Today in our prayers for the people of Russia.

Prayer for Peace

Danny A. Belrose

Whirling, swirling skyward

-here, in this sacred space we sense your Spirit, God,
-not because the other places where we walk, talk,
and live out our daily lives are less sacred.

Every sanctuary large or small, humble or ornate

-every living room, field, forest, mountain stream
dedicated to your praise and peace
awakens us to your presence.

We come expectant.

We come in search of you, of ourselves,

of those we know and do not know
who need to be blessed and to be your blessing.

How many feet have journeyed

this Worshiper’s Path, God?

How many faces, races, friends, families, stranger?

Heads bowed in silence.

Hearts filled with hope and anticipation.

Upward. Inward. Slowly, reflectively,

winding their way into spiraling space.

Bringing you here, meeting you here

-taking you with them, God.

Opening themselves, once again,

to your ever-abiding presence at all corners of life.

And somehow awakening to the wonder that they too

are your temple
-each a living, loving sanctuary of peace,
reconciliation, and healing of the Spirit.

May this shining symbol escape its footings and foundation.

May it wander far and wide in crepe soles,

sandals, high-heels, bare-feet, and sneakers
-its walls wrapped in suits, saris,
shirts and sundresses.

Let its face be a rainbow of cultures,

young and old, weak and strong
-each a living sanctuary of Christ’s peace.

And may those who never enter its doors, become its doors

welcoming all they meet with the
gift of grace and holy acceptance.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.