God,
By now, the tragedy is well known. Dozens of Palestinians in Gaza were killed by Israeli fire at the border separating the two territories.
Some were crossing illegally. Others were protesting.
Decide between the narratives, God. There is only one truth, however nuanced.
There may be guilt widely spread. There may be ample justification.
But there is blood. And the blood draws attention to another tragedy: the situation itself.
Gaza is suffering. God, give them hope.
But give them more. Give them consistent electricity. Give them clean water. Give them movement.
Egypt has opened its border with Gaza to allow some flow of people and goods, throughout Ramadan.
But afterwards, God? What future with Egypt? What future with Israel? What future with the West Bank?
What future at all?
Give wisdom to all. There are security threats. There are humanitarian concerns. There are issues of basic dignity.
It is likely the protests at the border will continue. It is likely that some will grow increasingly desperate. Some of these will give up. Some of these will act out.
Where there is power, let it serve humbly. Where there is need, answer it graciously.
God, Gaza is just part of a larger, intractable struggle. Unstuck it.
Bring peace to the people on all sides of divide. Help Egypt be a friend to many.
Amen.
