Our God and God of all peoples.
God of the tired, God of the energized
God of the afflicted and God of the secure
God of the complacent and God of the enraged
We are in pain, O God.
Last Saturday morning in Colleyville, TX, a lone gunman who had been radicalized by ancient hatred and modern conspiracy theories held the rabbi and three members of Beth Israel Congregation hostage. For a horrific 12 hours, their lives were in the balance. Thankfully, due to the bravery and training of Rabbi Charlie Cytron-Walker and the diligence, professionalism and hard work of local and national law enforcement, all hostages were freed, and the terrorist threat was eliminated.
When news of their release became public, a collective sigh of relief could be heard from all corners of the world. Lives were spared. Heroes emerged and the specter of yet another potential massacre of innocents was unrealized.
And yet, despite the ending for which we all prayed, damage was done. We here in Colorado know all too well the heavy price we pay when disturbed individuals who seek to rid themselves of their own demons let loose their hatred with bullets and brutality. Knowing as we do, the toll that violence demands from victims and innocents alike, we are especially vulnerable to trauma.
Around the globe, synagogues, mosques, houses of worship and even halls of governance like this are becoming more and more fortress-like. We know that hatred and intolerance are on the rise. Healthy discourse is increasingly replaced by talking points and diatribes. And when dialogue is destroyed, danger lurks in the shadows. There are many eager to capitalize on our inability to communicate and use violence to achieve their goals.
This sacred chamber was designed to provide a space for vigorous and earnest debate, disagreement, and compromise. Increasingly, we have seen the rise of disrespect, aggression and a toxic, take-no-prisoners partisanship that transcends political party and threatens to undermine the very foundation upon which our Democracy was founded.
Those elected to govern must also lead by example.
God, we pray that these legislators who labor on behalf of our Great State of Colorado might endeavor to see the humanity of all - even when they disagree. May they strive to achieve legislative goals by seeking pathways of peace through which they might become exemplars of patience, pathos and partnership.
Words have power.
May we all use them wisely.
AMEN
Rabbi Black, I take such great comfort that you are a leader in our community at large. Your efforts with faith leaders and your leadership to bring comfort to the Jewish community have been evident since the horrific terror that occurred in Colleyville. I want you to know that I am certain that this prayer offered to legislators called them to remember our shared humanity instead of divisive rhetoric. Your words, your actions have power. I am so grateful for your leadership in CO! Know you make a difference and remain grateful! PAGL, Pam
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