A Psalm for Healing and Hope
Inspired by Psalm 116
Deborah Beach Giordano
© May 3, 2011
Holy, gracious, eternal, loving, merciful God, hear my prayer! I need Your help. I need it now, today, this instant.
I love You dearly; to the depth and breadth my soul can reach. You are the sweet solace of this world, the source of beauty, peace, and hope – and I need You now, today, this instant.
The snares of death encompass me; I am surrounded by bloodthirsty shouts and celebrations; flags are waving and fists are raised in fierce proclamations of a “holy” victory.
They are saying, Life-Giver, that this “kill” can be credited to You. There is laughter and rejoicing; bells are being rung and candles lit.
They are thanking You, O Great Redeemer, for death, destruction, and revenge.
I am terrified and grief-stricken, sick with horror and awash in tears. My soul trembles and my heart bleeds.
What are these creatures, Lord? I look upon the faces inflamed with venomous glee, I see their glinting eyes and hear their frightful, feral cries – and I find no trace of the people I thought I knew.
Hear my prayer, precious Redeemer; and save this wild and maddened mob. Turn them away before they plunge into perdition, hold them back so they won’t fall. Call their names, most loving Shepherd, restore their minds and heal their souls.
O Lord, make me your servant, a true and faithful instrument of your peace. Let my words and works reveal Your justice, mercy, grace and love.
Give me strength and hope and courage in the days ahead. Lift up my spirit and stiffen my spine.
Amen and all praise and thanksgiving to the One True God of love and life!
