Have You a Zechariah Moment?

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

“Let the trees of the forest sing for joy.” Ps 96:17      Artist Barbara Whatmough

“Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear. But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John.”  Luke 1:11-13 NIV

Reflection

How often have you prayed and wondered if your prayers have been heard? Maybe the answer to your prayer is not what you expected to hear. Maybe fear stands in the way of you knowing your prayer has been heard and already answered. In a figurative sense try meeting God at the right side of the altar. Breathe deep and release all fears. Receive the assurance that your prayer has been heard. Now boldly go forth and testify. Thank the Still Hearing and Speaking God for hearing and answering all prayers.

Let us pray

Spirit of the Living God fall fresh on me. Call my attention to the many ways you speak to me. Open my ears so I will hear you. Help me to know that you answered my prayer. Open my eyes so I will see the path forward and move according to your will.  I release all fear and I celebrate the joy of your presence in my life. In praise and thanks I pray in my Savior’s name. Amen

 

A Prayer at 1:11 pm

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

Dear Family and Friends,

It’s been more than two years since I have intentionally prayed for you daily at 1:11 pm. While  praying for you, I hoped you were praying with me in spirit at that same moment. I’d like to believe we were praying together. I’m inviting you to sign on and partner with me by enrolling in this blog as a follower. I’d love to hear your comments, testimonies and prayers. Here is the prayer I am inviting you to pray with me at 1:11 pm. daily:

Dear Holy One, 

We come to draw from your Great and Mighty  Fountain and receive your love, comfort and peace. As we “park and pray” today, we thank you for your unconditional love and constant presence.  

We realize that at times we come with a long list of requests without considering your promises or plans for us. We often seek to satisfy our needs instead of considering your desires for us. Lord, we confess our sins and ask for forgiveness.  

Your Holy Word reminds us of your promise to answer our prayers. We are reminded to keep the faith and that you will bless us with the righteous desires of our heart. Loving God, strengthen our faith so our joy may be fulfilled.  

Merciful God, help us master those things in our lives that interfere with our relationship with you and others. Help us to know your presence in tangible ways. Loving God in your presence we find love, peace, comfort, healing, safety, financial security and shelter from the storms in our lives. Almighty
God, bless us abundantly. Bless us while we sleep, while awake, when we talk, walk, live, breathe and have our being. Bless us now, to be still and know that You are God. Bless our going out, our coming in now and always. In Christ’s Name we pray. Amen 

Your name will be added to the Prayer List Page once you sign on as a follower of this blog. Thank you for “parking and praying at 1:11 pm.”
God’s Abundant Blessings,

Pastor Cleo