Gracious Lord, protect us from becoming so distraught by the sin and evil in this world that we believe prayer is ineffective. Restrain us from growing so accustomed to such wickedness that we accept it as normal. Instead, fill us with righteous anger toward it and a holy discernment that seeks to direct our principles and practices with godly wisdom. Guard our hearts and minds from a fear that paralyzes us with cowardice. Lead us as we minister to victims with love, mercy, and compassion, even as you fill them with your Spirit’s comfort, hope, and strength. Lord hear our prayer, in Christ’s holy name. Amen.