Watching the news… rioting in Washington D.C. instigated by the outgoing President. Shameful and graceless. How should we respond? As I struggled for words to pray, a song title popped into my mind: “Jesus, do You watch the news? Do You pray it’s not true?” Paul Field wrote this, asking the question on many lips in this dangerous world. The answer? Yes, Jesus IS fully aware- and involved in healing and reconciling.

To be honest, I find it hard to want anything other than Trump being arrested and either locked up or confined to a mental hospital. That appeals to the part of me that cries out for justice! Some of you may be horrified or angered by my statement… please read on. And if you are cheering my vengefulness, please read on because there is more to this!

For I am also aware that God moves in mercy (just as well for me!) and calls us to love our enemies not just our friends. As I puzzled over this, another of Paul’s songs jumped from my memory. This is a prayer I endorse as a prescription to any Christian saddened and troubled by these events. We may not agree on politics, and may see things differently, but I do hope we could all unite and truly “Go Peaceful… through the violence of these days.” We cannot control events- but we can ask the Lord to help us control our response- and pray as peacemakers not vigilantes. Peace to this world, Lord- come soon!

Go peaceful, In gentleness, 
Through the violence of these days 
Give freely, Show tenderness 
In all your ways
Through darkness, In troubled times
Let holiness be your aim
Seek wisdom, Let faithfulness
Burn like a flame
God speed you, God lead you, And keep you wrapped around his heart,
May you be known by love
Be righteous, Speak truthfully
In a world of greed and lies
Show kindness, See everyone Through heaven's eyes
God hold you, Enfold you, And keep you wrapped around his heart
May you be known by love
God speed you, God lead you, And keep you wrapped around his heart
May you be known by love
May you be known by love.

Song (c) Paul Field