Many conflicts don't make it into our news bulletins. But just because we don't see them covered in our major media outlets doesn't mean that these events don't have a tremendous impact on those who have to live with them day in day out. And it doesn't mean that they don't deserve our attention.
We shouldn't ignore the sufferings of our brothers and sisters because they're far away from us. It shouldn't be a case of out of sight, out of mind. After all, we're called to help those in need and be compassionate to our neighbours (and we know that doesn't just mean the ones next door).
It can be overwhelming to learn of the huge arsenals of weapons possessed by those who are killing innocent civilians.
But prayer is a powerful tool that we can use to appeal to the Lord to ease the suffering of innocent victims of conflicts and bring harmony and peace to the world.
We shouldn't be intimidated by the sheer magnitude of a problem we're trying to address to the point of doing nothing. Instead, we should feel empowered by our ability to call on God to help light the way for peace.
Whether there's a particular place that you feel called to prayer for, or you just want to pray because you feel powerless to affect any sort of change, here are four prayers that you can say for peace in our world.
"Dear Lord,
We pray for all whose lives have been touched by tragedy, whether by accident or a deliberate act.
For those who mourn, immerse them in your love and lead them through this darkness into your arms, and light.
For those who comfort, be in both the words they use and all that's left unspoken; fill each heart with love.
We ask this through Jesus Christ, whose own suffering brought us life, here and for eternity.
Amen."
— faithandworship.com
"Most gracious God and Father, in whose will is our peace,
Turn our hearts and the hearts of all to yourself, that by the power of your Spirit the peace which is founded on righteousness may be established throughout the whole world; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen."
— Church of England
"Almighty and all powerful God, creator of the world and the nations
We bring before you all those caught up in the conflict in Syria.
We pray for an immediate ceasefire, for an end to violence against all civilians.
Give humanitarian organisations the space to assess the needs of those living in poverty and insecurity.
We pray for those who are experiencing the pain of personal loss, for families who are mourning the loss of loved ones.
Comfort especially those who have friends and family members missing.
We pray for those caught up in the cycle of violence and bloodshed: give them a just peace.
We pray for those in positions of power who have the means to make a difference.
Guide the United Nations, and governments whose intervention might bring about peace.
And we pray for ourselves, that we will not ignore their pleas for help, that we may play our part in bringing about the change that they want to see.
Amen."
— Christian Aid
"Make your ways known upon earth, Lord God,
Your saving power among all peoples.
Renew your Church in holiness and help us to serve you with joy.
Guide the leaders of all nations, that justice may prevail throughout the world.
Let not the needy be forgotten, nor the hope of the poor be taken away.
Make us instruments of your peace and let your glory be over all the earth.
Amen."
— Church of England
