Current holocaust

When I first studied the German holocaust in school, I remember asking my dad how it got so far.  How do you get to a place where you've built buildings to exterminate people? How were six million people killed before anyone went in?

I've been reading about the events in Iraq over the past few months.  The red "n" spray painted across homes and businesses of Christians targeted to be killed is eerily similar to the Star of David marked on Jewish businesses and homes during the days of Hitler.

John reminded me that the US didn't enter the war to save the Jews.  That the US entered WWII because of Pearl Harbor.

With social media, we now get a front seat row of what is happening as it unfolds. But it still leaves us wondering what to do.  It feels powerless. And while many of us on Facebook have adopted the #WeAreN symbol, the show of solidarity doesn't save lives.

What if the "win" isn't about sweeping in and saving the people with military force? (Something I am powerless to do.) What if the "win" is in praying for the hearts of the people who are committing the violence?

This is my prayer...

Dear God,

Please let the persecutors in the lower ranks feel a deep conviction that this is wrong.  Give them the courage to defy orders.

Speak to the persecutors and show them clearly that You are not in this. Let their dreams be troubled. Do not let them sleep peacefully feeling as if they are carrying out your will. Open their eyes.

Create dissension so that plans are ineffective.

Let them know clearly that what they are doing is wrong and give them the courage to do right. Call them. 

For those who have watched their neighbors and families killed, lead them. Give them the courage to know what to do. Do not let them be paralyzed with fear.

For those fleeing, provide for them. Lead them to a safe place.

Give courage in the face of terror. Allow those who would speak out to speak out. Give instructions on how to act wisely and specifically for the greatest effect.

And for those of us watching this unfold a half a world away, remind us to pray.  Give us a way to help. 

- Cathy

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First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Socialist.

Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Trade Unionist.

Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Jew.

Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.

-  Martin Niemöller