Holy One of blessing,
we pray for the soldiers
who are called to defend the people of Israel.
Keep them safe. When they are weary
give them strength.
When they are scared give them courage.
May they find strength and faith in the days ahead.
Holy One of blessing,
we pray for the people of Israel
who long to live under your canopy of peace.
Keep them safe. When they are threatened
protect them from harm.
When they are wounded and bereaved
grant them healing and comfort.
May they find strength and courage in the days ahead.
May our voices carry prayers of hope
that the people of Israel know that they are not alone.
Dear God,
give us strength
and know that there is nothing more sacred than peace.
Grant us dear God,
Faith. Courage. Wisdom.
Rabbi Karyn D. Kedar is the senior rabbi of Congregation B'nai Jehoshua Beth Elohim in Deerfield, IL.
