Eternal Moments: A Prayer for Umpqua

Thunder water, that is the meaning of the name Umpqua. It's the noise water makes as it rushes through the canyon and over the rocks.

Loud. Forceful. Deafening.

Shouting is the only way one can be heard.

Yesterday we had another shooting.
More victims.
More brokenhearted families.

More shouting.

At least for today let's stop the deafening, loud, and forceful thunderwater.

At least for today, let's stop the noise.

At least for today, let's stop the arguing.

Today, no matter our politics. No matter our proclivity. No matter our problem-solving--

Let's, for today, allow the Lord to quiet our fear.

Let's, for today, give the Lord reign over our anger.

Let's, for today, join with other believers.

Let's, for today, realize, we are unified in our sadness.

Let's, for today, allow him who settles the sea to lead us to the still water.

Let's, for today, pray.

Today, let's unite in prayer.

Father,

Make me lie down. I want to abide in you.
Lead me to your quiet place where the water is still.
Refresh my soul so I can pray for the hurting families.

Guide my prayers for those who are walking through the dark valley.

Let the hurting families and this community know that you are with them to comfort and protect. That you will supply them with your love, compassion, and care.

In the midst of this tragedy Lord stay close to those who are grieving. Stay so close they can see evidence of your hand, heart, and hear your voice.

Come Holy Spirit come.

Bring your living water to Umpqua.

Amen

The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
    He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
   he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
    for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk
    through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
    for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
    they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me
    in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
    my cup overflows.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me
    all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
    forever.