Father God, we pray for all those affected by the recent terrorist attacks in Norway. We pray for the innocent people who were injured as well as the family and friends of all who were killed. The whole nation suffers with them, Lord; the whole world. We ask that you will be with the emergency workers as they deal with the carnage, assist police and intelligence officers as they seek out those responsible. Grant politicians and other decision makers wisdom to respond appropriately. Comfort all those who have had their sense of security shattered by these attacks and empower all of us to overcome hatred and violence wherever we encounter them. We ask all of this in the name of your beloved Son, Amen.


1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2He makes me lie down in green pastures.
  He leads me beside still waters.
3 He restores my soul.
   He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
   I will fear no evil, for you are with me;
   your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
   you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life,
   and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
Psalm 23 – English Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)
2 Samuel 3:22-39 - Acts 16:16-24 - Mark 6:47-56