Making Your Requests Known

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

As you may know, I've been spending a lot of time in Washington, D. C. over the last 12 months.  It was a year ago that I led worship and sang in the first weekly worship services to be held in the United States Capitol in 144 years.  These services known Capitol Worship are for members of Congress, spouses, staff and others who work on Capitol Hill. I believe this has been a divine appointment for me to be there, to lead in worship and serve those in such strategic positions of leadership.  In the past year, I have made 17 trips to the Capitol and I am hoping to make eight more trips in the Fall if I have the support.

During the day before the worship service, I walk the halls meeting and praying with Senators, members of Congress and those who work there.  As I walk the halls of the House and Senate offices I am amazed by the number of people in the halls trying to get into even a bit of time pleading for their cause or initiative.  It is not unusual to see a group of five or six, or even 30 people wearing pins or badges or carrying placards promoting their cause.  Sometimes they are even chanting or singing their slogans in an attempt to make their voice heard.  There are almost always protestors on the steps of the Supreme Court attempting to bring attention to their cause.

Several weeks ago I walked into a Congressional office and was face to face with my friend, the Congressman.  I said, "I'm here to pray for you."  He responded, "Do it fast before I kill someone."  He was kidding but it was obvious that he was dealing with some significant issues.  I said a brief prayer and was on my way.  I wasn't there to ask anything of him but to be an encouragement to him.  When I returned the following week, he said, "It worked.  I didn't kill anyone." That might seem inconsequential to some, but our elected officials are under intense pressure and they need God's people to be praying.

As I see folks walking the halls trying to get something from their elected officials, I often think of the verse from Philippians chapter four.  These people are approaching those who have power in our nation, but we can approach God Almighty, the ruler of the universe and make our requests known.  There is no middle man and we can go directly to the top with our needs and our requests.  We are not to be anxious and we are promised God's peace.  

Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16

Steve

"Pray For A Stranger Every Day"

I’m considering starting a new movement.  It’s called “Pray For A Stranger Every Day.”

Without really trying, I seem to find myself launching into prayer with total strangers.  Sometimes it will happen at the end of a phone call with a airline reservations person or someone with my cellular provider when before saying goodbye, I’ll ask, “How can I pray for you?”  Typically, people are shocked and don’t know what to say.  If they don’t have a specific request, I just begin praying for God’s provision in their life, for their finances, health and relationships.

When I close, I find that there is silence and then a sincere, “Thank you.”  Even folks that don’t believe in God seem to be moved.  And or course, even if they don’t believe in God, God believes in them.

So try it.  Whether is it on the phone or at the check out stand, or in some other totally obscure place, ask the person what you could pray for.  Even if they say, “Nothing,” start praying.

We may never know the outcome but we don’t have to.  We are called to love God and love others and what might seem to be random prayers are most likely divine appointments.

“Into the Fire”

One of my favorite songs to sing is Into the Fire from the Broadway musical, “The Scarlet Pimpernel.”  This song comes at the beginning of the musical as the English nobleman, Sir Percival Blakeney asks others to join him in battle.  It is a stirring and rousing battle cry that contains a strong spiritual message that can encourage believers to go into the fire.

Recently, Kristine and I were discussing some of the challenges we face and how it is like going into the fire.  Each of us in different ways encounter opportunities to charge into battle and challenge forces of evil whether in the physical or spiritual realms.  As believers, we are aware that the real battles of life take place in the heavenly realms as forces of light confront forces of darkness.  It requires strength and courage.

It is especially hard to charge into battle when surrounded by an enemy.  Circumstances can be overwhelming and even paralyzing.  Our responsibility as friends and fellow believers is to provide support and cover for those going into battle and encourage them in the midst of the fight.

If you know someone who is in a battle, be there to provide not only prayer cover, but whatever type of assistance they need to the best of your ability.  If they just need someone to sit with them quietly, sit with them.  If they have financial challenges and you have the means to help, help them.  If they need transportation, give them a ride.  If they need repairs done to their home or car, grab a hammer or wrench.

We are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus and march with them into the fire.

Steve

Dallas Willard–A Life Well Lived

My friend, Dallas Willard died on Wednesday, May the 8th.  Dallas was a man of towering intellect but humble heart.  To read one of Dallas’ books requires one’s full attention and concentration.  His writings define the word deep.  At the same time, I can recall times of standing on the sidewalk admiring the floats in the Pasadena Rose Parade and chatting casually about simple things.  Dallas’ wife, Jane, is equally profound in her own gifts.  Both have contributed greatly to countless lives.

A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to sit with Dallas and sing some hymns.  It was a sacred moment that I will treasure.  It is especially meaningful know that Dallas is singing at the Throne.  As my father would say, “Dallas caught a glimpse of heaven, and it took his breath away.”

If you are interested in thinking deeply, read one of Dallas’ great books.  He has left a legacy of a life well lived.