To Diminish Our Appetite for Violence
Patient Lord,
Our culture seems to be infatuated with an excess of horror, gore, and violence, always raising the shock levels of each and normalizing what in the past was considered extremely disturbing. In addition to these unhealthy cravings, we often see the line between good and evil blurred in movies and stories. What is sinister and even satanic is celebrated. The villain is the victor, while the hero is often vilified and shamed.
Such interests aren’t innocent. They are not harmless. They shape how we think and act. Yet, in the midst of all of these influences, we still act surprised that people could ever actually commit the heinous and horrifying crimes that fill our real-life headlines.
Forgive us, Lord. Cure our bloodthirsty lust and curb our cravings for cruelty. Redirect our entertainment interests to whatever is right, pure, noble, and good. Fill us with what encourages and uplifts. Inspire us to demonstrate acts of kindness and generosity toward our neighbor. Use us as believers to pave the way in positively influencing others as we counter the darkness and let our light shine.
In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.