Today's Meditation
The first Thursday of May has been designated as our National Day of Prayer.
Read 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18:
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
This passage in the letter to the Thessalonian Church is a reminder for all of us that regardless of our immediate circumstances there is always hope, there is always something for which to rejoice, and there is much to be thankful for.
Preparing for the National Day of Prayer in Ireland which occurred on Palm Sunday this year, The Presbyterian Church leaders in Ireland wrote the following;
God loves the world and everyone in it. We will pray for those who are sick, and those feeling fearful; we will pray for those who have been bereaved and those who are isolated and alone. We will pray for our healthcare professionals, delivery drivers, essential workers and all who continue to work on the frontline. We will pray for, and with those in our communities, who are fearful about their employment and for those reaching out to provide food and shelter. We will pray for our families and friends, neighbours and civic, business and political leaders for the inevitable challenges that will arise in the coming days. We also remember those across our world who are similarly suffering. We pray for those working hard to produce new treatments and vaccines.
Though we cannot meet as the gathered Church, we will end the hour united in prayer, asking for the Lord’s healing touch on our land and all its people. All are invited to pray, regardless of where they are in their own journey of faith, even if they have never prayed before. At this critical moment we will bring this land and our world before our loving God in prayer.
I offer these words to you because I couldn't have phrased it any better. Spend some time today in prayer for all those requests above. Add your personal prayers in light of the passage - "rejoice always...giving thanks to God in all circumstances."
Blessings to you, my friends!
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