by Wilkernet via Pixabay

I’m grateful to Rev. Steve Garnaas-Holmes for permission to reprint his work here. You’ll find it’s goodness in many posts throughout my blog. His faith-full work is a steadfast source of inspiration, challenge, and devotion for me. I cannot recommend it highly enough. You’ll find it at www.unfoldinglight.net. Consider subscribing. – Lisa <>< 

A Prayer for Bathsheba by Steve Garnaas- Holmes

So David sent messengers to get Bathsheba,
and she came to him, and he lay with her. – 2 Samuel 11.4

Let a cry of anguish go up
for those who have been brutalized,
whose trauma is hidden behind sedate words.

May the Holy Breath name
with tenderness and honor
those who have suffered rape and abuse.

Let a spirit of repentance lead us
to confess this crucifixion,
trust betrayed and power abused.

May a song of blessing arise
for those whose pain is belittled,
whose story is silenced.

Let the voice of light speak clearly
the terrors veiled in our texts
and masked by our power.

May the word of truth come home,
and break us of our adoration
of our heroes and their evil secrets.

Let the people’s prayers hold gently
the pain that flows like blood
among those who have been violated.

May the love of God enfold you, Bathsheba,
and all your sisters,
with healing, mercy and grace.
Amen.