A Prayer on Oct. 7, 2024 – 1 Year after the Hamas attacks on Israel

O Lord, we still are appalled by the violence and atrocity of the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks. We continue to weep with those who lost family and friends on that day.

We pray for the release of the hostages, and for your presence holding both them and their loved ones who hope against hope for their release.

O Lord, end the continuing violence: the shelling, the bombing, the rocket attacks. Bring military and para-military commanders to their knees in humility and in a desire for peace. By your amazing reconciling power seen in Jesus Christ do a miracle so that the anger and hatred that is felt by all sides in this conflict would be turned to compassion for the others and forgiveness towards the other.

O Lord, we pray for grieving in Israel, in Gaza, in the West Bank, in Lebanon. We remember those orphaned and those who have buried their children. Bring healing to the injured, and strength to medical staff who work under extraordinary pressures.

O Lord, we pray that the leaders of nations in the region would seek peace, even when such a pursuit is risky in terms of political power, saving “face”, and personal status. Bring the leaders of Hamas, Israel, Hezbollah, Iran, Lebanon, the Houthis, and others face to face with the Prince of Peace who will someday rule all things with peace and reconciliation.

These things we pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.