As the war in Ukraine intensifies, bringing yet more horror and devastation, here’s a prayer for the people of Ukraine in their suffering, asking that they will somehow, despite all they are going through, know that God still deeply cares for them.
For the people of Ukraine in their suffering
Our hearts bleed, Lord, for the people of Ukraine in their suffering.
May they know that your heart bleeds too.
Our hearts bleed for those who have seen their homes destroyed.
May they know that your heart bleeds too.
Our hearts bleed for those whose towns and cities have been laid waste.
May they know that your heart bleeds too.
Our hearts bleed for those who fear for the fate of loved ones
May they know that your heart bleeds too.
Our hearts bleed for those who have been wounded in battle.
May they know that your heart bleeds too.
Our hearts bleed for those bereaved by the conflict.
May they know that your heart bleeds too.
Our hearts bleed for those who have fled as refugees.
May they know that your heart bleeds too.
Our hearts bleed for those whose partners are fighting at the front.
May they know that your heart bleeds too.
Our hearts bleed for those who have seen their way of life callously destroyed.
May they know that your heart bleeds too.
Our hearts bleed for those sheltering from missiles raining down upon them.
May they know that your heart bleeds too.
Our hearts bleed for those who urgently need drugs and other medical resources.
May they know that your heart bleeds too.
Our hearts bleed for those who live in terror of what the next day may bring.
May they know that your heart bleeds too.
Our hearts bleed for those who fear that the future will bring years of oppression.
May they know that your heart bleeds too.
Lord God,
may all those whose lives have been turned upside-down by Russia’s naked aggression,
by this stupid and senseless war,
know that you are with them in their suffering,
moved by their plight,
and seeking to support and strengthen them during these dark days.
Whatever the future may bring,
be with them to help and to hold,
to enfold and embrace,
your heart reaching out in love.
Amen,