O living and loving God, we give you thanks for the assurance that you hold us in the midst of turmoil and distress.  Today, we pray for President Obama, his Cabinet, and leaders of countries around the world.  We pray for your divine wisdom in the midst of their decisions.  We pray for those who plan acts of terrorism.  As hard as is it to pray for them, we pray that you place them upon the right path and that we will not be filled with bitterness and hatred.

We pray for those who are giving themselves to bring relief to all who are suffering around our country and the world.  We pray for those clergy and religious leaders who are working to bring care and comfort in the midst of despair and grief.

O God, remind us of your commitment to us.  We know your promise not to leave us desolate.  We know that you hold us in the palm of your hand with a love that will never let us go. We trust that you are working for our good, the good our country, our community, and the good of all your people around the world.  Give us grace to trust your goodness.  Send us into this day and every day as witnesses to your love and peace, in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  Amen.