Chicago recently experienced six deaths over the Memorial Day weekend. Many more individuals were shot, but survived. This year so far Chicago has had a high number of homicides. I mention this because I live in a suburb of Chicago and realize the tensions that exist.
I realize that many churches do pray for peace not only for one's city, but also for peace across the nation and throughout the world. We have these words from the psalmist: "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: 'May they prosper who love you. Peace be within your walls, and security within your towers.' Psalm 122:6
Praying for peace ought to be not only for time of war or gang related violence. Peace can also be lacking when there is political tension in one's local government or where people might be food insecure, or where there might be an outbreak of a virus. Praying for peace is asking God to bring the conditions where people can prosper and live together well in community.
Yes, I believe amid all the praying it seems takes place for peace, we ought not slack off in bringing this request to God. As part of my Pastoral Prayer in worship, I pray for peace very Sunday. May peace be part of your praying as well!
Tuesday, June 7, 2016
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