I just got back from Church a little while ago. That is, the Memorial Presbyterian Church here in Rochester, NY.
I have been attending Service there for the last month, but didn't make it last week. When I arrived this morning I was greeted with such love and concern. Because I'm new to the Church, and they know of whence I came and the ensuing struggle, they prayed for me, and last week I could feel that they were.
I don't think I ever fully believed in the power of prayer, but I'm fast advancing. The power of the Power of Prayer is that it is Spiritual armament for the person who Prays, and for the person the Prayer is prayed for. The purpose of Prayer is to stengthen all that is inside of us that yearns for Our Creator; to steel us in preparation of tribulation, and to enliven our hearts with gratitude for whatever Our God will bestow.
I am blown away by the Christian love these people and the wonderful Pastor have shown me. Caring for my welfare, as a Shepherd ought. It's exceedingly humbling and comforting to me.
In light of my reassessment of the Power of Prayer, if you wouldn't mind and if you remember, can you say a prayer for my Mom? Two nodules were found on her thyroid, and as such will have to be removed. I will be taking her to Roswell tomorrow, for some pre-op tests. She'll be 74 this Easter Sunday, and Praise God, is in pretty decent health, otherwise.
The difficulty in my Mom's upcoming surgery lies in the fact that this enlarged thyroid is pressing against one of her vocal chords, thereby paralyzing it. It is possible that she will not regain the use of her voice. The thought of not being able to hear that beautiful voice of hers that called my name these near 50 years, is painful. So, please pray also for Our Lord to guide the skill and precision of those marvellous creations of His, known as doctors, who will be performing the surgery.
You'll have to forgive my rambling. I'm a recluse but yet a talker, and fellowship is good.
On a final note, I want to thank God for the blessed St. Paul who brought The Gospel to us Gentiles, and I also want to thank God for the blessed John Calvin, who with the same zeal and fervor, many centuries later made the Gospel available and accessible to millions such as myself. God's blesings to all of you and to all on this thread.
Sounds like God has led you to a wonderful "wee kirk of the glen." 8~)
"...the Power of Prayer is that it is Spiritual armament for the person who Prays, and for the person the Prayer is prayed for. The purpose of Prayer is to stengthen all that is inside of us that yearns for Our Creator; to steel us in preparation of tribulation, and to enliven our hearts with gratitude for whatever Our God will bestow."
Amen, and beautifully-said.
I'll pray for your mom's swift and full recovery, AG, knowing she's in His hands.
"Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy reward." -- Isaiah 58:8
Thank you for your kind words of encouragement. I would be honor to pray for your mother as I'm sure the rest of us would. May God watch over her and your family during this difficult time granting you His peace, love and mercies.
Sorry for my delay, AlbionGirl. Prayers have been sent up from here for both your mother and for you. You are a wonderful witness for the power of prayer and how it matters so much. God Bless you and your family.