O God, I
do not know where to turn in a time of terrorism. I have no easy answers or
solutions to acts of terror against the innocent. When buildings explode without
warning, when the defenseless are murdered without reason, I am tempted to
retaliate with vengeance. I am tempted to place the flag above the cross and put
my faith in the state rather than the Sermon on the Mount. I am afraid to face
my deepest fears of suffering and death, both for myself and those I love.
O God, be merciful to me a sinner and understand my weakness, my lack of trust.
I lift my heart to a God of forgiveness, of compassion, of peace. I believe that
You are not present in any act of violence. I believe that every human being is
a child of God and that all nations and religions are embraced by You. I believe
that violence ignites greater violence and that in the long line of history our
only lasting legacy is love.
I recommit myself to nonviolence as a witness of Your love. I will cast out fear
and boldly live love for neighbor and enemy. I will cast out fear and renounce
hatred, desire for revenge and works of war. I will cast out fear and publicly
proclaim that You are a God of unlimited and unconditional love.
I recommit myself to nonviolence as a witness of Your love. I will embrace the
suffering of others and wipe every tear from their eyes. I will devote my days
to works of mercy and justice, not to deeds of death and destruction. I will
give my passion to kindness and beauty and imagination. I commit to hope and the
children of tomorrow.
Amen.
By Mary Lou Kownacki, OSB
for Pax
Christi