Syria

I don't understand how any violent action by the USA or any other power could achieve anything in Syria other than escalating the already appalling situation there.

I also don't understand how it is more morally acceptable to kill people by cruse missiles than by chemical methods. Talk of swift 'surgical' strikes may sound clean, even healing, but isn't such language only using euphemism to disguise the true horror?

Perhaps I am naive. I certainly don't pretend to understand the complexities of Syrian politics or the balance of power in the wider region of the Middle East. I do know that men, women and children are going through hell and need all the humanitarian help that the international community can give. 

Oxfam is sponsoring a petition 'Don't let Syria Down' which urges President Obama, President Putin and other world leaders to use their political weight to push for peace talks now and help get all parties to the Syria conflict around the table to find a solution to the escalating crisis which is causing such dreadful suffering to so many. If you want to sign the petition you can do it here. Or you can support organisations bringing relief aid such as the Red Cross or Save the Children or many other reputable charities.

If you pray, you may find this prayer helpful, from the Church of England website.

PRAYER FOR PEACE IN SYRIA

Spirit of wisdom and grace,

the power of truth and judgement;

we pray for all who are working for peace

in the tangled conflict of Syria today.

For international leaders holding a thread of control,

for the politicians holding a thread of power,

for the religious leaders holding a thread of authority,

for the fighters holding a thread of influence,

and the citizens clinging to a thread of hope.

Bring unity through the untangled order of justice.

Bring reconciliation through truthful dialogue.

Bring new life through patient diplomacy,

determined mediation and courageous peace-making.

We pray in the name of Christ,

our source of inspiration and confidence. Amen.

Image Credit: Oxfam International on Flickr, CC License