Praying Together on Monday 12/17/2012

Today Father, more than most I desire that we draw close to you. Not simply because of the tragic events in Newtown, Conn., but because how easily and quickly we forgot our need of you. Remember I pray these families and friends, a community bound together not only by a horrific tragedy, and sense of loss for those we have never met, but because we understand the loss. We too are touched by it and at this time of year when we are trying to be cheerful and joyous because of the birth of a savior, we're hit with so great a loss. 

Help us as pastors, ministers and Christian leaders, and fellow human beings, to pray earnestly for these and those like them and ourselves, for our behavior and conduct to each other. For our failings as fellow beings, and not only the families of those killed, but the family of the perpetrator as well. He too has a family, who are be suffering as well, may they find you are present with them as well. 

I pray for our county, not only in the light of this latest event, but as a society and a culture, we've largely abandoned you and your teaching, and attempted to lead our lives without you and benefit of your instruction. We have abandoned you and now in a moment of utter failure, we call upon your name and ask your help. You have every right to say no or nothing.  Thank you for being so loving and hearing our cry and prayers. 

During the next few days, the families of their children will become ours; we will watch in silence and morn with those who have lost loved ones; may they know they are cared for not only today and this week, but that we will look out for them and each other, as if they were our family, because they are. May the distance which separates us, evaporate through prayer and concern. May we learn that we need you and each other, all of us. 

Come Holy Spirit, heal our wounded hearts, calm our anger and utter frustration not only in sobs and tears, but learning to lean on you and each other. 

Bless us who are called upon to preach and teach during this Christmas season, to do so with a greater seans of the meaning of your coming, as your angel said to Mary, " . . . to save His people from their sins." Thank you for a hope far greater than then that of some some senseless killer, and death of so many little children, but for those of us who must live with the empty place at the table, the room where they have slept, the toys and dolls left without a master or someone to hug them, and heart that will always long to  hold these dear one again, but cannot,   

Thank you again, for loving us, holding dear to your heart; for weeping with us and reminding us as you did at the grave of your dear friend, Lazarus. "Jesus wept."  May we lead through tears, heartbreak and pain, may we find strength in your Word and the presence of others. Thank you for sending the greatest and most valuable gift of all time, Your only begotten Son, Jesus to allow us to your son and daughters and children of the Most High. 

In the name of Jesus I and we pray, AMEN. 

T.A.B.

http://taburns.blogspot.com

"UBUNTU"