Easter 24

Lord and God,

We say Greatly have they afflicted you, Israel. Nations have torn you to pieces, our own people have sinned against you, dividing you. Love of the gods of the nations plunged you again into slavery. Yet those who tend you, whether Jew or Gentile, will pass away as grass withers.

But our folly, O God, you turn to blessing. For though we turned away to the gods of the nations, you have in Christ brought the nations to the God of Israel. You have given them your Spirit and repentance that leads to life. You are reconciling your people, and all flesh through them, by the one man Jesus Christ. May we have peace with you and all men through him, and may he turn our every sin and tragedy to the blessing of the Lord.