God of Life,
We are saddened by the tragedy
That has struck our nation in Newtown, Connecticut.
We grieve and pray for those who were killed and injured,
And for those who lost friends and loved ones.
We pray for healing across our land.
Lord, you are the God of love, peace and life.
Today we pray to you for the safety of our children.
Lord, protect them from all evil, physical and spiritual.
When some would do them harm, stop the attackers in their tracks.
When some would plot evil against them, turn their plans to nothing.
Today, Lord, make peace overcome violence,
Make gentleness overcome destruction,
Make love overcome hatred,
Make healing and wholeness overcome sickness,
Make life overcome death.
May we find comfort in your Word, which tells us:
"I
lift up my eyes to the mountains;