Today I want to talk about prayer.  I have had a heavy heart this week thinking about those who are in the hospital or had surgery.  We’ve had a lot in our small congregation.  And we have some pretty strong needs for healing. 

At times we can feel helpless as we watch our loved ones and friends go through challenges.  I have heard this phrase so many times: “all we can do is pray.”  As if it is a last resort.  As if it is just a small thing we can contribute to the situation since it is all in the doctor’s hands. 

But prayer is not a last resort or a minor thing.  It is the ultimate gift we can offer our loved ones.  We have the privilege of prayer!  We have the honor of being able to speak directly to God.  We pray for healing, but we pray for strength and guidance too.  We bring God into the discussion of the future.  We lean into Him as we watch the struggles of our loved ones.  And prayer tells God we are dependent on Him - that we are looking to Him in our darkest hour. 

Prayer should never feel like it's “all we can do.”  Prayer is something we get to do! 

Today - spend time praying specifically over those who are in our congregation who are hurting, who are in the hospital, who are recovering, who are in need.  They will feel that prayer even if they do not realize that is what they are feeling.  Prayer brings hope that we will be surrounded by our Lord. 



Amen!