Thursday, May 6, 2010

National Day of Prayer 2010

The National Day of Prayer tradition predates the founding of our country. In 1775, the Continental Congress issued a proclamation setting aside a day of prayer. In 1952, Congress established an annual day of prayer and in 1988, that law was amended designating the first Thursday of May as the National Day of Prayer.

What can you do? If you feel you are just too busy, take a moment to visit Sacred Space. A guided prayer at your computer! If you can find a few more moments, you can find more guidance at the Upper Room.

If you can set aside a special time, try visiting a holy space. It could be a walking path, a seat on a bench or somewhere in your home...it doesn't have to be a church. Some find "prayer tools" helpful...be they a pocket Bible, a hand held cross or prayer beads...these items can make any place special.

Spend your time with God any way you feel led...many use the following:
**Listen in silence for the Holy Spirit to speak.
**Praise God whether it is through song, dance, reciting a poem, a psalm or a hymn.
**Read Scripture with a daily devotional, weekly prayer guide or just open the Bible!
**Talk with God about your life, especially those areas where you need His grace or
forgiveness. But make a it a conversation, don't do all the talking!

During your prayer time, remember to lift up others along with your own special needs or concerns...the military, our leaders, your community, schoolchildren, the elderly or homeless, disaster relief, those suffering in other parts of the world, your church.

Whichever way you choose to do it, spend a few moments on your knees (literally or figuratively) today.

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