By Kerstin Jeske of Oslo, Norway

Are any among you suffering? They should pray. Are any cheerful? They should sing songs of praise. Are any among you sick? They should call for the elders of the church and have them pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord.

Let us pray for one another. This makes me think immediately of the well-known hymn in our hymnal with the same title. Growing up I have learned to play the songs in our hymnal on the harmonium from an older church member. This song was one I liked especially well. There was a nice flow in both the melody and the words.

The first thought that comes to mind with the phrase “let us pray for another” is that we need to pray for another person when she is in need. That is also the beginning of today’s scripture. But the very next point is, “Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs for praise.” I am an advocate for those kinds of prayers. They are often neglected.

Sharing of joys and concerns is an important part of our services and of our church life in general. I love that we share internationally as “Community of Hope and Joy”! That someone takes the time to send a mail to international church leaders sharing information about a new life that is born or a life that is lost. In our hymn, stanza 3 also talks about “when the people of all nations sense the challenge of this hour.” It is wonderful to be connected in this way with people of all nations in the church, to celebrate and to mourn together.

Often people, me included, think “sharing joys and concerns” isn’t really an important part of the worship service, and it is “just warming up,” especially when there are no “real” concerns shared, but only joys or achievements. It took me a while before I understood that this is the real thing. This is when real life is shared and when it is important to listen carefully to be able to help others, carrying their joys and concerns, upholding each other in prayer and becoming a real community—a Community of Christ!

Prayer Phrase

“Love your neighbor as yourself” (Romans 13:9).

Spiritual Practice

Healing for Broken Spirits

Begin with quiet prayer. Ask God to help you detect some “sore places” in the body of Christ and God’s creation. Become aware of people who feel separated, wounded, or left out. Reflect on or write a short journal entry of healing words to at least one person who comes to mind. Ask God for words that will touch this person’s broken spirit like healing ointment. Keep this person in your heart and prayers today and act on any ideas that come to bring blessing and wholeness.

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.