Why I Pray

It seems like every time I read the news it is more proof of the poor state of our world. As I type this there is devastation and heartache due to an earthquake in Nepal. There is rioting in Baltimore. ISIS is beheading Christians for no other reason than their faith. There are cases before the Supreme Court that will have historical consequences. Furthermore, I talk with and read e-mails from friends that are dealing with loss, sickness, pain, depression, rejection, and more.

I quickly come to realization that I do not have the power to change any of these things on my own. While I can send money to support relief efforts, raise awareness about the issues of the day, and be a listening ear, the reality is I can’t change the circumstances of any of these situations. However, I know a God who can and does. While God does not answer all my prayers as I would like for him to do or in my timing, I do trust that he works all things together for good for those that love him and are called to his purpose (Rom. 8:28).

I am convinced that one of the kindest things we can possibly do for someone is to fervently pray for him or her. I say this because there are so many things I would love to do for people, but I can’t because it is beyond my control and power. I would love to personally rescue the stranded in Nepal, to bring peace to hearts in Baltimore, to change the hearts of ISIS, to give wisdom to the Supreme Court and Congress and the President, to heal the wounds of the past, to heal diseases, to cure depression, to …., but it is beyond my power. However, it is not beyond the power of my God. This is why I pray.

This is why I can look back and see the power of prayer. I can remember evils and injustices from the past that have been dealt with. I can remember tragedies that lead the world to put aside our differences to bring relief. I can remember several friends that doctors said there is little or no hope, but I can call and talk to right now. I can remember those that were so down they could not look up, but now can help others as wounded healers.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote, “Intercessory prayer is the purifying bath into which the individual and the fellowship must enter every day” (Foster 1992, 191). Will you join me in prayer both individually and as a united people?