Help us to understand in your great plan, O God our creator, that you did not cause this terrorist attack to happen or allow it to take place in order to test us or scare us or even to build our faith. How grieved your heart must be for all of those suffering loss. In the midst of despair, O God our sustainer, the stories of hope touch us deeply. The giving of blood and money to help our unnamed friends. Flags at half staff everywhere.
People giving tirelessly of themselves to search for and care for one another.
Words and tears and acts of love from ordinary people in countries all over the world. We pray for the leaders of our country and indeed the leader of of all nations as we struggle to live in a global community. May they be blessed with wisdom that brings together your justice and your concern for all your people. As Christians we remember the loss of Jesus' life to violence and the way you, Almighty God, showed us as your faith community, that the darkness brought about by humankind can never overcome the light of your love. In the hope of your love that cannot be halted or extinguished, we offer our prayer.