let's pray

These two words embody powerful meaning and consequence. Not simply sacred to the church, before meals, or during personal devotions, this phrase is as common and expected as the bright light from above. Bidding safe journeys to visitors, meeting a weakened person, discovering mental turmoil, enduring personal or social struggles all demand intentional gathering of people whose purpose is to pray. No longer an indiviual responsibility, prayer meetings are announced to corporately share problems with each other and with God. Upon knowledge of any type of emotional, mental, physical, or relational burden, people nearby immediately petition for God's deliverance, healing, comfort, and love. Belief of God's power is ever present, with an acute realization of God's ultimate control over our lives which sometimes results in pain, suffering, and afflications. Despite such obtrusions, dependence on God is acknowledged and provides spiritual peace.

Alternatively, prayer is not simply restricted to times of struggle. Thanksgiving for salvation, healing, deliverance, and fulfillment of promises is necessary to the health of the church body and each individual person. By recognizing God's power, we ultimately demonstrate understanding that, unlike human incapacity, God saves, heals, and delivers. Publically rejoicing and offering praise attests to God's character and grace. Furthermore, such proclamation not only reveals God's power, but relieves us of blame, shame, or guilt when struggles do arrive.

I am continuing to learn of the magnitude and effect of prayers. Thankfully, prayer has no limitations or restrictions: available to all, at any time, in any form of communication, under any circumstance. Through prayer, we begin to appreciate who God is and how we are intimately connected to each other and to God.

Amen.