"In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans." Romans 8:26 NIV
Each Friday morning, the Brockton clergy meet on Zoom for one hour for a prayer meeting. Every other week we are joined by the mayor. We pray for the needs of the community, our leaders, and the needs of our churches. During those meetings, I have heard some beautiful prayers, not just the language but the honesty and intensity of these conversations offered to God.
I am willing to guess, though, that most of us are not totally comfortable in praying aloud. It's not that we are embarrassed by our faith or by what we have to say, but we are uncomfortable in how it sounds to others. In today's scripture, we are encouraged that we need not be concerned with the beauty of the language of our prayers -- they can be wordless groans, and the Holy Spirit will intercede for us. What matters is the honesty and sincerity of this dialogue between God and us.
Dear God, we come before you today, not really knowing what to say. You are majestic, pure, and holy, and we stand in your awe. Thank you for your love, forgiveness, understanding, and care. There are so many things to pray for that we cannot remember them all. We know that you answer prayer and ask for your help with all the concerns of our hearts. Help us today to be a witness to others. Amen
Blessings!
Pastor Tim
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