A Matter of Prayer
// May 2nd, 2011 // 8 Comments » // prayer
While preparing for prayer with prayer partners last night, I glanced at my iPad and saw an alert from CNN that said, “Osama bin Laden reportedly killed.” As this news was confirmed, it certainly affected the content of our prayers.
For months we have been feeling that something unpleasant was on the horizon. In fact, one kept getting a sense of “take cover” as we interceded for the nations of the world. Because the Spirit often communicates through visions and images and metaphors and impressions and feelings, it is not always easy to discern the specific matter that calls us to prayer. I am not sure that the killing of Osama bin Laden is the event we anticipated in the spirit. Still, the news of the killing of Osama bin Laden does give us pause.
We have to stop to pray and think deeply about what this killing means for the “war on terrorism,” for our relations with our sisters and brothers in other nations, for the safety of travelers overseas and so forth. The list of possible areas of ramifications goes on and on.
As I watched and saw the crowd gathering outside the White House, I grew even more concerned. What does it mean when people in our country openly celebrate the killing of an enemy? What should be done to mark such a significant event? Should there be actually jubilant celebrations? I have to admit that a shudder went through me when I heard the news. The feeling was not one of joy. I keep feeling the admonition, “Be sober…” This is not a time for celebration. This is a time to be still.
The Apostle Paul says to us in Romans 12:18, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” It is important to remember that this instruction follows that great command, that we “be not conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of [our] minds that we may demonstrate the will of God – good, acceptable and perfect.”
Certainly, this age celebrates war, death and the spoils of war. However, we have been called to another, higher way of living and thinking. We have been called to be watchful in all things (2 Timothy 4:5). Jubilation, I think, is not the emotion suited to this occasion. We must remain prayerful.
Before the news last night, our attention was planted elsewhere:
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Yesterday, Middle Tennessee residents observed the one year anniversary of the epic flooding that claimed lives and property. Many who were displaced last year are still hoping to be restored.
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While we observed this anniversary, our sisters and brothers in several parts of the southern United States have suffered the effects of severe weather including deadly tornadoes. Over 350 people have lost their lives. The estimates of the material damages are not yet in.
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The world is still reeling from the Tsunami in Japan.
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Our Haitian brothers and sisters are still struggling to survive the lasting effects of the earthquake that struck there January 12, 2010.
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Crises abound all over the Middle East: Egypt, Yemen, Libya.
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Other African countries are in upheaval including Sudan, The Ivory Coast, Liberia as it struggles to handle refugees from other countries and Zimbabwe
These words from the Negro Spiritual speak to this moment in our time: “There is trouble all over this world.” But, there is another verse that demonstrates the firm-resolve of our forebears which we must seize as our own: “Ain’t gonna lay my ‘ligion down!” So, the trouble that we see throughout the world today is not a cause for despair but a call to prayer. No matter what, we must accept God’s invitation to us to join Him in healing this war-torn world through prayer and, when we have clear divine direction, decisive action that makes for peace.
Join me for a time of prayer and reflection tonight at 9:00 pm cst by calling: 641-798-4200 access code: 7364954#. This is a matter of urgency.
Share your thoughts and concerns with me by leaving a comment below.
I’m writing this after returning from the gym. Worked out with my trainer today 