God,
The pope asked Lebanon to pray. But also, to reflect.
To ask forgiveness for mistakes, for selfishness, disunity.
Behind closed doors the leaders spoke—the sects, but not the parties.
They shared their fears, frustrations, pain.
But will it make a difference?
God, the early signs are good—no one wants the spirit quenched.
A good will gesture from the Turks: Despite no pay the barges run.
And parliament has cast its vote: Cash assistance for the poor.
The president and cabinet add: The subsidy on meds will stay.
Investigations of the blast: Renewal of summons for elite.
But this time they agree to come: Renewal of hope for justice lost.
No peace without it, said the pope, as others preach through violent means.
A city riots, a bank is stormed—and sanctions readied by the West.
Against all powers the pope proclaimed: The interference now must stop.
And then he left the file domestic—no global conference called to help.
God, why did the pope not call politicians?
They implement all ethereal hope.
Would they agree if he stooped in humility,
Washing the feet of those he rebuked?
God, you know.
Help us reflect on religion in politics.
Help us in balance of nation and sect.
Lebanon’s clerics all came together.
Help us as people to all do the same.
To pray and seek wisdom.
To listen and think.
To act in consensus.
To labor for peace.
God, would you hear the plea of Pope Francis:
Answer the Lebanese cry of distress.
Amen.
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Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.
It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.
It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.
How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.
Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.
It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.
It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.
How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.
Sometimes prayer can generate more prayer. While mine is for general principles, you may have very specific hopes for Lebanon. You are welcome to post these here as comments, that others might pray with you as you place your desires before God.
If you wish to share your own prayer, please adhere to the following guidelines:
1) The sincerest prayers are before God alone. Please consult with God before posting anything.
2) If a prayer of hope, strive to express a collective encouragement.
3) If a prayer of lament, strive to express a collective grief.
4) If a prayer of anger, refrain from criticizing specific people, parties, sects, or nations. While it may be appropriate, save these for your prayers alone before God.
5) In every prayer, do your best to include a blessing.
I will do my best to moderate accordingly. Thank you for praying for Lebanon and her people.
Jayson Casper 