Prayer Tip--Later
Daily Scripture
Matthew 9:18-22 (NRSV)
While he was saying these things to them, suddenly a leader of the synagogue came in and knelt before him, saying, ‘My daughter has just died; but come and lay your hand on her, and she will live.’ And Jesus got up and followed him, with his disciples. Then suddenly a woman who had been suffering from haemorrhages for twelve years came up behind him and touched the fringe of his cloak, for she said to herself, ‘If I only touch his cloak, I will be made well.’ Jesus turned, and seeing her he said, ‘Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.’ And instantly the woman was made well.
Daily Reflection & Prayer
I don’t have that many things I consider myself to be good at. There is one thing that I’ve learned and taken into myself that has blessed me more than any other thing. I’ve learned, over the years, to be patient in prayer.
When we look at the stories of Jesus performing miracles on the spot, it’s easy to slip into “Great. Jesus healed that person right on the spot, and I’ve been praying for healing, but I’m still in pain.” I can’t pretend to know why prayers are answered the way they are. I can only say that we are promised that God hears our prayers, and that prayer isn’t a wish list, or marching orders for the Holy Spirit. Prayer is connecting with God, a gift so that we are not ever in this life alone.
Lately, I’ve been struggling with the madness and pain in the world and praying for love to be the driving force. Sometimes, I am frustrated because that doesn’t seem to be happening at all, even in the lives of people who know and love God. Even in my own life.
Then, I see this Psalm, written in the front of my Bible a long time ago:
I believe that I shall see the goodness
of the Lord in the land of the living.
Wait for the Lord; be strong,
and let your heart take
courage:
Wait for the Lord!
(Psalm 27:13-14)
Prayer
Lord who holds life and time, help me wait for your perfect timing and your perfect, loving will. When I am frustrated, show me your promises, send me someone to pray with, and surround me with a strong sense of your presence. Amen.
GPS Insights
Jennifer Creagar
This week's Prayer Tip is by Jennifer Creagar, who serves as the Community Assistance Coordination Director in Resurrection's Congregational Care Ministry. She is married and loves spending time with her family, and she enjoys writing and photography.
