by Pat Severin

To say I’m sad is not enough,
For I’m consumed with grief.  
I’ve seen Ukraine’s atrocities. 
I’m asking for relief!

With such enduring horrors, Lord,
Their plight’s too much to take.
To merely sympathize with them 
Has made my poor heart ache.

That’s why I’m feeling helpless, Lord,
These pictures break my heart. 
The people of Ukraine have been
Completely torn apart.

Their towns are all in ruins now,
Dead bodies in the street.
We’re told some Russian soldiers left,
But doubt this is retreat.

Ukraine was lush and beautiful.
Now grey replaces green.
Horrific devastation, Lord!
Each day’s the worst I’ve seen!

But that’s the stark reality 
These citizens are facing. 
Ukraine’s reduced to rubble, Lord,
Putin’s plaything!

Who is this man
Whose warped idea of power
Is killing and destroying all,
Whose goal is to devour?

Lord, You can put an end to this, 
And families reunited,
Get shattered structures built again,
Make green what now is blighted.

For You it’s not too much to ask, 
You’re always ever there.
And so, I’m praying fervently
For all Your love and care.

Please send the people of Ukraine                                                                                                                                  The strength to end this war
So life can be as it once was  
And peace can be restored! Amen                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

Pat Severin is retired Christian school teacher who has served her Lord in many ways. These include school, church and teen ministry and her current personal ministry, creating cards that include her original poems of encouragement. These she sends out weekly to those going through difficult medical issues. She contributes regularly to her online blog, Poetically Speaking, which she began in 2008, and has self-published a number of poetry collections.