A daily prayer during this COVID-19 crisis for November 9, 2020

November 9, 2020 A daily prayer during this COVID-19 crisis Today’s Prayer

Inspired by 1 Thessalonians 5: 9-11        New Revised Standard Version

 9 For God has destined us not for wrath but for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 who died for us, so that whether we are awake or asleep we may live with him. 11 Therefore encourage one another and build up each other, as indeed you are doing. 2020 has been a year of uncertainty, illness, violence and division. Even nature has seemed to be against us sometimes. As Christians it can still be difficult for us to find the good and positive in these current circumstances. We are not of this world but must be part of it while we are here. We need to look for hope. In this early epistle of Paul’s, he writes to the believers in Thessaloniki about preparing for the day Jesus returns. To be ready, and not be dragged under by the darkness because they are children of the light. As Christ’s followers, we too, are children of the light. Until his second coming, all Christians have the responsibility of comforting and uplifting their brothers and sisters and give them the promise of eternal life. The resurrection of Christ canceled out God’s wrath towards us due to sin. Even in what seems as troubled times, let us not hide our light under a basket, but let it shine for all to see so we may be a source of inspiration and strength to others awaiting better times to come. Dearest Lord, we come to you in this unsettled and confusing season. Enable us to see the good in this world. You say that you are with us in all situations. Help us to feel your presence and to navigate through this year knowing that you have blessings in store for us. Let us be lifted up by our faith in the knowledge that we are your beloved children and that with Christ we stand before you unblemished and have the anticipated gift of life eternal. Like the Thessalonians, help us to be a light. Guide us in helping each other through current tough circumstances, to remember your grace, mercy and love you continuously extend to us. We pray for peace through the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ. Amen. Jan Racca, Certified Lay Servant, First United Methodist Church of Marlboro, Mass.