Dear friends,
Welcome to week three of BMW, Be My Witnesses. Last week we asked Mary to be with us as we pray and especially as we seek the assistance of the Holy Spirit. This week let us reflect on praying with and for another.
Recently, I was at a pharmacy sitting and waiting my turn to be served. Next to me was a gentleman who began a conversation. He revealed that he had suffered for years from diabetes and was there for some updates. He noted that he had the ports for his daily testing, something which had made his life easier. After awhile, I asked him if he would like me to say a prayer. After his consent, I thanked God for the many advances in treating diabetes which had allowed him to be there on that day and for God’s continued presence to him.
Many people ask me to pray for them and in the past my general approach was to agree to do so. Then I would forget and so a regular part of my daily prayer is for all those who have asked me to pray for them. However, in recent years, my approach has changed. Rather than waiting for later, I ask the person if I might pray right there and then. This has proven a great blessing. And anyone can do this as long as the person gives permission.
The Prophet Samuel, who reluctantly agreed to help the people obtain a king, promised to keep praying for them to be good subjects and added, “Far be it from me to sin against the Lord by ceasing to pray for you and to teach you the good and right way” (I Samuel 12:23). As in this situation, sometimes our prayers are for folks who seem to be going down the wrong path. Samuel was clear that his first recourse was to prayer. So must it be with us. God can do what we cannot do. This can be seen even when Jesus tells us to pray for our persecutors (Mt 5:44). There is little else we can do in that or in many other situations.
I addition, however, we also are always to pray with others. Jesus gave us the Our Father as a prayer which makes no sense unless it is said in communion with others. In fact, Jesus made the point that “where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them: (Mt 18:20). Actually praying with someone else can be a real source of strength to that person, perhaps even a bearing of his burdens (Galatians 6:2).
Praying with and for one another is the very nature of Christian prayer. Even when we sit alone in our homes, our prayer is always with and for others.
So, for this week’s challenge grab an opportunity to pray for someone while you are with that person. Do so charitably and with the person’s permission. And if you might be so bold, ask that person then to pray for you.
Until next week, may God Bless you.
I am sincerely yours in Christ,
+ Earl Boyea
Bishop of Lansing
P.S. Below is a video version of this week's Be My Witnesses. Please do share with family and friends. Thank you. God bless you.