May 6, 2010

National Day of Prayer

Today is the National Day of Prayer, an annual day of observance when Americans are asked to turn to God in prayer and meditation.

There is always so much to pray for, so many things bigger than us and so much evidence that this world is broken. (Have you watched the news lately?) It can be overwhelming.

Yesterday I listened to dozens of people on the radio sharing their prayers for our nation as we prepared to observe this day. I was moved and uplifted by the knowledge that our prayers aren't alone; we are joined by the hearts and thoughts of others as they pray for our country and its people.

Here's what's on my heart today:

  • the health and well-being of our families and loved ones
  • the healing of those who are sick or hurting
  • the relief efforts in the Gulf, Nashville and Haiti
  • the safety of our nation from threats here and abroad
  • the safety of our troops and the peace of their families here at home
  • the uplifting of those who have lost jobs or homes
  • the encouragement of people who are in the "waiting room" of life, whether for a job or a baby or for anything else that seems impossible to find
I love that we have a National Day of Prayer to remind us of the importance of coming before God and sharing what's on our hearts. More importantly, though, I am struck by what a privilege it is to come before Him any time for any reason. To have a constant ear and source of comfort whenever we need it.

I read this verse hourly, for a while, when I was pregnant; I posted it so that reading it became part of my daily routine. It's ingrained in me forever, I think, due solely to the number of times I found strength and peace from its words.

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
-Philippians 4:6-7 (emphasis mine)

What a reminder of the power of prayer and the peace that comes with it. I hope we can all feel that power and peace today. Happy Thursday, all!

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