For those whose lives have been devastated by the ongoing Australian bushfires

All of us will have been shocked by the bushfires that have raged for so long in many parts of Australia. We can only begin to imagine the fear and desperation of those caught up in the ongoing crisis. The following, adapted from two prayers in my book Intercessions for a Hurting World, seeks God’s help and strength for those whose lives have been devastated by the ongoing Australian bushfires, those who have been killed, those who are fighting the fires, and those who are seeking to coordinate the response.

God of all,
we think today of the people of Austalia,
and especially those who have been overwhelmed by the ongoing bushfires there.

We pray for those who have lost their lives,
civilians,
firefighters;
and for those who mourn them,

left shocked, bewildered and broken.
And we think also of those who are still in danger,
as fires continue to rage out of control.
Reach out to hold.
Reach out to help.

We pray for those whose homes have been damaged or destroyed;
whose livelihoods are gone;
who have witnessed so much that they worked for,
and treasured,
wrecked beyond repair;
who have seen friends or loved ones injured or killedl

who have been left shocked and bewildered by everything they have endured.
Reach out to hold.
Reach out to help.

We pause for a moment to consider the heartbreak so many are going through,
the terror they still face.

Silent reflection

Reach out to hold.
Reach out to help.

Be with all overwhelmed by this disaster
as they try to restore some semblance of normality to their lives,
to adjust to their changed circumstances
and to rebuild for the future.
Give them comfort and reassurance,
strength and support,
love and guidance,
hope for the future.
Reach out to hold.
Reach out to help.

We think of those entrusted with responding to the crisis.
Guide them in their planning and decisions,
so that further damage may be prevented where possible,
danger averted
and, above all, lives saved.
Reach out to hold.
Reach out to help.
Amen.