James, the fifth chapter: The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth for the space of three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit.
Lord, there are many afflicted here, in body, mind, and soul. You command them to pray, and so we come before your throne with our petitions. Those hurt in body are the easiest to spot and the easiest to remember before You. We pray for Whitney Maier and Karen Christiansen, as they deal with bodies under our weary curse. We pray for those dealing with long-suffering, such as the Berglunds and Snells,
We pray for those wounded in mind, and those who faithfully care for them morning and night. It is an often thankless and fearful task, but you see all. Give them your comfort, and help us to give them ours.
And we pray for those with wounded souls, an invisible crowd without number. Be with those who desire to be married; they walk a lonely path. Be with Pastor Wilson and the brothers in Brazil as they minister to the hungry there, and grant them your protection. Be with the presidents and headmasters of all the schools in our area, as they mold—knowingly or unknowingly—immortal souls and their desires. We particularly ask for your wisdom for President Merkle as he decides how to deal with our petty city officials. And we pray that the Christ Church Hall would be finished soon, so that our community may grow and take root and flourish and testify. For he who converts a sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and hide a multitude of sins. So we ask all this and more, most boldly.
Amen
Petitions, King's Cross, Sept. 22, A.D. 2024
