Dear Father-Mother God, open our eyes to see your strength and your power. And open our hearts to feel your presence.

During these troubling times in our world may we be inspired as our founding fathers were by their love of God and love of liberty which lead them to victory over tyranny. Help each one of us to do our part in the battle on terrorism by dissolving with the universal solvent of love, all the little hates in our own lives. War is never your plan for any of your children. War is the result of human will gone mad.

Dear God show us the way to put out the fires of anger, envy, intolerance, mistrust and greed. Then give us the strength and patience to fulfill this deed.

Father, direct and protect all your children on the battlefield. Humble all world leaders to look to a higher authority for solutions to achieve world peace.

History teaches us that the strength of a nation never lies in the size of its army. A nation’s strength lies in its willingness and obedience to serve all mighty God. Make our hearts burn with desire to daily live your golden rule.

This Christmas season, as we celebrate the birth of your son, may we see this as your sign to us that only divine love conquers hate. Help us be gentle beams of living love. With the Lord as our shepherd, we shall not stray.

Mia Wallgren lives in Oak Harbor.