John 16:33 “I have said this to you, so that in me you may have peace. In the world you face persecution. But take courage; I have conquered the world!”

You spoke, O Jesus, of such powerful hope: a real peace for us all above and beyond what goes on in the world. I need that today.

And then, when I am in touch with Your gracious living water, within me, let me pray. Let me simply pray for peace in and around the Ukraine. Let me pray with confidence in the things You plan to do. Let me pray with power that can move mountains of trouble and terror. Let me pray with others who are also in on this holy conversation. Let me pray frequently. Let me pray secretly. Let me pray with and without words. Let me pray with and without being prompted by others to pray. Let me pray, Lord Jesus, today. Amen.

Jeremiah 8:15 We look for peace, but find no good,
for a time of healing, but there is terror instead.

God of grace and glory, at a time when Jeremiah felt his people were doomed, he called out, he warned, he lamented. They spoke “peace, peace” when there was no peace. Today I do remember, I do appreciate the peace I enjoy; and I know how restless and violent the world still is, Lord.

Perhaps, Mighty One, amid the ceremony and remembering I do today, You may inspire me to be a sign of peace among my family and friends. Teach me more about standing for peace in my nation. Teach me more about non-violent communication. Teach me more about respect for peoples and nations that are not my own. Teach me the lessons of the scripture story today. In the name of Jesus – I remember how He won His victory over evil. Amen.

Jeremiah 6:14

They have treated the wound of my people carelessly,
saying, “Peace, peace,”
when there is no peace.

O God of love, O King of peace, this day I turn to You. On this United Nations International Day of Peace, I pray for peace. Let my prayer be an ongoing conversation with You. Let us talk about peace among nations and peoples, peace in locations where conflict has gone on for decades or centuries, peace among victims and perpetrators, peace in families that have fought and among neighbours who don’t speak, peace within me and within others we need more serenity or more fellowship with You, my God and King.

What is peace, Spirit of truth? And what makes for peace? On this beautiful, last full day of summer, all can seem so peaceful around me. Allow me to see something through Your eyes, some place that I can pray for, and build peace. And remind me, Lord, that ‘peace, like war, is waged.’ Set me to work. Amen.