It has been a strange epiphany this year, God.
We’ve had sudden insight into how fragile democracy can be.
Many of us are disturbed and shocked by the violence and mayhem
that filled the halls of power in Washington DC this week.
Spaces sacred to government were violated by intruders
carrying weapons and symbols of racism.
We see the injustice of how government responds to protests;
when black people marched peacefully last year
they were met with a massive show of force.
We worry about a president who both refuses to concede
and fans flames of violent protest,
and the many who support him unconditionally.
We pray for peace, we pray for democracy,
we pray for an orderly transfer of power.
And on top of this, God, we are in the middle of a pandemic.
So many people around the world are in lockdown.
As hospitals reach capacity,
and health care professionals are stretched to the limit,
we are desperately waiting for vaccines to be rolled out.
Give wisdom and speed to those working on this problem.
Help us to comfort the grieving,
support those who are financially strapped,
and reach out to those who are isolated and alone.
Thank you for illumination…for moments where we see you working.
Thank you for the resiliency of politicians,
who continued their work even after violent disruption.
Thank you for the courage of all who care for the sick.
Thank you that our congregation continues to function
even when we can’t meet in person right now.
Together this week, in this cold winter season,
we hold onto the promise of a Saviour born to us,
who comes to bring peace on earth,
good news to all people. Amen.
Menu
I am a Mennonite pastor currently teaching theology at Conrad Grebel University College in Waterloo, Ontario. I’ve served congregations in Ontario and most recently, Alberta.