Praying with Stained Glass (6): What Is Needed Now

If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.

Underneath the South Rose Window at Chartres are a series of images–the New Testament Evangelists on the shoulders of the Old Testament prophets inspired by this quote from Bernard of Chartres (12th century). As we seek to live in the dark shadow of the terrorist attacks in Paris last night we must climb upon the shoulders of the giants who have gone before, showing us how to bring God’s love to a broken world.

‘Be the change that you wish to see in the world.’ Mahatma Gandhi

If you want peace, you don’t talk to your friends. You talk to your enemies. Desmond Tutu

My prayer:

God of Love and Compassion, comfort all who mourn. Forgive us for the violence we hide deep within our hearts. Free us from fear so that we might truly bring Your love to this very broken world.

Biblical Touchstone:

You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous. Matthew 5:43-45

Invitation to Prayer:

Bring to your heart and mind someone who can inspire you to act with love and wisdom even when disoriented, in shock, and filled with fear. Imagine what s/he would say to you about the current situation in Paris. What prayers are emerging in your mind, heart, body, and imagination? Pray them now.