Prayer for Friends and Enemies

But I say to you that listen, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you. Bless those who curse you, and pray for those who abuse you. (Luke 6:27, NRSV.)

God of our silent tears, for nine weary years we have longed for justice for the families of thousands who died on 9/11 at the hands of terrorists. As the world reels with the news of the death of a mass murderer, remind us of these words of Jesus, bless those who curse you and pray for those who abuse you, lest we be tempted to gloat or revile.

Remind us that we are all dust, and remind us that even this man was once a child of his community.

We join the thousands of families affected by terrorism as they mourn anew seeking resolution and consolation.

We join the world community in prayer for world peace.

We look forward to a day when people everywhere will be free to dwell under their own vines and fig trees and study war no more. Amen.