written by Cynthia Holder Rich and originally published on ecclesio.com; reposted with permission
A Prayer for Madagascar
God of Peace, Just Savior,
Help us to be servants of those hungry for peace, not division;
Strengthen our resolve to stand with those who clamor for justice;
Awaken us to crimes of violence and greed.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Jesus, in your eyes, children are uniquely precious in God’s Realm.
The children of Madagascar hang on by the slimmest thread.
Thousands upon thousands have died while we looked away.
Give us courage to speak out for the life of children in peril.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
The countryside, which you have blessed with untold wonders and unique beauty,
Has held interest, mostly, for those who would rape this rich land and profit from its mineral bounty.
Give us the words to advocate for the protection of your creation.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Righteous God, leaders of the church in Madagascar
Those whom you have called and equipped for ministry
Are under persecution, silenced, and imprisoned.
Give us strength to stand with the persecuted church.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Loving God, as international leaders take their time
Calculating geopolitical strategies
And discerning who might get what from any plan put forth
The losses – of jobs, health, life and dignity – pile up
On the streets of Madagascar’s cities.
Let us find our voices to speak for those who have no voice.
Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Forgive us our failures, our silence, our ignorance.
Give us strength to rise and bring your word of peace with justice.
Call us to make a difference for those who suffer.
Empower us to be agents of your resurrection and compassion in this world.
Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Put your prayer into action by advocating for democracy for Madagascar.