shower of peace

Cause the churches closest to the flames to

“  . . . do justice, love kindness and walk humbly” (Micah 6:8)

As you have commanded

Give them your protection, wisdom, and words

To proclaim your gospel of peace in this seemingly endless firestorm

Cause us, your broader church, to “not be anxious about anything but . . .

(make our) requests be made known to God” (Philippians 4:6)

Do not allow us to be indifferent or judgmental as we sit a safe distance from the flames

But show us instead how we can promote peace and justice

in our own towns, neighborhoods, and schools

Knowing that you expect us to promote justice for the “widows and orphans” of all races and

Socio-economic classes in our lives

Let us know that while we may not be called to fight the large fires igniting on our

screens and social media

that you are calling us to fight small fires every day as they cross our paths

And as we seek to promote your peace and kingdom, may we remember to speak the

“truth in love”(Ephesians 4:15) knowing that you are still on your throne

even when a smokey haze seems to dim your brilliance

Finally, may we hold fast to the promise that while there will always be a blaze

somewhere in this fallen world, one day soon you will wipe away “every tear . . . and

death shall be no more, neither shall there be Mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore”

(Revelation 21:2-4)

Amen