When Peaceful Lives are Shattered

When peaceful lives are shattered
by violence in our midst;
when diff'rence ends in bloodshed
and ancient scores persist,
can we escape the horror?
Can we withstand the shock,
when some prey on our welcome
and angry tempers stalk?

When death rules the intentions
of misdirected minds;
when hate's the motivation
and hostile purpose blinds,
we yearn to find the reason -
just why this came to be,
but often roots stay hidden,
their source a mystery.

Our hearts cry out for vengeance
to rectify the crime;
as if our savage answer
could somehow turn back time.
Is what we seek true justice,
or just as Christ would do?
For when we show forgiveness,
our hope, Christ, is in you.

We come to share our anguish
we come to ease our grief.
Can God provide redemption?
Can God grant us relief?
We know God shares our sorrow;
we feel God bear our pain.
In God's love we find healing
our faith is not in vain.

Text (c) Allan Baer, 2007
290 Indian Rd. Kingston ON K7M 1T8
email: ab25@queensu.ca