Day of Prayer and Fasting
For the last ten years I have been calling us in LCMC to become more and more a people of prayer. We have a great opportunity to do so this coming Sunday, March 22. I would like us to dedicate this coming Sunday to be a day of prayer and fasting.
What prayer concerns might you have? I have many, here are just a few:
Pray for our government leaders (Romans). Ask the Lord of Heaven and Earth that they would be able to come together to make wise and common sense decisions to protect the vulnerable and ease the financial burden on those affected by all the shutdowns.
Pray for those families who will be challenged to both continue to work to provide an income and at the same time care for their children who will not be in school, pre-school or day care.
Pray for the businesses in our communities who will be drastically affected by the mandatory shutdowns that they might survive, recover and thrive once again.
Pray for those who are working in the health care fields, those who will have direct contact with folks who are showing symptoms of Covid-19.
Pray for our congregations, leaders, and pastors that together we might be light in the darkness and salt to a world that still cries out in pain, hurt, confusion, and frustration.
And for all, in every nation that are suffering illness now because of this pandemic.
Here are some words from the Scriptures that I hang on to in times of trouble:
“Cast all your cares on Him, for He cares about you.” – I Peter 5:8.
“Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.” – Matthew 6 (the whole chapter).
Let today’s trouble be enough for today (one day at a time).
Romans 8:28: In all things, God works for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.
Psalm 23.
And finally, the three most often said words in the Bible: Be Not afraid.
Let us remember that God is faithful. He is still the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Our God is greater than any virus or anything else in this world!
We will get through this, and there is a better day coming!
adapted from Rev. Mark Vander Tuig, Service Coordinator, LCMC.
Peace and Joy! Pastors Michael and Cathy Hanus and the Spirit of Peace Missional Community.