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In the deeply troubled times in which we live, when each day seems to bring reports of yet another atrocity, of another ecocidal bombing campaign, and the displacement of  hundreds of thousands more people from their homes, it is certainly tempting to avoid the news.

As Christians, however, we are called to not look away from the suffering of others. We are called to keep our eyes open, to remain informed so that we can lament and pray, and seek whatever ways we can to help  alleviate the suffering. For the suffering of another, even when it unfolds on a distant continent, wounds the whole human family. 

Witnessing these wounds can sometimes overwhelm us with despair. When this happens we may need to pull away for a time to protect ourselves. But we can also protect ourselves by praying before we turn to the news, acknowledging our vulnerability and asking for God’s protection. 

I discovered this prayer from Rabbi Irwin Keller and want to share it with you. 

Before Reading the News

My God, the soul you have placed in me is pure and vulnerable. I am afraid that looking at today’s news will be painful. Encircle me in a robe of light so that I can witness the wounds of the world without being wounded myself. Let me learn what I need to know in order to be of my greatest use, without being overwhelmed by despair. I feel your protective light now as I open myself to the world’s suffering and the world’s joys.

Rabbi Irwin Keller also has written a prayer for 

After Reading the News

I am Yours, and all that is in this world is Yours. Today I have read stories and seen images, but my knowledge is incomplete. I don’t know how it all connects. But I know I am connected to everyone; I take joy in their joy; I suffer with their suffering. If there is no role for me to play today then let my learning leave me wiser and better prepared. If there is a role for me to play, let clarity rise up in me to see it, even if that role is a humble one. Lift up the work of my hands, in anything they might do for peace, for justice, for the wholeness of our planet, or for the betterment of my community . . .  

Prayer moves us toward action. After praying in this way, you may feel called to take a small but meaningful step—perhaps by making a donation to a local shelter or food bank, writing a letter to your Member of Parliament, or sending a note of encouragement to someone working for peace or striving to build greater equity and inclusion in our society. The possibilities are many, and even the smallest act offered in compassion can become part of God’s work of healing in the world.

Image by Humphrey M on Unsplash