Nighttime view of the United States Capitol building reflecting on the water, used as the header image for the poem “A Prayer for a Divided Nation.”

A Prayer for a Divided Nation – A Poem by David Ritter

“A Prayer for a Divided Nation” was written in the wake of the January 6th, 2021 unrest in Washington, DC. In this heartfelt prayer, the poet wrestles with fear, anger, and grief over a country in turmoil, asking God for mercy, guidance, and healing for a deeply divided nation.

A Prayer for a Divided Nation

Our Father in heaven, is how we begin,
when we pray for your grace, and forgiveness of sin,
My country’s in turmoil, it’s in a great mess,
while those causing evil, expect You to bless.

2020 was dreadful, a most difficult year,
of sickness and dying, and eternal fear.
I tremble with anger, at what my eyes see,
as conditioned zombies, roam the land of the free.

Resentments are born, from lies that are cast,
and a country divided, can surely not last.
If we disagree, then we argue and fight,
and forget that might, doesn’t always make right.

Fellow countrymen gather, in a turbulent crowd,
and show to the world, we’re obnoxious and loud.
Deep hatred is rooted, and the others to blame,
Above all the sorrow, I feel a deep shame.

Between the two sides, that don’t get along,
how can I choose, so that I might belong?
I’ll pray for God’s guidance, His mercy and grace,
and pray that my country, His love will embrace,

David Ritter

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5 comments

  1. Well said David. I’m up in Canada but sure seen the turmoil down your way. Hope and pray for a good outcome in the next short while.

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