A prayer following the Boston Marathon bombings
Loving God, you sent Jesus into the world as one of us, and he suffered as we do. Help us to realize that you are with us at all times and in all things and that your loving grace enfolds us for eternity. For all who are weary and anxious this day, surround them with your care, protect them by your loving might and permit them once more to know peace and safety. Turn the hearts of the violent from the way of evil. May the barriers that divide us crumble, suspicions disappear and hatreds cease. Help us in our confusion, and guide our actions. Heal the hurt, console the bereaved and afflicted, protect the innocent and helpless and deliver all who have been harmed. May we live in justice and peace. We ask all this in the name of Jesus, our brother. Amen.
(Based on prayers in the Pastoral Care edition of Evangelical Lutheran Worship)