Friday, September 02, 2005

A Hurricane Prayer

Gracious and loving God, we come to you today filled
with sorrow and dismay at the destruction we have
witnessed in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

Help us remember, God, that you are our refuge and
strength, a very present help in times of trouble.

We are anxious because life seems so tenuous and so
fragile. The situation in the gulf region is so grim.

We will not fear though the earth should change,
though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea,
though its waters roar and foam.

We seek answers to our questions about why the
suffering is so great and the devastation is so widespread,
and why help seems to be so slow to arrive.

We claim the promise that the Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our refuge.

Be with all of the people who have lost family members,
friends, livelihoods, and homes. Help us to be the hands
and feet of Christ in our response to them.

Give strength and safety to all of the relief and recovery
workers who are delivering supplies and comfort.

Give us wisdom, courage, and direction as we continue
to discern how we might bring comfort and hope during
these days of tragedy. Help us to remember…

…the Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our refuge.

Amen.

A prayer based on Psalm 46;
adapted from a litany written by
Reformed Church World
Service coordinator Betty Voskuil.

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