God of compassion and grace, we come to you in this time of turmoil, needing your presence and guidance

We struggle with how to deal with the terrorism in our world;

• Sometimes we do not know which way to turn;
• Sometimes we do not know who or what to believe.

As we seek to live in the tension of uncertainty without losing our

balance, we need your presence and guidance.

We know that you love all your people and that your will for all is peace.

Let us pray for all diplomats, ambassadors, world leaders, church leaders and all who continue to seek peaceful resolution to conflict. Be with those who make decisions about sending our military to war, and stay them from making rash decisions.

Let us pray for all those who serve in our military, and those who are called to assist them:

• When we send our Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Coast Guard into harm’s way, be with them, and keep them in your care;

• Be with our chaplains who put their lives on the line to bring your presence and grace to the women and men who must go in harm’s way.

• Be with the doctors, nurses, and medics who risk their own safety and lives to bring comfort and healing skills to the wounded.

In this time of waiting on the edge of massive events, let us pray for the many who are forgotten -- unnamed soldiers, workers, families and children in the path of destruction who have done no wrong but will suffer, and perhaps die.

God of compassion and grace, have compassion on us when we make mistakes. As Jesus forgave those who put him to death, we pray for compassion on those who hate us and would destroy us;

Let us pray for all people everywhere who live in fear, and for our own fear.