For the families of those killed in flight PS752 mistakenly shot down over Iran

A prayer today, adapted from my book 2,000 Prayers for Public Worship, for the families and friends of the 176 people tragically killed in the shooting down over Iran last week of flight PS752. We can scarcely begin to imagine the shock, anger and heartache so many are feeling at this time.

Loving God,
we remember today all who mourn,
their hearts broken by tragedy,
tears a constant companion,
laughter and happiness seeming a distant memory.
Especially we think of those who lost their lives in the plane crash last week,

and of their families and friends,
reeling still with shock and disbelief,
struggling to come to terms with what has happened:
with the senseless loss of their loved ones through human error.
Reach out into their pain, heartache and sadness,

and give them the knowledge that you understand their hurt
and share their sorrow.
May your arms enfold them,
your love bring comfort,
and your light scatter the shadows,
so that somehow,
in years to come,
they may find hope for the future,
and know joy once more.

Amen.