I reached for the page from the printer, flipping to the back side to determine the length of the prayer list. I was always amazed at the reach our prayer requests had. Not only over multiple states, but countries.
I am part of our church’s prayer team. I have been praying weekly with these ladies for over the past six years. During COVID we could not gather in the same room, but we all learned how to conference call. Many of these “girls” might be nearing 70, yet they navigate technology wonderfully well. We have prayed through our own life obstacles and miracles. We have rejoiced over births and grieved over death. We have sought guidance for families and direction for the church. We have prayed over giving and celebrated over the opening of our food pantry.
Above it all, we have grown closer to God together over the years.
Colossians 1:3-4 says, “We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all God’s people.”
I think of the four other ladies on our prayer team every time I read this verse.
These “girls” have not only witnessed in the pew but also at the grocery store. They have prayed over people in a Sunday School classroom, and in a car before heading into an appointment.
Almost every hour of every day, one of them is up praying. This is evidenced by our group chat text messages. I turn into bed early and then rise early. There are prayers and prayer requests sent at midnight, 1:00, 2:30 and 4:12 greeting me when I awaken.
They love. They love on each other and everyone they meet. And that love is contagious.
Because Christ is the author of that love.
I am beyond blessed to know and pray with all these ladies. I have been incredibly gifted to come alongside them and serve with them.
And yes, I thank God every time I think of them.
While I may be close to a couple decades younger, they are growing me, instructing me, and providing an example of how to love like Jesus. Not just for a day, but as a daily practice.
How about you? Do you have someone or a group of people who come to mind when you read Colossians 1:3-4? We would love to read your inspirations!
And wouldn’t we all love to one day serve as an inspiration to someone else? Let’s pray for Jesus’ help to reflect and direct Jesus’ love to others.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Thank You for providing those who help draw us closer to You. What a blessing indeed to see Your love in action through Your children. Lord, infuse me. Direct me. Grow me. Help me to reflect Your love and serve to inspire others to draw closer to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.