Pray for Ukraine

From Pastor Jim's Cluttered Desks..
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Jesus answered: “Watch out that no one deceives you. For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and will deceive many. You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is yet to come.
                                                                                                 Jesus of Nazareth (Matthew 24:4-6)

In light of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine I encourage you to pray over the situation, especially for the people of Ukraine who are now suffering the devastation of war.

It is hard to find words to shape our prayers so I offer this poem that fits the tune Finlandia (“This Is My Song”). Perhaps it will help you, as it has me, to have the words to bring before the Triune God during this crisis.
We pray for peace, O God of love and justice,
as once again, we face a time of war.
The meek and humble try — amid the crisis --
to love and build, to nurture and restore.
May leaders hear the truth the prophets teach us --
that gifts of peace are well worth struggling for.
We pray for peace, O Christ who calmed the waters --
who stilled the storm, who stilled disciples’ fear.
You spoke with love and with amazing power;
be with us now when trouble is so near.
May leaders see the miracle you offer --
that words and deeds can calm the nations here.
We pray for peace, O Spirit here among us;
your love emboldens, judges, and restrains.
Take any hate and acts of impulse from us;
make leaders wise, amid competing claims.
May we seek peace, O God of love and justice;
may love and mercy be our highest aims.
                                                                        Carolyn Jean Sibelius
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Additionally, we will be impacted by this war. May our words and attitudes reflect our commitment to follow Jesus.
Be not afraid,
Pastor Jim