God has said: “Fear not – when you pass through the waters I will be with you.  When you walk through the fire you will not be consumed.  You are mine.  You are precious to me.”

God promises to help us and hold us – always.

In that spirit we pray:

God whose days are without end, whose mercies cannot be counted, we have once again been awakened to the fragility of human life. We are at a complete loss and words cannot convey our concern and the deep pain we feel for our brothers and sisters who have suffered and whose lives are forever changed by the power of the earthquake in Japan, and the fury and destruction of the tsunami that followed.

God of earthquake, wind and fire; God of help, hope and compassion: we look to you.  Hear our prayers this day.

With the boldness of children we ask you to be with and protect all who will bring aid, rescue, and support.  In your powerful hands, hold, preserve and protect those who have survived this disaster. Bring swift help and healing for the injured. Grant your holy rest and eternal peace to the dying and comfort those who mourn.

Loving God, even as we are numbed by the magnitude of what has happened, we push aside any temptation to blame you.  We know that all creation is precious to you, and you are aware of even the smallest bird that falls from the sky.  You keep your promises and we are assured you will not dismiss our prayers or ignore your beloved people.  Because we believe that nothing can ever separate us from your love, we entrust our bruised and broken world – all of creation to your amazing grace.

God of each of us and all of us; God known to us by many names, accept our prayers, praise and thanksgiving – for You alone are our hope now and forever and ever.  Amen