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Last week, roused by the heartbreaking violence in Israel, I wrote that emulating Jesus' response to the crowd intent on stoning a woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-11) could restore inner peace.  This week, as violence in Israel and the occupied territories escalates, I'm aware the deeper work may be recognizing that we, too, are stone throwers. 

If peace on earth truly begins with me, then my work is using the sacred spaciousness of inner peace to transform any violence brewing in my own mind or heart.

This prayer, by Spiritual Passages' Rev. Scott Awbrey is a powerful tool for beginning the work: 

"Infinite Presence, I mend my wounded soul by releasing the feelings that bound me to wrongdoing. I become still, breathe deeply, and feel the release of forgiveness. Now, I vibrate at a higher frequency, abide in the love of God,  and take action in ways of peace, compassion, justice, and goodness. I pray this harmless way of being purifies the hearts of those in the midst of conflict. Thank you, God, forever. Amen."

To subscribe to Rev. Scott's newsletter, Spiritual Reflections, visit spiritualpassages.org.