Is anything too hard for the Lord? Genesis 18:14
Healing of the nations. I watched a documentary on BBC TV called “The Children of Syria,” which followed children for several months from all sides in the war. Watching them parrot the hate for their former friends as taught them by their adult family and community leaders, it struck me again: no child is born hating. They have to be taught it. I read and saw pictures and videos of the hundreds of Iraqis, including children, murdered by ISIS – the Islamist extremist “state” jihadists, in “celebration” of Eid, which this week ended the holy month of Ramadan.
Continuing violence in so many countries, oppression, abuse of power (whether political or domestic). Counterbalancing that is the inspiration, empowerment, energy and hope expressed by the participants in the Girl Summit held in London, UK, to help improve the life and experience of girls and women throughout the world.
Storms, floods, droughts, affecting people in so many continents. The poor, vulnerable and children inevitably paying the highest price, but thanksgiving for so many who open their hearts, homes and money to care even if all they have to give is what is probably the most valuable – time and love.
The Ebola epidemic in western Africa and the selfless dedication of so many caring for the living and the dead.
The 5 million refugees in Colombia, South America, as well as the Middle East, Somalia, Sudan, Central Africa and elsewhere. The list seems endless….
At the same time I have been watching coverage of The Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, known as “The Friendly Games” where representatives from 71 countries and territories compete in integrated able-bodied and para-games. The Scots crowd even cheered on their “auld enemy” England! Simultaneously I am reading “Abide in My Love” reflections given to Fr John Woolley, a former Anglican Psychiatric Hospital Chaplain. It is written in the form of communications from God. Page 94 says,
“My child, yes, all-sufficient…
Never be afraid to put this to the test.”
Is anything too hard for the Lord? Genesis 18:14
All of this and more I bring to God, using the words of Fred Kaan’s hymn as prayer:
FOR THE HEALING OF THE NATIONS
For the healing of the nations,
Lord, we pray with one accord,
for a just and equal sharing
of the things that earth affords.
To a life of love in action
help us rise and pledge our word.
Lead us forward into freedom,
from despair your world release,
that, redeemed from war and hatred,
all may come and go in peace.
Show us how through care and goodness
fear will die and hope increase.
All that kills abundant living,
let it from the earth be banned:
pride of status, race or schooling,
dogmas that obscure your plan.
In our common quest for justice
may we hallow brief life’s span.
You, Creator God, have written
your great name on humankind;
for our growing in your likeness
bring the life of Christ to mind;
that by our response and service
earth its destiny may find.
AMEN.
——————————————————————————–
Words: Fred Kaan
Words © 1968 In US & Canada: Hope Publishing Company, www.hopepublishing.com
Rest of the World: Stainer & Bell Ltd., www.stainer.co.uk
Leave a Reply