September 11
September 11, 2013
Twelve years on, the memory and images of 9/11/2001 still move and haunt us. May the following prayer serve as a fitting memorial of that day, and may the God of Comfort, Healing, Forgiveness, and Hope be a presence in your life and in the world.
On the morning of September 11 2001, 2,976 people from 93 nations lost their lives in New York, at the Pentagon, and on Flight 93. Today, we pause to remember that moment of horror and pray for those left scarred by those terrible events.
We remember the first time we heard the news. We recall the first time we saw those images. We remember the way our thoughts and prayers were with those families who lost loved ones. Our thoughts and prayers are with them again today.
O God of Comfort – though the years have passed, you are faithful still. Yesterday, today and forever; let your love and peace endure.
We remember those who survived. We recall their heart-breaking stories. We remember that their lives are forever scarred by those moments. Our thoughts and prayers are with them again today.
O God of Healing – though the years have passed, you are faithful still. Yesterday, today and forever; let your love and peace endure.
We remember the pain we felt. We recall the bereavement and bitterness of the aftermath. We remember that you are a God of redemption and restoration; may we find release from pain and anger.
O God of Forgiveness – though the years have passed, you are faithful still. Yesterday, today and forever; let your love and peace endure.
We remember that you love the world. We recall that the way of Jesus is the way of reconciliation. We remember your Spirit inhabits the church and world. Help us bring your comfort and peace to all.
O God of Hope – though the years have passed, you are faithful still. Yesterday, today and forever; let your love and peace endure.
— © Jimmy Orr/engageworship.org
The legacy of 9/11 remains, both in the lives of those lost and the selfless sacrifice of many first-responders. Additionally, its legacy of war in Iraq and Afghanistan are still with us. And even now, the specter of US military action in Syria is a real possibility. Let us continue to pray for peace, and wisdom for our leaders, in this fragile time.
Blessings,
Rick