Praying in the face of a Tsunami

VIDEO version

The power of the waves crashing is nothing to the sucking into the deep.

Grey ash, blanketing... everything.

What happened to the blues and greens of these islands?

Where did death and destruction spew forth such filth?

We watch in fear and awe at satellite images and broken messages.

Hear our cry, O Lord.

Hear the pleading of our desperate voices and the longings of our hearts.

Please give us good news.

Please restore families and friends.

We ask that resources might make their way quickly to where they are most needed.

We ask for targeted aid to reach those who can best use it.

We pray about water and food and medicines.

We pray for rescuers, medical teams and emergency workers.

We pray for children and parents and grandparents.

We pray for widows and orphans.

In the face of tragedy and disaster, it is hard to make lists, o lord.

So, we ask your spirit to guide our words and thoughts.

Stir compassion and imagination, as we seek our best loving response.

O God, make haste to save communities in shock.

Enlarge our hearts, so we can respond with you.

Amen.

Prayer for children

 I have often resisted calling you Father,

Yet tonight I pray you remember you are a Father.

Remember what it is like to be worried for the vulnerable child.

Remember how children get when they are sick and simply want care and comfort.

Remember what it is like to be unwell and alone.

Please look upon our children and protect them, give them courage and comfort.

When they are sick, give us wisdom in how best to care for them.

Lord, Healer, Saviour… have mercy.

Amen