O God, why do you cast us off for ever? Why does your anger smoke against the sheep of your pasture? Remember your congregation, which you acquired long ago, which you redeemed to be the tribe of your heritage. Remember Mount Zion, where you came to dwell. Direct your steps to the perpetual ruins;the enemy has destroyed everything in the sanctuary. (Psalm 74:1-3)

A synagogue is destroyed. A poor rural church is arsoned. An entire neighborhood is bombed. Children die. Mothers mourn. Fathers curse. Many cry for vengeance.

We can easily feel cast off and far from God. We may in our grief make choices that take us even farther from God.

Our hopes are in ruin. Our hearts are broken. Our faith is shaken. O God, direct your steps to the perpetual ruin of all that is separated from you. Restore us to wholeness.