Time For a Prayer

Many things ought to get done today. My stack of “to-do” post-it notes has grown and needs to be addressed. There are home tasks to be completed and work to be done to plan for worship and other church-related matters. As I begin to get anxious about all this, that’s when I realize I need to stop for prayer, and then (after this message is finished) take my Friday day off.

Remember to join us for worship on Sunday, Aug. 23 as we continue the series, “What Do These Words Mean?” with some thoughts about “Authority.” Worship here on our website at umcstmarks.org/live-worship, or on Facebook at St. Mark’s UMC, Tucson, or on YouTube at UMC St. Mark’s Oro Valley.

A prayer: Holy One, at this moment I know that somewhere you are comforting those who mourn. Thank you for surrounding them with your tender hand. I know that somewhere people are struggling with illness. Thank you for pouring out your healing power upon them. At this moment you are seeking to work in the hearts of those who are angry and long to lash out at those with whom they disagree. Open those hearts, peeling back the layers of fear, anxiety and stress. Thank you for moving to heal the brokenness of our homes, communities and country. At this moment you are longing to soothe anxieties about so many things – COVID-19, racial tensions, financial worries, upcoming elections, church reopening. Help me turn fully to you for strength, clarity and peace. Your guidance and wisdom is as near as my breath. I breathe it in now as I give myself to you, Holy One. And thank you for rain. Amen.

Please know that we are carefully planning for the eventual reopening of our church buildings. One of our first steps in reopening will be small group worship called “We Gather Together” that will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. This will begin in just a few weeks. Watch for more news.

Blessings,
Sharon