By Jane Gardner of Lee’s Summit, Missouri USA
First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all who are in high positions, so that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and dignity. This is right and is acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
In September 2001, I had a long road trip planned with many stops along the way for ministry of various kinds. Ahead of my travels, I prepared classwork, sermons, stories, songs, and prayed over the upcoming interactions.
As I drove to work on the morning of September 11, I heard a news report on the radio about the terrorist attack on the New York City World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and the plane that was diverted to Pennsylvania. It was incomprehensible. While I may have felt some fear, I remember an overwhelming sense of sadness for the loss of peace in the world.
I left that day on the trip and, of course, everywhere I went the events of that Tuesday morning were the topic. I found myself often suggesting that we offer prayer for those impacted by the tragedy, the victims, the perpetrators, and for our world.
When Sunday came, I pulled out my prepared notes. The lectionary scripture was from 1 Timothy 2. As I read it again, I was astounded by the serendipity of what Timothy offered and its direct application to what we experienced that week: “…pray… [for leaders] and everyone…so that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life….” It was amazing to think that the lectionary developed in 1992 listed that scripture for the Sunday after 9/11.
In Community of Christ, prayer is a prime practice for pursuing peace, on and for the Earth. On further reflection, I realized that Christians all over the world shared in Timothy’s counsel that day. Pray, even if you feel helpless. Pray, even if you are angry. Pray, even if you are fearful. Pray for peace.
Was it really serendipity or the work of Spirit? I choose to believe it was the latter.
Prayer Phrase
“You will be enriched in every way for your great generosity” (2 Corinthians 9:11).
Blessing Walk
As you walk slowly and mindfully around your neighborhood, yard, or house, look around with attentiveness. For every person you see, silently offer a blessing: “May you be surrounded by love.” For places you pass—homes, businesses, churches, shelters—offer a quiet prayer of gratitude or intercession. If walking indoors or unable to move freely, do a “blessing walk” in your mind—imagining those you love or your community and lifting each one in prayer.
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.