Sunday, May 15, 2011

Osama: Reprisal or Righteousness?



Dear God,

We depend on our U.S. Armed Forces for defense, but what if soldiers are called upon to balance the scales of justice?

I pray that Navy SEAL Team Six was a channel for your righteousness in the assassination of Osama bin Laden. His grievances and ideology had turned dark. They morphed into hatred as he directed murder and massacre.

Father, this is a prayer of gratitude for our soldiers, for their commitment and sacrifice. And this is a prayer of gratitude for justice done.

Lord Christ, I understand there’s a fine line between vengeance and justice. Hold my heart on the side of justice, not revenge and national swagger. And hold my heart to your radical standards: turn the other cheek, love your enemies, pray for those who persecute you.* I’m convinced that is the preferred channel for your righteousness.

Holy Spirit, use your Church - and use me - as a peacemaker…that fewer will be called to combat. Amen.


* - Matthew 5:30-44