Rabbi Joseph R. Black – Temple
Emanuel – Denver, CO
Our God and God of all people -
God of the Left and God of the Right;
God of the Rich and God of the Poor;
God of the Involved and God of the Indifferent;
God of the believers, and God of those who have no God:
We come together in a place and time when our nation is sharply
divided. Over the last days, weeks, months and years, we have watched as two
distinct narratives have played out in and eaten away at
the political, social, spiritual and moral character of our country. Wounds
have been opened and healing seems a distant goal. As each new day dawns, the
level of vitriol and viciousness increases in our national discourse.
At this time of turmoil, we in Colorado – and especially in this sacred chamber - have an opportunity – indeed a responsibility - to rise above the cacophony, clamor and chaos in our nation’s capital and strive to find common ground here at home - even as we recognize our differences.
God - help us to see that disagreement need not lead to disorder. You have created us as unique individuals with the capacity to formulate opinions, argue forcefully for them and act upon our values.
May any conflict that might arise during deliberation be based on principle, not personality; respect, not recrimination; and passion, not politics.
Bless this chamber, God - and all who labor here: those elected to serve and those who support them – the aides, advisors, clerks, bailiffs and all who seek to make a difference. May our disagreements serve to strengthen our great State of Colorado – and may we find Your presence in every moment.
And let us say, AMEN
I have followed your posts for years. Met you at various congregations over the years. Always, you are an inspiration. Your thought process with the written word is truly appreciated and admired. Thank you for this beautiful prayer in CO. I hope to share it and hope your words inspire many all across our country. Thank you for all you do.
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