God of life and justice, on this anniversary of October 7, we remember a day of terror and anguish. We grieve the lives lost to Hamas’ attack. We remember those who were wounded, kidnapped, held hostage, and still bear scars seen and unseen. Our hearts hold every family still waiting, still aching, still fearing for the safe homecoming of their loved ones.
We also hold before you the people of Gaza, who suffer under siege and displacement, whose cries for justice rise from shattered streets and crowded refugee camps, whose children have learned the sound of bombs before they know the sound of their own dreams. We lament the killing of innocents, the displacement of thousands, the genocide, the devastation wrought by decisions and policies made in anger and fear.
We long for a world where all can dwell in safety, a world of justice and mercy.
For those who believe violence is their only option — open a different path.
For leaders who wield power — grant courage to choose restraint.
For the dead and the traumatized — hold them in your eternal care.
For Jews, Muslims, Christians, and all your children — remind us that our dignity and future are bound together.
God, the book of Revelation makes your vision clear: a river of life flowing from your throne, a tree of life whose branches stretch and expand across every border, its leaves for the healing of all nations.
In light of this vision, we pray for peace that too often feels beyond reach, and for enough hope to water the scorched ground, calling forth new life and growth.
In the name of our compassionate Creator and the source of our hope, we pray. Amen.
