Intergenerational Prayer - Try It Some Time!

Just last night we hosted a low-key National Day of Prayer event at CPC. With all that is going on in the nation at this time, I needed refreshment in the Truth that God is in control of His world. As I look back on the time we spent together the more encouraged I am about the outlook for our community, both locally and nationally.
Of the twenty-three people that gathered to pray, there were 16 people over 18 yrs and 7 people under 18 yrs. old. Two of the older people had recently turned 18 so they kind of count with the 'younger group'. :-)

Dan Halley led the event that we ended up calling 'PRAY and play'.

Our prayer time was segmented into six categories. We began with our focus directed to the God who hears the cries of His children - His sovereignty, omnipotence, goodness, faithfulness, etc. In the safety of His presence and with the promises of Christ in view we moved to the second segment titled simply 'personal' where participants (young and older alike) confessed sin and pleaded the mercy of God. Then we interceded for various needs: those of our local church (transition - both staff and facility were in view, but also the need for all our ministries to be saturated with the good news of Christ crucified, buried and raised for sinners), our local community (schools, work, outreach opportunities), our nation (the executive, legislative and judicial branches our of government), and finally we prayed with a global emphasis (praying for the persecuted church and various missionary efforts).

After the time of prayer about 3/4 of us moved upstairs to the gym where some enjoyed informal conversations while others played a very serious volleyball tournament. One team actually one 2 out of the 3 games and they were very happy about that, but wouldn't dream of taking the opportunity like a pastor's blog to gloat over the wins. :-)

I wanted to write and convey some of my encouragement by being a part of this event. My heart was gladdened by participating in the time of prayer with my generation as well as the next generation. Being in the same room with those who will likely see more of the fruit of our prayers in the years to come than I will, I was challenged to pray more fervently for the nation and to plead with God to bring about renewal and revival.
I trust we will do something similar to this again. If we do, I will look for you there. Hopefully, we won't wait until the next annual Day of Prayer!
Pastor Tim