Pray for PeaceI have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 Like many of you, I am heartbroken by the war that has broken out between Israel and Hamas. Armed conflict is always messy and always inflicts pain and suffering most on the innocent who simply want to live in peace. As followers of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, what are we to do? Pray. Pray for the people of Israel and Palestine. For families and children, for the elderly, for those who are and will be left homeless, for those who are captive, hurt, and dying. Pray. For leaders around the world. For courage and wisdom to do what is right and just. Pray. For peace. For the cessation of armed conflict, for words rather than weapons to resolve the conflicts of the nations. This weekend during our services we will dedicate time for prayer for Israel and Palestine and for peace. Blessings, Matthew+
Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: So mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all peoples may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one Father; to whom be dominion and glory, now and for ever. Amen. (BCP p.815) Almighty God our heavenly Father, guide the nations of the world into the way of justice and truth, and establish among them that peace which is the fruit of righteousness, that they may become the kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. (BCP p.816) Almighty Father, whose will is to restore all things in your beloved Son, the King of all: govern the hearts and minds of those in authority, and bring the families of the nations, divided and torn apart by the ravages of sin, to be subject to his just and gentle rule; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. | 
