Sometimes, when we’re so overwhelmed by events that we cannot find the words to express the many emotions we experience throughout the day, it’s good and acceptable to consult the wisdom of those who came before us. Consider King David, a man after Adonai’s own heart, who wrote down his words and organized them into the prayers we can access today.

Many are taught the freedom of expression that comes when speaking with Adonai, and yes, it does exist. But what many are not taught is the awesome benefit of praying “the prayers” as they are recorded in the Bible and elsewhere. Imagine, people all across the world saying the same words at the same time. “But how can we actually be praying them at the same time unless we coordinated beforehand?” you ask.

Because Adonai is outside of time. Shabbat Shalom to those seeking rest and peace.

Avinu Shebashamayim

“Avinu Shebashamayim, Rock and Redeemer of Israel

Bless the State of Israel, the start of flowering of Redemption.

Shield it with Your love; spread over it the shelter of Your peace

Guide its leaders and advisors with Your light and Your truth.

Establish for them Your good counsel.

Strengthen the hands of the defenders of our Holy Land

Cause them to inherit, our G-d, deliverance

Place the crown of victory upon them

Give the land peace, and everlasting joy to its inhabitants

And visit all our Brethren of the house of Israel,

in all the lands where they are scattered,

and bring them rapidly to Zion, Your city,

and to Jerusalem, where Your name lives,

as it says in the Torah of Moses, Your servant:

‘Even if your dwelling is at the end of the sky,

G-d will congregate you from there, and bring you from there,

and will bring you toward the land that Your forefathers inherited

and you will inherit it and G-d shall benefit you

and multiply your numbers greater than your forefathers.

Then the LORD your G-d will open up your heart

and the hearts of your offspring to love the LORD your G-d

with all your heart and soul, in order that you may live.’

Unify our hearts to love and worship Your name and to keep all that is in Your Torah,

and send us the son of David, the Messiah of Your justice,

to redeem those who wait for Your salvation.

Appear with the glory and the pride of Your strength,

in front of all the inhabitants of the Universe,

and all those who have breath will say:

The G-d of Israel is the King,

and He reigns over everything.

Amen, forever.”

(Courtesy of Sefaria)