"Do to others whatever you would have them do to you." Jesus Christ, Matthew 22:39
"That which is distasteful to you do not do to your fellow." Rabbi Hillel, the Talmud
"None of you [truly] believe until he wishes for his brother what he wishes for himself." Muhammad, the Hadith
On this Sunday as I break my fast in honor of the Resurrection, I recall that despite that saving event there is still much conflict among the worlds' peoples. Some of this violence is perpetuated in the name of religion, yet most of the world's religious traditions hold some form of The Golden Rule as an important teaching. I pray that my fellow Christians, in the spirit of the document Nostra Aetate from Second Vatican Council, will "recognize, preserve and promote the good things, spiritual and moral, as well as the socio-cultural values found among these men [and women]" of the world's religions. I pray that Christians everywhere can enjoy religious freedom and worship as their conscience guides them. I pray that Jews, who this weekend celebrate the joyous occasion of Purim and their salvation from extermination centuries ago,
O God, you are the source of life and peace.
Praised be your name forever.
We know it is you who turn our minds to thoughts of peace.
Hear our prayer in this time of crisis.
Your power changes hearts.
Muslims, Christians and Jews remember, and profoundly affirm,
that they are followers of the one God,
Children of Abraham, brothers and sisters;
enemies begin to speak to one another;
those who were estranged join hands in friendship;
nations seek the way of peace together.
Strengthen our resolve to give witness to these
truths by the way we live.
Give to us:
Understanding that puts an end to strife;
Mercy that quenches hatred, and
Forgiveness that overcomes vengeance.
Empower all people to live in your law of love.
Amen.
Praised be your name forever.
We know it is you who turn our minds to thoughts of peace.
Hear our prayer in this time of crisis.
Your power changes hearts.
Muslims, Christians and Jews remember, and profoundly affirm,
that they are followers of the one God,
Children of Abraham, brothers and sisters;
enemies begin to speak to one another;
those who were estranged join hands in friendship;
nations seek the way of peace together.
Strengthen our resolve to give witness to these
truths by the way we live.
Give to us:
Understanding that puts an end to strife;
Mercy that quenches hatred, and
Forgiveness that overcomes vengeance.
Empower all people to live in your law of love.
Amen.
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