A Prayer for the Crisis in Afghanistan

Gracious and loving God,

Forgive us the arrogance that supposes we can live at a distance from our neighbors around the world and assume no responsibility for the wellbeing of others.

Forgive us the opposing arrogance that supposes we can intervene in the affairs of other countries without the obligation to stand alongside of them.

Forgive us the childish need to resolve our national needs at their expense.

Forgive us the racism and callous disregard that shrugs off the deaths of thousands, tens of thousands, hundreds of thousands.

Forgive us the domestic calculations that inure us to the needs of the world around us.

Forgive us for the narcissism that grips our attention and absorbs our energy.

Spare the world where our impulsive and unreliable behavior imperils others.

Spare the world from forces set lose in the world by our lack of resolve.

Spare the world when we act without building alliances and nurturing conversation.

Watch over the men and women of our Armed Forces.

Now and in these dangerous days, protect and preserve them, aid them in their efforts.

Aid in the safe return of Americans and in providing refuge for those Afghans who have befriended the cause of freedom and are now in danger.

Let light perpetual shine upon those who have died.

Comfort their families, embrace those who fought alongside them.

Reassure those who grieve a loss of purpose and mission.

Draw close to those who are wounded in body and mind.

Renew our commitment to the values that have made for freedom and safety.

Renew our courage and resolve to stand alongside those who long for liberty.

Enliven our imagination, lend consistency to our actions, and guide us into the uncertain future.

In the complexity and layered demands of life, help us to distinguish our responsibilities as citizens of your Kingdom from our responsibilities as citizens of our nation.

Give your church courage, clarity of vision, and consistency of witness.

For the sake of ourselves, our neighbors, our nation and our world, lead us into lives that are captive to you and you alone.

Spare your church the easy partisanship that elides faith and politics to the detriment of the Gospel.

For the sake of your Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit, reign one God, now and forever.

Amen

Photo by Ramin Rahman on Unsplash