WE HARVEST WHAT WE PLANT – SHALL WE PLANT WAR OR SHALL WE PLANT PEACE?

Lord Jesus, you said Blessed are the peacemakers.

Help the people of Ukraine to find their way through this horrendous war.  We know that through your Spirit you are doing everything you possibly can to change Putin’s heart, except force him to change.  He claims to be one of your followers.  Help him to realize that waging this war is totally antithetical to everything you consider to be most important: truth, compassion, peace, and love.

Help us to become peacemakers.  Show us how.

            Where can we show up?

            Where can we be present where there is no peace?

            What conflict do we need to go toward, not run from?
            Where do we need to speak up for reconciliation?

            To whom do we need to listen?

Thank you for those who defend the poor and powerless all over the world today.  Thank you for those who devote their lives to the cause of nonviolence, restoration, and healing.  May they know the blessing of your comfort and refreshment.

Help us all to notice in our own lives where we can invite and create peace – and nudge us to act.

Independent and United Church of Christ