RW 248, “Let Streams of Living Justice”
Devotion
On this day in 1945, the United States dropped the first atomic bomb on Hiroshima, Japan. Approximately 140,000 people died from the bomb on that day and in the weeks following. A survivor of that holocaust, Miyoko Matsubara, shares these words: “Nuclear weapons are manufactured by human beings. War is started by us human beings, too. Peace begins when we share our sufferings with each other. We must all strive to overcome hatred and learn to love one another.”
There is still evidence today that “the hungry’s hands are pleading” and that “ancient vengeance” can control us. But Gustav Holst’s moving melody and William Whitla’s stirring words make this hymn one that can speak to the world’s need for people of peace and justice.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, “inscribe our hearts with justice” and make us channels of your peace. Amen.