Brand New Mourning

We never know what each new day will bring.
We hope for joy and peace
Or at least the comfort
Of predictable routine.

We're never prepared
For the intrusion of
Evil
Acted out through
Harm and mayhem.

When death rips life
From our grasp,
When horror blurs
Our sight,

Have mercy on us, Lord.

Hold our aching souls
Guide us through
Dizzying grief,
Listen to our wailing "Why?"

Be the Comfort we may not even know we need
As we live through this brand new mourning. Amen.