In these days when the situation in Ukraine dominates the news, let us pray for the people there, and for the dove of peace to descend upon them. At the same time, may we prayerfully be attuned to the many in conflicts apparently less newsworthy, or so drawn out as to be forgotten. Our human minds can only take in so much, but human hearts opened by God’s heart can pray for the entire world.

“Eternal God, our only hope,

our help in times of trouble:

show nations ways to work out differences.

Do not let threats multiply

or power be used without compassion.

May your will overrule human willfulness,

so that people may agree and settle claims peacefully.

Hold back those who are impulsive,

lest desire for vengeance overwhelm our common welfare.

Bring peace to earth, through Jesus Christ,

the Prince of Peace and Savior of us all. Amen.”

Book of Common Worship (1995)

 Photo by Artem Podrez from Pexels