A Prayer for Our Soldiers, and Their Families

A father of the fatherless, a defender of widows,
Is God in His holy habitation. (Psalm 68:5)

He administers justice for the fatherless and the widow ... (Deuteronomy 10:18)

The LORD watches over the strangers;
He relieves the fatherless and widow;
But the way of the wicked He turns upside down. (Psalm 146:9)

Father, please comfort the survivors - the victims and their families. Surround them with Your presence and keep them safe. Lord, let them feel Your love in every waking moment, and let them sleep in peace. Send those across their paths who will minister to them in any way they need it.

We also ask that you aid the investigators, and all who labor to set things right. Let justice be done.

We also ask that you guide the hands and thoughts of the doctors and nurses who are charged with mending the bodies of those who were injured. Aid the counselors who work with the survivors, and grant Your peace to all.

Lord, we also ask that you help us all to understand that we live in a fallen and broken world; that sometimes, despite our best efforts, bad things happen. Especially comfort the children whose lives have been shattered, and hold them close.

We ask all this in the name of our Lord Jesus. Amen.