Recent events in Israel and Palestine have seized our attention in the past week. The violence, images, descriptions, and then more violence are almost impossible to bear. Who can make sense of this?

So here we are again. Stunned. Fighting back sadness and anger with tears.

We will have a longer statement soon, but for now, we need to lament, pray, and seek the tear-stained face of Jesus—our savior and shepherd.

Pray for shalom—real peace—that is deeper than merely a lack of conflict. Gather together and remember to pray in your small groups, prayer meetings, and in your worship services.

Lord, have mercy. Christ, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

Dr. Scott W. Sunquist, President of Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, is author of the “Attentiveness” blog. He welcomes comments, responses, and good ideas.