I wrote this last year after we got word of the crisis in Afghanistan. It came across my “memories” on Facebook and I haven’t been able to stop coming back to it. I’m ashamed to say: I wrote what is below, I prayed, and I moved on with my comfortable life.
I can say with unfortunate confidence that since the Lord gave me these words, I have settled into my charmed American soil, and I have allowed myself to forget the hurt of my brothers and sisters, not just in the Middle East, but all around the globe.
Father, may these words you impressed on my heart, even a year ago, fall fresh and new today. Stir our hearts, Jesus, to pray for those who are persecuted for Your name’s sake. Help us to remember. Bring them to the forefront of our minds in prayer. Lord, bless them and keep them. Replace spirits of fear with sound minds. May the hope of eternity begin to billow out of empty cups. Bring supernatural rest to weary and worn souls. In the precious name and the binding blood of Jesus, we pray. AMEN!
I woke up this morning in my warm bed, in my safe house to my healthy husband and baby boy excited to start our day. Sunshine peeked through the curtains almost as if to say, "good morning!"
We walked downstairs singing "Rise and Shine and give God the glory, glory!" all smiles as we ate some yummy breakfast and danced to an episode of Silly Songs with Larry.
But in all of the sweetness and the singing and the dancing, my stomach couldn't help but turn. My mind couldn't help but wander across the Pacific.
For so many millions safety was not the reality of this morning.
Instead—Death. Dread. Panic. Terror. Gut hollowing havoc.
Words cannot begin to bear the weight.
The mama weeping. Overcome by the unknown. Grieving the future of her babies.
Wonderful Counselor, overwhelm her with your peace.
The husband wearing a strong face to lead his family, knowing there is nowhere to go.
Way Maker, direct his steps.
The pastor preparing for his last moments earth side. Readying himself for Glory. What a faith.
Alpha and Omega, Beginning and End, may your will be done.
The wife of the fallen US Soldier who gave all for what now feels like nothing.
Almighty Healer, do not allow a root of bitterness to grow.
Immanuel, our advocate. Yahweh. Jehovah Yireh, if we ever needed You it is now.
Raise our arms in battle.
Raise up a holy nation.
Remind Your people that we are the head and not the tail.
Above and not below.
Revive our hearts, Father.
Be close in the throes of chaos.
Protect your children.
Hide us behind the cross.
Gift us bold faith.
Blessed as we come.
Blessed as we go.
Give us a heavenly burden for souls.
Break our hearts for what breaks yours.
My heart aches deeper and wider than I could ever pen to paper.
Maranatha.
