Once again (the second time in two weeks) that familiar phrase “Our thoughts and prayers are with you” has occupied space on the internet, in newspapers and on TV. I have always wondered what effect, if any, the phrase held in light of natural disasters or terrible events like mass shootings.
The question is: What do we think God should/could do in these situations. Do we believe in a God who might selectively intervene in the affairs of humankind and the laws of nature? Or are we trying to pass the responsibility for horrible events off to God? What then is prayer?
I thought it appropriate for us to reflect on this too common phrase in place of this week’s scripture readings. Perhaps there is something hypocritical about praying for God to solve a problem that people themselves are unwilling to resolve. For example,
in the United States there is the knowledge of how to stop mass murders but no political will to create appropriate legislation and/or fund mental health initiatives. Unfortunately, thoughts and prayers do not seem to doing it.
Obviously the situation is not yet as dire in Canada as in the United States. But often I think—just give us some time.
That phrase “our thoughts and prayers are with you” was used in Canada, for example, in response to the Quebec Mosque shooting and the New Brunswick mass murder, and in response to the horrific fires and flooding in British Columbia last fall.
The question is: What do we think God should/could do in these situations? Do we believe in a God who might selectively intervene in the affairs of humankind and the laws of nature? Or are we trying to pass the responsibility for horrible events off to God? What then is prayer?
I have come to understand that prayer is attentiveness; it asks us to think clearly. Prayer is silence; something to be, not something to do. Prayer is about us, not about God. Along with this kind of prayer I believe we are called to action—to do what we know is right. We ought not to lose our direction in a muddle of thoughts and prayers. Our actions need to express our love of God and love of neighbour.
For example, the problem of too many guns won’t be solved by more guns. Part of the mourning process must involve direct political action, otherwise, the dead are not properly mourned.
Therefore we must exercise our right to vote, and to vote for representatives and leaders who will be courageous, dedicated to peace and care for all people and creation.