Prayer of Lament

On the one year anniversary of Hamas’ violent incursion into Israel, and Israel’s violent response against Palestinians in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon, FUM General Secretary Kelly Kellum has been asked to participate in a service of lament sponsored by Churches for Middle East Peace. This state of ongoing war affects us all, but most especially our friends—students, teachers, and staff—at Ramallah Friends School, who have been living with uncertainty, an ever-increasing military presence, aerial bombardment, and escalating settler violence for the past year.

In commemoration and sorrow, we want to share with the entire FUM community the prayer that Kelly will be offering at the ecumenical service of lament:‍

‍We gather in this valley of the shadows of death and ask this ancient question, “O God, where are You?” The cries of the broken rise before You, lamenting in the streets of Palestine, where sorrow walks hand in hand with despair. “How long, O Lord?” (Psalm 13) We echo the words of the psalmists: “Why do You stand far off? Why do You hide Yourself in times of trouble?.” (Psalm 10:1)  

In the ruins, mothers weep for their children, fathers search for hope amidst the ashes, the young raise their fists in protest and anger, and the innocent suffer under the weight of injustice.  

We hear the call of the prophets: “Let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.” (Amos 5:24). O Lord, ignite the flames of hope where there is despair. “Comfort, comfort thy people, speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and proclaim to her that her suffering is complete.” (Isaiah 40:1-2) We plead for an end to this relentless cycle of violence. We ask you to tender the hearts of all who are determined to make war. We pray for peace to settle upon this fractured Holy Land.  

Grant us the courage to stand for the oppressed, cry for those who have run out of tears, and the moral courage to speak the truth in the face of hatred. May our hearts be unyielding in the pursuit of justice. Draw near, that we might find strength in your presence. Settle our restless weary spirits. Quiet us, so we may hear once more your still small voice saying, “I am with you, always…” (Matthew 28:20).  

Amen.