I have prayed to forgive those who have wronged me. I have grown to the point that I don't wish them any ill will; at least, I think I don't, even if the hurt still stings. If I heard that they had suffered, though, would I cry out in desperation on their behalf? Or would I think, with righteous indignation, that God was giving them what they deserved? Ummm . . .
Yesterday we discussed how awful we can feel about world disasters, both natural and human-induced. Am I willing to cry out in desperation for God's mercy on a war-mongering world leader? I don't know if I am spiritually mature enough to do that sincerely. I'm feeling more connected to Jonah than I ever have before.
How far are we willing to go on behalf of those who cause us harm or sorrow?
Certainly we can forgive and pray for those who have wronged us or those who have hurt others. And, as Julie reminds us, we can listen and try to understand the perspectives of those with whom we disagree. But sometimes we also have the opportunity to help them or do something on their behalf such as providing earthquake relief to our enemies in Syria or sending a birthday/anniversary card to a congregation that disagrees with us, maybe even dislikes us. Or helping to rebuild after a war. Our offerings may not always be accepted but if offered in genuine love, I hope they would be acceptable to God.
I would change the prayer at the end to read...
O, God, soften our hearts to forgive those we would call family, friends, and neighbors.
I totally agree with what you said in your first paragraph Ellen.
There is a lot to be said about feeling guilty when we cannot actually do anything to help others than pray of give money gits as Gina said. It makes us uncomfortable but we should look closer to home and find ways of helping others near us.