our thoughts and prayers to blacksburg and beyond


in light of the terrible events at virginia tech this week, i can think of nothing more powerful to say than these words, a prayer for the bereaved from the reformed church in france, 1963.
o living God, you share all our griefs.
give a meaning to that which defies our understanding.
shine upon our night.
you alone can show us that we are not abandoned to chance or fate,
not even in what seems revolting or senseless to us,
but that in all things you work for the good of those who love you.
grant that those who mourn may receive your message
even through their sufferings.
through their sorrow challenge them
to discover the help of your mercy,
and to hope more fervently for your kingdom.
through their sadness, open them more to your compassion,
and help them to live in your strength alone.
reveal your nearness to those who suffer this day.
surround them with the love you have for your children,
through Jesus Christ our Savior. amen.

Comments

Anonymous said…
Great words Frank. Well chosen. Can those words be shared too with the 200 killed in Iraq regardless of their creed or faith.

Thanks