Written by Kathleen Keefer and Cheri Harper, Presbyterian Women in the Presbyterian Church
Although we may say our aim is to eliminate violence against women, as we enact more laws to punish perpetrators and construct more shelters to house victims, the truth is that violence against women will never end until we learn to build better people. To teach the next generation to break the cycle of violence, we must help children come to grips with their emotions, so they don’t become abusers who lash out in anger or fear. We must instill in our children a sense of self-worth, so they are not vulnerable to victimization. These lessons start in homes and in faith-based communities where children learn from role models who love each other, treat all children with kindness, and demonstrate genuine respect for all of God’s creation. We love because God first loved us. [1] Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God. [2]
Let us pray together: Awesome Creator God, we give you thanks for all you have given us, especially the gift of love. We are constantly challenged by the stresses of our world, and it is of our own doing. Give us the strength to see beyond the struggles of our days and the yearning of our hearts, to see your glory alive in others. Calm the anger and alleviate the fears of perpetrators of violence so they do not abuse others. Envelop victims of violence in your loving arms. Teach us how to become living examples of the love of Christ, demonstrating the protection and grace that our Savior so generously offers to all.