As more and more churches are moving towards virtual services online, I am reminded of the mystical union of the church through prayer. We know that in prayer, we are connected with God. But did you know that when we pray, we are connected with the church in all times and in all places? It brings a sweet comfort to me to know that statistically, whenever we pray, there is another Christian lifting their prayer to God. We pray with them in one Spirit. In this way, even though we may be isolated at home, we know that we are never alone.

Thanks be to God that even when the doors of the church are closed, the church is gathered together in one Spirit!

The link below is an album by Sandra McCracken which is based on the Psalms. This album has been one of my favorites for meditation and reflection. I especially encourage you to listen to Psalm 42. “Put your trust in God, I will yet give thanks to Him, my help, my God”.

Yours In Christ,

Veronica

Prayer for the World:

Glory to You, O Lord, Creator of us all, through Whom we have life and salvation. We give You thanks for Your Son, Jesus Christ, Our Lord, Who on the cross overcame death, and by His glorious resurrection brought immortal life to light. Draw near to us, Lord, and hear us as we cry to You. Be near to the sick and vulnerable, and with all who provide care. Grant wisdom to all leaders in the government and in Your church as we discern how we must act in the coming days. Comfort us with Your Holy Spirit and renew us in the gift of prayer that we would walk with You each day. We pray for children and students in our community, for teachers and schools, parents and caregivers. We pray for our elderly members in homes and alone. Even in isolation, Lord, may we find new avenues for connection in the church. Great Healer of the Nations, bring Your spirit of healing into every body which has been affected, into every cell. Protect the vulnerable and the weak. We are asking for a miracle, for new discoveries and research, to bring about a cure. And we remember, Lord God, all who suffer in other ways, in mind, body, or Spirit. May Your healing hand be upon them. Strengthen the spirits of all who gather in prayer and restore us to health, that we may be Your church and do every good work which You have prepared for us to do. Amen.