Prayer for Peace

December

European Region

Poem and artwork

 

How we long for such a messenger in these days, but far and wide there is none to be seen, instead the spiral of violence goes on and on, fear and suffering grow, justice and truth are lost.

People, the whole of creation, are crying out for peace, for “Immanuel” - i.e. “God is with us” - as in the old Advent hymn:

„O come, O come, Immanuel, and ransom captive Israel, that mourns in lonely exile here until the Son of God appear…“

Come Immanuel to all who live in places of war and are without the basic necessities of life.

Come Immanuel to all those who are mourning their loved ones in places of war, who are mourning their dead.

Come Immanuel to all those who stand before the ruins of their lives, who have lost their home and their future.

Come Immanuel to all political, military and religious leaders, that they may distinguish between good and evil, that they may take steps towards a just peace.

Come Immanuel, despite all disappointments and adversities, let us never lose hope in your peace and justice.

Come Immanuel, fill our hearts with your peace and let us become messengers of your peace.

Come Immanuel, come soon, come soon!

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