Whether it be even-keeled smooth sailing or unsteady waters, Americans have long turned to prayer to seek wisdom, demonstrate thankfulness, and discover peace in their lives. Prayer sustains us through uncertainty, grief, and trauma. Prayer allows us a time of reflection, for expressing our hopes, desires, and fears. Prayer offers strength in the face of trials and tribulations, and redemption when we stumble.
On National Day of Prayer, we rededicate ourselves to the culture of prayer and to reconnecting with God.
"Prayer is the key of the morning and the bolt of the evening."
Mahatma Gandhi
Every day, people use the wisdom and revelations gained from prayer to spread kindness and to make our world better. Faith communities in Apopka, in America and globally have helped feed the hungry, heal the sick, and protect innocents from violence. Communities with love and understanding turn to prayer to inspire their work, which embodies a timeless notion that has kept humanity going through the ages -- that one of our most sacred responsibilities is to give of ourselves in service to others.
The threats of poverty, violence, and war around the world are all too real. Our faith and our earnest prayers can be cures for the fear we feel as we confront these realities. Helping us resist despair, paralysis, or cynicism, prayer offers a powerful alternative to pessimism.
Prayer is hope. It’s a conversation with God.
"Never forget the three powerful resources you always have available to you: love, prayer, and forgiveness."
H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
Through prayer, we often gain the insight to learn from our mistakes, the motivation to always be better, and the courage to stand up for what is right, even when it is not popular.
Each of us can be an author in our collective American story, and in participating in our national discourse to address some of our Nation's greatest challenges, we are reminded of the blessing we have to live in a land where we are able to freely express the beliefs we hold in our hearts. We as a praying nation will continue to stand up for those around the world who are subject to fear or violence because of their religion or beliefs. As a Nation free to practice our faith as we choose, we must remember those around the world who are not afforded this freedom, and we must recommit to building a society where all can enjoy this liberty and live their lives in peace and dignity.
On this day, may our faith enable us to sow the seeds of progress in our ever-changing world. Let us resolve to guide our children to embrace freedom for all, to see God in everyone, and to remember that no matter what differences they may have, we will always be united by our common humanity.
Say a prayer for someone you love today, and pray for the United States and for Apopka. Enjoy your time with God.
Happy National Day of Prayer everyone!
"To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing."
Martin Luther
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