O God, This Day We Grieve LEONI 6.6.8.4 ("The God of Abraham Praise”) O God, this day we grieve your children who were lost, and we, as one, are horrified by hatred’s cost. For people loved by you— your children, called and blest— were murdered on their Sabbath Day of prayer and rest. We grieve for those who died, for families left behind, for those who wonder if this world can still be kind. So many lives were changed, so many dreams were crushed. There’s so much hatred! God, what has become of us? We thank you, God, for ones who bravely entered in, to serve and to protect, so hatred would not win— and for the ones who lead, we offer you this prayer: May they be good examples of respect and care. God, teach us all to love— and may we understand that hatred cannot have a place in this good land, and guns cannot secure the peace we pray will be. May we, together, build a true community. O God, unite us all, no matter how we pray, and may we work together for … [Read more...]

When We Watch the Rescue MUELLER 11.11.11.11 ("Away in a Manger") When we watch the rescue of children or youth, O God of great mercy, may we see your truth— That children are precious and you love each one. They’re made in your image— each daughter, each son. When we watch as children who crossed to this land Are locked in detention as part of some plan, May we be reminded that you love them, too; They’re made in your image; they’re precious to you. When we watch the little ones, hungry and poor, Who wait as our great nation closes the door, May we be reminded that as we treat them, We’re looking at Jesus and so treating him. O God, your Son taught us, and we know it’s true, That each single person is precious to you. O Lord, may we know it’s our mission today To welcome the children-- not turn them away. Biblical References: Matthew 19:13-15; Mark 10:13-16, Luke 18:15-17; Matthew 25:31-46 Tune: James Ramsey Murray, 1887 Text: Copyright © 2018 by Carolyn … [Read more...]

When Jesus Went to Egypt PASSION CHORALE 7.6.7.6 D ("O Sacred Head, Now Wounded")   When Jesus went to Egypt, Safe on his mother’s arm, His parents stayed beside him To keep him safe from harm. And when they crossed the border, They were allowed to be Together – seeking refuge – A Holy Family.   O God, we pray for children And families coming here Now facing separation, And filled with grief and fear.   For children, loved and treasured, Are ripped from loving kin. This deed, by any measure, Is torture. It’s a sin!O God, you’re like a mother Who won’t forsake her own.   You’re like a loving father Who welcomes his son home. Now give us, by your Spirit, The strength to challenge wrong, To seek the best for children, And keep all families strong.       Biblical references: Matthew 2:12-18; Isaiah 49:15; 66:13; Luke 15:11-32; Matthew 25:31–46   Tune: Hans Leo Hassler, 1601; … [Read more...]

“What Good Can Come from Nazareth?” AURELIA 7.6.7.6 D ("The Church's One Foundation") “What good can come from Nazareth? Can any good at all?” Nathaniel said to Philip when he heard Philip’s call. The prophets never praised it— that little backwoods place! He thought God wouldn’t choose it to be a means of grace. And yet, when he met Jesus, Nathaniel changed his ways. His words that put down others soon turned to words of praise. He called our Savior “Rabbi!” and “Son of God!” and “King!” What change a little listening and openness can bring! “What good can come from strangers?” O God, we hear the shout. For some hate other people and seek to push them out. May we who follow Jesus be glad to “Come and see!” May we learn from each other with true humility. O God of all our cultures, now make us one, we pray. May we see your grace working in all your lands this day. May we hear others’ stories— what makes them sad or strong, Till— listening— we find friendship, … [Read more...]