A Prayer in the aftermath of Charlottesville

Lord of love and mercy
hear our cries of pain,
cries of injustice,
cries of brokenness.

You created all in Your image
yet we have made others lesser than
we have decided who is better than whom,
making ourselves superior.

forgive us, Lord, for we have sinned.
we have not loved Your children.
we have not called out racism.
we have not confronted hate.

change our hearts, o Lord,
so light will replace darkness.
change our hearts, o Lord,
so hymns will replace hate speech.

give us courage to stand,
wisdom to speak up.
give us assurances
in your promise
that You hear our cries.

let the torches we carry
be lit by Your love.
let the words we use
reflect grace and peace.

change our hearts, o Lord. Amen.

- source: Tom Hazelwood on Facebook