A 9/11 Prayer

We remember the first time we heard the news.
We recall the first time we saw those images.
We remember the way our thoughts and prayers were with those families who lost loved ones.
Our thoughts and prayers are with them again today.

O God of comfort - twelve years have passed.

Yesterday, today and forever;
let your love and peace endure.

We remember those who survived.
We recall their heart-breaking stories.
We remember that their lives are forever scarred by those moments.
Our thoughts and prayers are with them again today.

O God of healing - twelve years have passed. 
Yesterday, today and forever;
let your love and peace endure.

We remember the pain we felt.
We recall the bereavement and bitterness of the aftermath.
We remember that you are a God of redemption and restoration.
Help us forgive those who caused so much trauma, and that we may find release in that forgiveness.

O God of forgiveness - twelve years have passed.

Yesterday, today and forever;
let your love and peace endure.

We remember that you love the world.
We recall you sent your Son to bring reconciliation and salvation.
We remember your Spirit inhabits your Church.
Help us bring your comfort and peace to all.

O God of hope - twelve years have passed.

Yesterday, today and forever;
let your love and peace endure.

© Jimmy Orr/engageworship.org