Luke 15: 8 -10 A Prayer for Tirelessly Pursuing Peace
As we celebrate the Season of Peace, we are reminded each day that peace is often missing in our communities, our families, and in our own lives.
I write this on the 24th anniversary of September 11. Even now, I cannot look at the images or hear the stories of that day without tears and deep grief. Violence continues to touch lives around us: yesterday a young man was killed for reasons still unknown; this summer, lawmakers in Minnesota were murdered in their home while others were shot and gravely wounded; children were attacked at their school, two losing their lives as they gathered for morning mass. Immigrants live in fear of being detained simply because of their skin color or language. In Europe, tensions rise as Russian drones cross into Polish airspace. And this is only part of the list I am sure we could all add more.
In this season, let us commit to being peacemakers, pursuing a peace that brings justice and drives out fear. Let us pursue peace like the woman who searched for the lost coin. Not giving up until it is found.
O Christ, surround us
as we strive to be peacemakers,
following the example of your earthly ministry.
Grant us persistence in seeking peace,
like the woman who searched tirelessly
for her lost coin.
Guide us to pursue peace
in our homes, our communities,
our nation, and our world.
We rejoice for every opportunity
to share the peace
that only you can give.
In your holy name we pray.
Amen.
Adapted from A Season of Peace 2025
Luke 15:8–10 ‘Or what woman having ten silver coins, if she loses one of them, does not light a lamp, sweep the house, and search carefully until she finds it? When she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, “Rejoice with me, for I have found the coin that I had lost.” Just so, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.’
