Prayer

When life gets difficult it’s easier for me to find time to pray. Funny how that works. I’m trying to be more intentional about prayer. When people ask me to pray for them or someone they love I want to ACTUALLY pray for them. I want my prayers to be thoughtful and consistent, not just when they are convenient. But you know what, God still hears my prayer no matter the circumstance. He knows my needs and he hears even the faintest cry. But he really loves when we talk to him. He loves when we ask for his help, when we admit that we can’t do it on our own.

The other day I was talking about community and I think prayer and community go hand-in-hand. I want to live a prayerful life within my community. Not only do I want to intercede to God on behalf of my friends and family but I want to share openly with my community about my needs, pains, struggles and heartache. We are to rejoice with one another but also cry and grieve with one another. It’s not weak to ask for help. Especially asking for help beyond a prayer. Prayer is powerful and can move mountains but the small actions of love and kindness can speak louder than any eloquent word.

I don’t want the phrase “I’m praying for you.” to be an excuse to do nothing. I want to actually spend time interceding on your behalf. I want to stand beside you and fight or weep or rejoice. I want to offer tangible support. Bring you a meal. Watch your kids. Donate my time. Give of my resources. When I say “I’m praying for you” I want you to know that I’m there with you… a physical representation of the way God is there with you.

I’m currently praying for my sister-in-law, my brother and their family. They are facing a really hard medical diagnosis and tough decisions. I’ve been praying and even though I can’t be with them physically through it all (they live in another state) I am looking for ways to support them. I’m sharing their story so others can pray, encourage them and give.

I want to be intentional about prayer. I want to be intentional about loving my community. I want to be the hands and feet of Jesus.