Many organizations throughout the world are working to
assist people whose lives have been upended by war, oppression, and natural
disasters. For example, my friend Kate Steger works at the International Rescue
Committee, which delivers aid to people in crisis worldwide and helps resettle
refugees. In the face of all the suffering being experienced by refugees, my own
response—that is, prayers and contacting my elected officials—seems paltry. However,
recently Kate gave me another perspective:
“I’m grateful for the
encouragement and your prayers when you have a chance to include me in them.
The work you do is so important for the world. We shared the experience of
praying for the world at Shantivanam without the direct assurance that it had
any effect. But now that I’m out in the world with all of its troubles and
distractions…I not only know how much the prayers of your community are needed,
but I rely on them to put peace into the world when I can’t find it in myself
or in others. I’m thankful to know there is someone counteracting the turmoil.”
Our daily prayers for those in need
and for peace in our world are more powerful than we realize. They model trust
that God hears the cry of the poor, that creating peace is possible, that we
won’t allow greed and violence to have the last word. Staying faithful to
prayer can be difficult because generally we don’t see the direct results that come
with feeding the hungry and housing the homeless, for example. However, “putting
peace in the world” by cultivating peace within ourselves, offering hospitality
to those who come to our door, and praying for others offers comfort and hope, and
thus can change lives. May all who seek peace and pursue it, whether through
direct care of others or through the ministry of prayer, be blessed with holy perseverance.
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