Getting Refreshed
Have you ever asked anyone to pray for you?
I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in earnest prayer to God on my behalf, that I may be rescued from the unbelievers in Judea, and that my ministry to Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints, so that by God's will I may come to you with joy and be refreshed in your company. - Romans 15:30-32
Have you noticed how people use social media to request help for those they love?
Among all the selfies and political slams we find small gems, like inspirational quotes to help us make it through the day and requests for prayers.
In today's reading, Paul sends his request via messenger, albeit the old fashioned way. It will take much longer for his request to be heard, but what he started we continue here and everywhere on the Internet.
Help me to come to you and be refreshed, he says. It is not just the prayer that will heal him, but the visit as well.
What that tells me is we all need each other as much as we need God.
Paul reminds us of our need to be refreshed in each other's company. How cool is that?
It is especially important in times like these when we are bombarded by news of evil and violence against innocent children. We need each other. We need a renewal of faith in each other. And we can only get that by coming together with love.
Paul needed a hug. The world needs a hug.
Let the leaders argue over the best way to stop the senseless acts, while we seek God's help in overcoming our fears to make it into each other's arms.
That is my prayer for all. May God get me safely into the arms of a friend so that I may be refreshed and renewed.
For it is only through love that we can overcome evil and live.
God help us all.
More to come...