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Prayer

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18  

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.


This picture helps me to remember the importance of prayer. Not only is it a vital way for me to communicate with my heavenly Father but I'm modeling the importance of such relationship to the children that spend their days with me. 


Years ago I dreamed of being on the mission field of some exciting foreign land. I was humbled when He revealed to me that my interest in foreign lands may just have been more important to me then following His will. He also taught me that He can use me in my own backyard. He uses me in simple, everyday ways as I demonstrate His love, in the words that I use to tell the children how special they are to Jesus, and by leading the children in daily prayer. 

Our daily lunch time prayer is, "Come, Lord Jesus, be our guest. Let this food to us be blessed." Nothing earth-shattering, just simple enough for the children to grasp the concept of prayer. The other day I asked the kids if they knew what the "be our guest" meant. I told them that we were asking Jesus to be HERE. To be present with us. One little girl, wide-eyed in excitement, exclaimed, "Jesus is HERE? (points to empty seat next to her) Like sitting right there?" After explaining that Jesus is always with us, that he loves us and wants to spend time with us, the same girl covered her heart and with enthusiasm said, "Well, God is here! I have God in my heart!" That, my friends, is sweet music to my ears. 

The above picture is not "staged" and the girls weren't told to pray. After saying our lunch prayer together, these two girls decided to keep praying their own silent prayer (something my son does every day). Precious. My heart swells at this sight and as I serve lunch I have my own silent prayer.  "Lord, keep these children close to you. May they grow to love you and serve you. May they know you, REALLY KNOW YOU. May they know your grace and may they tell others of your love." 

I am thanking God for teaching me to serve where ever HE calls me. My calling right now is to serve my family and those around me. Maybe someday I'll be teaching children in Africa but today I'm teaching children in my small community and it's a good place to be. 


May you find peace right where God has placed you today. For "I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord...." It's all in His hands. 

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