Prayer for Refugees

Creator God,
open our eyes so we can see you in the eyes of our refugee

sisters and brothers, eyes downcast
for having lived so long

in the shadows of violence and dank detention cells,
eyes lifted looking for
    the Christ light in us.

Refugee God,
whose family fled to Egypt to escape Herod's genocide
unclench our fisted hearts
so we may extend our arms

    to give your welcome.

Compassionate God,
who has come to dwell among us,
open our ears to hear the cries of your children,

being pulled from their parents,
led to tent cities, 

caged
or sold into adoption
    move us beyond tears.

God of Justice,
who crosses all boundaries,
give us courage to resist,

to say NO 

to all that legislates injustice

breaks international laws

robs people of their dignity

drops them on a city side walk without

   food or family.

Give us the strength to stand 

for your inclusive love,
which knows no boundaries.
Strengthen our faith to believe,
another world is necessary
    and possible and begins with us.