As we, your people, gather with wearied hearts, O Lord, let prayers be now uplifted for peace to be restored. May healing and repentance in every land be known, as sword is turned to plowshare and seeds of trust are sown. The cries of desperation, the orphan in distress, instill in us a longing that words cannot express. Yet, as the Spirit's presence within each heart is stirred, we find new strength and courage in God's unfailing Word. The prophet voices call us to seek that promised day when hatred and oppression at last are swept away. No darkness will surround us; in light we dwell secure. God's purpose is accomplished when peace and love endure.