You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains. – Matthew 24:6-8
The disciples had just asked Jesus for signs pointing to His second coming, and He said there would be wars, terrorism, famines and earthquakes. I don’t know of anyone who is ever prepared for things like that. But Jesus seemed to indicate, however, that whether we like it or not, until He comes again, there will be those things happening all over the world. He also said there would be no peace until He comes again.
Today is the National Day of Prayer all across America. Over 40,000 groups will gather to pray somewhere in our great country and even around the world. One of the prayer points will be for our Military and First Responders and others who are in harm’s way every day. I’m talking about those valiant people whose mission is to keep us safe and help us in time of desperate need and catastrophes. So let’s make it a point to pray for our Military, Police, Fire Department personnel, ambulance drivers, paramedics, doctors, nurses and all medical personnel who are there to help save our lives. Let’s do that today.
Father, we pray for those who are in our armed forces, first responders and all the groups named above. Lord, let them know that you love them with an everlasting love. Assure them that you will be there for their families while they are away and responding to the needs of others.
Father, we pray that you will rescue them and protect those who are in harm’s way. Keep them alert and well trained but more importantly, keep them close to your heart and presence. Lord, teach our men and women in the military and first responders how to pray so they can experience your peace. Please bring them home safely.
Jesus, we pray that the children of military and first responder families would learn how to trust in you as well, and believe in your Name. We pray for the wives whose husbands are far away. Keep their love and marriages strong.
And Father, teach every military family, and those of us who stand by their sides, to be strong and courageous by trusting in You. Help them not to be afraid, by helping them to believe in your promises that you will never leave them alone. And Lord Jesus, you told us to pray for our enemies as well. We ask that you would open up the eyes that have been blinded by the evil one, that they may see the glory of Christ.
Let’s thank God for those who are there to help us in time of critical need. Maranatha!
Pastor Don
