Tuesday, March 8, 2022
“Pray for Five Minutes”
Okay, aside from last Friday’s Challenge to eat something green, this has to be the easiest challenge of the entire Lenten Season. Pray for five minutes. Even those who don’t usually pray to God should be able to comply with this, given the incredible suffering experienced by our brothers and sisters in Ukraine and surrounding countries. For those of us who are thousands of miles removed from the horrible situation, the least we can do is pray at least 5 minutes today for everyone in harm’s way.
I know…“it’s political”. No, that’s not true. Saying a prayer for someone ain’t political, nor does it infer that someone must be a person of great faith in order to say a prayer. God hears the words and knows the hearts of all people, even those who don’t believe.
Today’s challenge is not about what we believe or don’t believe. Today’s challenge is about looking outside of ourselves and seeking support, goodwill, and safety for the world in which we live. Oh, and one more important note that many people may not realize: Prayers directed to God from places of anger, hatred, sorrow, and disbelief are also welcome. God knows the pain…even better than us.
“Pray for Five Minutes”
“Do all this in prayer, asking for God’s help. Pray on every occasion, as the Spirit leads. For this reason keep alert and never give up; pray always for all God’s people.” (Ephesians 6:18, Good News Translation)
