God,
Lebanon is working—the budget it attempts.
But Lebanon is waiting—much as it always has.
The world is rumbling, rolling—the tanks into Ukraine.
The world continues waiting—Taiwan, Iran, and then?
The tea kettle whistling, the boil on high.
Is this the beginning, explosion to come?
Or the last gasp of pressure, then all settles calm?
Is ISIS related, the bombs that were foiled?
What would have happened if Dahiyeh burned?
But the ripples are real: Will wheat be supplied?
Troubles sufficient, must others’ pinch too?
Still, not fully waiting, condemning assault,
Beirut called it “invasion,” and then—tightrope walk.
Russia is angry, the militia in turn.
Were all sects consulted? Was it needed? Why so?
But students are stuck there, Ukrainians here.
The latter protesting, the first seek return.
It is a good reminder, God.
Lebanon suffers. But it is still home.
Protect it in these troubled days.
Help it work to help itself.
Expose its every evil.
Let shine its every good.
You preside over the nations.
You caretake every soul.
Bring peace, to both.
Amen.
To receive Lebanon Prayer by WhatsApp, please click this link to join the closed comments group.
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 