Prayer for Iran

God of all nations—

I feel moved to pray for the situation in Iran, but I don't know what to say.

The apocalypticist in me wants to pray: Bring this repressive regime down with blood and fire and smoke. Topple it, sweep away the ruins, and let a free democratic society flourish in its place.

But I know that's not the best way.

I want there to be peace in Iran. I don't want protesters beaten or killed or imprisoned or tortured. I want an end to the violent confrontations between police and protesters. I'd like a peaceful resolution to this crisis, though I pray that doesn't come about by the government beating protesters into submission.

I want there to be a credible tally of the votes. I want a more moderate government in power, but maybe that's not the right thing to pray for right now. Right now, there just needs to be a government with public credibility.

I want the protest movement to not splinter. Radical elements seem to have been emboldened to come forward, and that endangers the possibility of a unified, feasible dissent, in addition to giving the conservatives more reason to crack down ruthlessly instead of making concessions.

I want journalists to be able to get reliable information about what's happening. Don't let repression happen out of sight. But on the other hand, let the world have an accurate picture of what's going on, not just rumors.

Be with the journalists—and others—who are trying to let the world see what's happening.
Be with the protesters.
Be with the opposition party and its leadership.
Soften the hearts of the police.
Give a spirit of wisdom to the reigning authorities.
Inspire the leaders of other nations to know how to place appropriate pressure on the Iranian government.

Let peace prevail. Let human rights prevail. Let there be progress.

God is great.
In Christ's name, amen.