Our congregation lifted this corporate prayer of lament based on Psalm 11 about the violence in our country together this morning. Sharing it here as well.
Prayer of Lament over Violence based on Psalm 11
Glorious Lord and Redeemer. Our hearts are heavy because of the violence in our land. We lament at the senseless murders we witnessed this week, and we lament the violence in our streets and schools. Yet, we trust You, Lord for protection. The wicked are stringing their bows and fitting their arrows on bowstrings. They shoot from the shadows at those whose hearts are right. Lord Jesus, when the foundations of law and order have collapsed, what can the righteous do?
Yet, you Oh Lord are in your holy Temple. Jesus, you rule from heaven and watch everyone closely, examining every person on earth. Jesus, you test both the righteous and the wicked, and you hate those who love violence. We pray that you would bring judgement, like blazing coals and burning sulfer on those who have done violence in our world. Punish them and let them be brought to justice. The righteous Lord loves justice. Yet we also rejoice that those whom you have rescued shall see your face.
So we look to you today Lord, and find refuge in You. Comfort the families who have lost loved ones to violence. Comfort us as we grieve the violence in our world. Teach us to love our enemies and pray for those whom we disagree. And deliver our country and world from violence and division through the power of the Gospel.
In Jesus name, Amen.