I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
1Timothy 2:1
The measure of a Christian is not in the height of his grasp but in the depth of his love. -- Clarence Jordan
"You are a Christian, would you pray for my children?" she inquired. Turning around I was shocked to see her standing there. "Who am I?" I thought.
"Why is she asking me? Do I exemplify being Christlike? I fall short so much. I do too much I feel to turn others away. God if You can use me to help her, then use me." was my thoughts as I struggled for the words to speak. I consider it a great honor and responsibility for someone to ask you out of everybody else to pray for them. "Lord, I'm not any kind of clergy. Not even a deacon. Yet, something of you Jesus shone through. And hid my shortcomings." These words reflected in my mind. I sputtered with my words at first."Yes, I will gladly pray for them," I remarked. She told me of a son in prison and another one living with his father. Her and her husband were separated, and he had died. She wanted prayer for her children's protection and comfort. As soon as this was said she walked off without a word except,"Thank you." She works another shift so I only see her from time to time. I bowed my head immediately then and prayed for all this. But, most importantly for all their souls.
God as I contemplate on this event, I send up this stumbling man's prayer.
"O precious Savior and Redeemer,
Help me to be your voice to those that hurt.
Let me be your tender touch to those suffering.
Allow me to hold out hope to the hopeless.
Grant me the ability to offer peace to those trapped in the chaos of this world.
To shine your light in the darkness without my failings obstructing it.
Use my hands and feet as an instrument in your melody of mercy.
May your Holy Spirit lead me where I need to go, not where my carnal mind wants to go.
Amen."
by
Lance Gargus
at
www.lancessoulsearching.com
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