Praying together brings us together. When we gather in Christian community, God is with us, and suddenly we are not separate individuals but one in Jesus’ name.

For me, the most powerful part of our worship service is the prayer time when we begin by sharing joys (causes for thanksgiving to God) and concerns (specific requests for God’s presence and power). The congregation so firmly believes in the power of intercessory prayer that even visitors sometimes raise their hands to share what is heavy on their hearts so that the gathered community can offer prayers.

On any given week, there will be persons lifted up who are ill, who must face the death of a loved one, or who are dealing with depression. No request is unimportant. All requests for prayers are lifted up as the community prays together.

In sharing our lives, we not only know more about each other, but we are bonded by the belief that God hears our prayers and responds. Even when the outcome is not what we want, we trust in God.

There is sometimes a palpable presence of Jesus among us. Other times, it is more like a warm feeling of being surrounded in love and understanding. But there is never any doubt that the risen Lord stands among us.

A good example is the image of hot coals that when gathered together continue to provide warmth. Separate the coals and they cool. Even the most independent of us benefits from community. God didn’t mean for us to go it alone.

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As you journey in life, let God walk with You. Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe that He will never leave your side. He will continue to love you and deal bountifully with you.

As I go to sleep, I’ll think of my family, friends, and departed loved ones.
My prayers are with you and your family. God bless you always. :)

Good Night! :)

Thank You, Lord, for holding my hand as I take the next step in my journey forward.
I trust in You. :) 

My heart was broken, Lord, but you fixed it. As I learn to depend on You, give me the same thing You gave Your servant David: Strength and a Song.

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.
— Psalm 147:3

Thank You Lord for Your Healing presence. :)

 

Prayer is a participation in willing God’s will. While God’s ultimate will cannot be thwarted, the strategy God uses to reach that Goal may be infinitely variable. The prayers of committed people become part of this cosmic reality God has to work with. God can use them to “tip the balance” and change the shape of distorted reality in our world.

-Marjorie J. Thompson
 Soul Feast: An invitation to the Christian Spiritual Life