IN RESPONSE TO THE GRENFELL TOWER FIRE

Through a glass darkly the smoke is obscuring 

flames that are burning – hell come upon earth; 

hell made by hands with a human intention – 

housing? entrapment? a prison of death?

People of all faiths cry out in their anguish, 

horror and anger inflamed by their grief; 

others reach out through the fierce conflagration, 

risking their lives just to offer relief.

This is salvation in practical action, 

not some theology – heartless – obscure; 

hands reaching out like the strong hands of Jesus, 

offering love, but can hope be secure?

© Andrew Pratt 15/6/2017
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In response to violence and terrorism in our cities

Hopeless to help in the face of catastrophe,
helpless while watching this picture unfold,
see history repeating with such regularity,
innocents injured while violence takes hold.

Where is the love when our cities are targeted,
common humanity shattered or lost?
How can we love when such hatred is harvested,
offering grace while not counting the cost?

Stir up compassion to heal our communities,

love reaching deep to the centre of loss,

meeting each neighbour in horror and fearfulness,

draw us together through comfort and cross.

© Andrew Pratt 4/6/2017

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